Angels Fall Softly

I knew Donna Brake, which is to say we were on a few panels together and exchanged ideas in rare conversations. But if you were anywhere near her, somehow, you did know her. Donna was gifted in so many ways. Mostly, she was a world-class human being. Early in her career at WSM-FM. then later as PD for Atlanta's WSB-FM, Donna did even the simple basics elegantly. Her instincts about people and their potential, her exceptional "ear" which she bequeathed many a talent and program director, her help incubating new artists and as importantly, new radio talent, all became the color portrait that defined Donna.

A professional is a person who can do his or her best at a moment when they don't particularly feel like it. Donna always found time and visceral connection with peers and ascending talent.

Pat O'Neill, our long-time colleague and PD/morning ringmaster of the iconic Magic 98 in Madison, remembers Donna as they became friends when Donna opened the door at Donna Brake Promotions. Says Pat: "She was so helpful to me and always gracious in her receptivity. I'll never forget her for what she meant to Magic 98, and to all those she helped along the way."

Speaking of icons, All Access publisher Joel Denver cast back to his early days with Donna. "I knew she was a very special person. We grew to have a deep friendship over the years and when she came to work at R&R, she energized the whole building through her talent, wit and charm."

Expressions of love and accolades come from all compass points: "Donna was made of 100% kindness..." Bob Catania: "Donna was such a close friend, (and 'friend' doesn't come close)."

John Young added "We hired her right out of Middle Tennessee State ... imagine, her first job at WSM!"

Karen Gerson Duncan wrote, "My mentor, my hero, my idol. One in a million, and I was lucky enough to have her as my first radio boss."

Upon Lincoln's passing someone said, "A tree is best measured after it's been cut down." With Donna Brake, none of us needed to wait that long since over her life full-of-days, she touched any of us lucky enough to know her.

Life is filled with little comings and goings ... for everything we take with us, we leave a little bit behind.