Search by Name

Search by Name

William Todd "Toddzilla" Hubbard

William Hubbard Obituary

HUBBARD, WILLIAM TODD "TODDZILLA" - age 47, of Corryton passed away January 23, 2009. Todd was a former radio air personality for Star 102.1 where he was known as "Toddzilla" for the 7-midnight audience. He was a creative, humorous, in-your-face disc jockey who was dedicated to meticulous preparation and on-air presentation. Star 102.1 will pay tribute to Todd on Tuesday, January 27, 2009 featuring memorable sound-bites throughout the day. He was a native Texan and had lived in the Knoxville area for the past 15 years. He was reluctantly forced to retire from his lifetime talent of radio a year ago due to health conditions related to the genetic disease Alpha-1. He is survived by his brother, Gregg Hubbard; and father, Frank Hubbard, both of Texas. He was preceded in death by his mother, Rebecca Hubbard; and grandfather, Frank Hubbard, Jr. The family would like to extend its appreciation to close radio and personal friends Bill Kachur, (mentor), Myrtle Beach; Scott McCarthy, Asheville, NC; Stacie Beal, LaVonda French, & Judy Dyke. Gratitude is also extended to healthcare providers Allison Pulsipher; Fort Sanders Radiology Department--Bobby, Susan, Evelyn, Ken, Pamela; and Jane Totten, Alpha-1 Foundation. Memorial donations may be made on-line at alphaone.org or by mail (donation forms provided on-line) to Alpha-1 Foundation, Attn: Development Office, 2937 SW 27th Avenue, Suite 302, Miami, FL 33133. A memorial service will be held in Texas at a later date.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Knoxville News Sentinel on Jan. 26, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for William Hubbard

Not sure what to say?





Sharon Banfill

February 2, 2009

My besrest friend Mister Z

I will miss you very much. We met on the radio, I was a cotestant and had won. You asked what I was doing and i said playing euchre, and you said oh "Puker". then asked if I ever played email scrabble. I said I didn't have the cd and could only receive turns. So you emailed me a turn and from then on you proceeded to kick my butt for 9 years. We became steadfast friends. whenever I was down I would call and you would say ,I told ya but ya wouldn't listen.haha A part of my heart went with you/ also my husband Robert will miss you. he always said you and i was nuts, and we were. When i get to heaven I will bring the scrabble game. To todd's family our prayers are with you.
I loved you as a friend and Robert loved ya as a bro.
Love Robert and Sharon Banfill

Terrie Knight

February 2, 2009

Todd was absolutely brilliant as a radio personality! I had a chance to know him when he worked with us at WKZL in the Triad of NC for a brief while. He had such a passion for the business, and was very, very good at what he did. He had a tremendous knack for knowing just how to connect with his audience. I wish he had been with our station longer, so that I could have known him more personally. My prayers are with his family, friends, co-workers and listeners as they deal with their loss.

Jeff Jarnigan

February 1, 2009

I consider myself fortunate to have crossed paths with Todd. A tremendous talent, the person most dedicated to show preparation that I have met in over 30 years of radio. Every show was a work of art. Todd was always funny, easy going and truly a good human being and I was honored to call him a friend. The Knoxville radio family lost one of our best when we lost Todd. Rest well Todd. I miss you already.

Danny Ray

January 29, 2009

I had the opportunity to speak with Todd on several occassions throughout his evening DJ spot at 102.1. He was always a great guy to talk with. Never was in a rush to get rid of ya. I recall speaking with em for half an hour one night. He was a great radio personality that seemed so friendly and so full of energy and life. I'll certainly miss the corny jokes he made, the flirtatious comments with callers, and that unique voice. I've recently checked out a few youtube videos he made just to hear it only once more. Your one of a kind bro! GOD BLESS.

Marg Doran

January 29, 2009

I was only friends with Zilla for about 3 years, but I can tell you he was one of the most creative and genuine people I have ever known. He was a great friend to me and I am a better person for knowing him. Gregg, I admire you and know you will be repaid some day for all you did. Zilla, wherever you are, we miss you!

Joey T

January 28, 2009

I was lucky enough to work with Zilla for about 3 years at Journal in Knoxville. I was even luckier to get to know the real dude, who was truly a good guy. I worked the same shift as him and typically we were the only people in the building at the time... which itself brings a level of comradery that I miss so very much. I miss you Todd.

Larry Trotter

January 28, 2009

Consistently professional and real in a business that makes both very difficult at times. A genuinely good guy who was pleasure to know and work with. May God bless his family and friends who miss him.

January 28, 2009

I was so sad to hear of Todd's passing. I am a 61 year old female that listens to Star 102.1 faithfully and would sometime listen to Todd at night and some of his comebacks when listeners were trying to win something were hilarious. He was a true radio personality and it is very sad that he left us so soon but if his pain is erased then I can understand.

Scott McCarthy

January 28, 2009

I had the pleasure of working with Todd at 4 radio stations. I got to know him very well when we did mornings at Power 93 in Greenville,SC. Bill Catcher was PD (one of his other best friends). Toddzilla will always be known for his creative phonebits and for his witty comebacks. He was a perfectionist with his work. He would time out every phonebit to the millisecond. Zilla, we thank you for making us laugh and making us a part of your life. I will always remember you saying, "You-ins gewd people...Preciate yo business and love ya jewlry." You will be missed along with all the merchants where you returned stuff. Hey make sure you get a receipt so you can takes it back cuz. ha ha! Zilla was a true radio talent,a close friend and will be missed but not forgotten.

Joy Brown

January 27, 2009

When Todd and I met in 1984, we became instant friends. Then we reconnected when he returned to SE Texas in 86. He made me laugh more than just about anyone I know. He was the best at what he did. I'm going to miss him. To Gregg and Mr. Hubbard, the world is going to be alot emptier without Todd. Rest well my friend.

Su Kitchel

January 27, 2009

Zilla and I go back to 1997 where I met him at an outdoor concert. We were introduced by another good friend of mine that worked at the same radio station and became good friends. His night time show was always on in our house and you could always hear the echo of laughter from my sons and me. His wit and humor will be missed - his passion for radio will be missed even more. Thanks for the memories, Todd - I'll never forget you!

Jake and Anne

January 27, 2009

Zilla was a one-of-a-kind friend to us.

Zilla was an incredible friend and DJ. I learned so much from him and have never met anyone with more passion for radio. He was always working on his show. We would hang out on Saturday nights watching "Cops" and he would be working on his show. Thankfully, I did get a chance to tell him, I'm better on the air today having worked with Zilla. Z-ya!

Jake


Whether we were dancing on a boat on Tellico Lake or arguing about a word during a game of Scrabble, he always made me laugh. I will miss his stories, his humor and his genuine personality. I want to thank him for being such a big part of my life over the past ten years and for his generosity by sharing his best friend with me! Love you Zilla

Anne

Kristie Chance Y'Barbo

January 27, 2009

I first met Todd when I first started working radio in 1982. He and I instantly became friends. We have had some great times together. One time he was working at a radio station K106 and I was at Kwic 108 and he called me up and said let's play the same song at the same time.. so we did...It was so funny...we thought so anyway. I have kept in touch with Todd over the years, even though he went to Tennessee and I got married. He even contacted me during Rita when I was at my mom's in Arkansas. He sent me some of his airchecks, so I can always go back and listen to that zany guy "Toddzilla". To Mr. Hubbard and Greg, my deepest sympathy. Todd was one of my real good friends and he will be greatly missed. Please contact me for the memorial. I really want to be there.

Kelli Benton

January 27, 2009

I knew Todd as a boy growing up in Nederland, Texas. He was such a fun loving kid. He used to come over to my house and swim, but not before his mom gave him a shot first (i dont remember why!!) His brother was instrumental in my sisters broken arm. I loved that guy. He was so much fun to be around. It is really good to know that he brought so much joy to soo many. He will be missed. My prayers go out to Greg and his mom.

Eddie Haskell

January 26, 2009

I worked with Zilla at K92 in Roanoke. He was one of the most creative people I have had the pleasure to listen to. No one worked harder... constantly on the phones and editing to make people say what he wanted. Rest in peace my brother. And you're welcome!

LeAnne M

January 26, 2009

My thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Toddzilla...he will be sadly missed by everyone. Will always remember all the great moments he shared at 102.1. God Bless and RIP Toddzilla! Will be forever loved and missed by all that knew you!

JENNIFER

January 26, 2009

I DIDN'T HEAR UNTIL THIS MORNING I LOVED TO LISTEN TO TODD ON STAR GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY

Joey S

January 26, 2009

I did not listen to 102.1 but I loved listening to Todd he was a blast to listen to. He will be missed by many. May God bless his family.

Walker Johnson

January 26, 2009

Todd was on while CP and I were on 102. As the entire station group started to crumble Todd always hung in there, talent and brains got him past the dark JACOR days. The winners were those who enjoyed him in their homes, cars and at work. Sorry to hear he left so soon.

Walker

Leah B.

January 26, 2009

My sympathy goes out to Todd's (Toddzilla) family, I didn't hear the news until today. I had the priviledge to meet Todd a couple of years ago, after listening to him on the air for several years. Todd was a great friend, smart and very funny person to be around and to listen to on the radio as well! Even while he was sick, he kept in touch and had good spirits about everything. He will be missed by many. His family will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Jane Totten

January 26, 2009

Todd you touched my life for such a short time but you changed it for the good in so many ways.

Faithful 102.1 Listener

January 26, 2009

It's a sad day in Knoxville. Rest in Peace Todd.

Ron Geronimo

January 26, 2009

Toddzilla was one of the best on-air personailities in the country. I was lucky to work with Todd at Star 93.1 from '95 - '96. Todd could have moved on to success in larger markets and perhaps nationally as a great on-air talent yet he decided to serve his faithfull audience in Knoxville. The entire radio community has lost an incredible on-air mentor.

Faithful Listener

January 26, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with Toddzilla's family. Todd was always a great joy to listen to in the evenings. The only prize I ever won came from Todd two years ago. May his soul and all the souls of our faithfully departments rest in peace.

Teresa

January 26, 2009

While I didn't know your personally, my daughter and I spent many evenings playing "What's In Todd's Pants". We will miss your sense of humor and quick wit.

FEFE LUFFMAN

January 26, 2009

I am so sadden by the lost of a great, funny disc jockey. i started listening to him to 14 years ago. so i have been a long time listener.he will always be missed. i always loved his laugh.my favorite game was guess whats in his pants lol. my love goes to his family. GREAT PERSON

Suzanne L

January 26, 2009

In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.

krisha

January 26, 2009

Todd was a dear friend to me. I have known him for 13 years. He took care of me for a time and was always making me laugh. I'm so happy he was in my life. He taught me a lot about life and about the job that he loved so much. Thoughts and love to your family.
I will miss me some Zilla!

zya

Connie

January 26, 2009

Your family is my my thoughts and prayers. I am so sorry for your loss.
An Alpha cousin in the Pacific Northwest, Connie

Troy Ameane

January 26, 2009

I met Todd back in 1997. I was honor that he always took the time to help me become a better Air Personalty. He will be missed!

Linda & Lindsey

January 26, 2009

My daughter and I heard the sad news this morning. We enjoyed listening to Toddzilla every evening and will miss him. Our prayers are with all the family and friends that have to continue every day with out him. May God comfort you through this difficult time. Toddzilla you will be missed, but not forgotten.

Wendy Barnes

January 26, 2009

My Prayer's go out to Todd's Family an Friends, I was so hart broken to hear the new's saturday when I was driving down the road, He was the best, I work the night shift so I enjoyed listing to him, an was saden that when he was no longer on the air to listin to at night, He will be miss greatly by this community, May God hold your Family & Friends and loved one's close during this time and my God heal the pain and Guide
you through it.

Rae Fox

January 26, 2009

Dear Gregg & Frank;
Todd was such a wonderful friend to me for over 20 years. I loved him dearly & was broken hearted to hear that he passed. He will truly be missed and never forgotten. He will always be in my heart & my thoughts. I send you my very deepest sympathy & may God bless you in this very sad time.

Jenny Glass

January 26, 2009

I loved listening to Toddzilla on Star. May God Bless his family & friends.

Tyler Beal

January 26, 2009

zilla was a very fun and close friend of mine. Me and mom loved being around him even though he was in pain thewhole time.But we loved him we love his family and were praying for Greg,lilly,and butch and im glad todds not suffering anymore and i know hes in a better place know

Jackie B

January 26, 2009

I did not have the pleasure of meeting Toddzilla but I did listen to him everynight and he will be greatly missed. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers. He is in a place of no more suffering. He always made you smile when you would hear him on the air.

7 North

January 26, 2009

To The Family of Todd...
We have had him on our floor numerous times and enjoyed his company. He always faced his disease with courage and dignity. He will be missed by the 7North Staff.

A.J. Miller

January 26, 2009

I have listened to Toddzilla since I was in High School. He will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.

Elizabeth Windle

January 26, 2009

You will be truly missed by all.

Darrell Hurley

January 26, 2009

I was saddened to hear the news about Toddzilla over the weekend. Toddzilla was one of the best on air radio personalities that Knoxville has ever had. I can remember listening to his show many times over the years. He was one of the more recognizable voices on the radio. He was always entertaining and I'm sure he brought a smile to many faces in this area. My prayers go out to his family, friends, and coworkers. He will be greatly missed by many.

Showing 1 - 40 of 40 results

Make a Donation
in William Hubbard's name

Memorial Events
for William Hubbard

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support William's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor William Hubbard's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more