Judy Markey Dead at 82: Chicago Radio Pioneer Remembered for Her Humor, Courage and Candor
Judy Markey, the trailblazing Chicago broadcaster who entertained generations of listeners as one half of WGN Radio’s celebrated “Kathy and Judy” team, has died at the age of 82.
Markey died in Switzerland on September 11 after choosing a voluntary assisted death. She had been living with a degenerative neurological condition that progressively affected her balance, movement and overall quality of life.
After carefully considering her declining health, Markey decided that she wanted to determine when and how her life would end. Her loved ones said she remained composed and certain about her decision.
A Pioneering Voice on Chicago Radio
Markey became one of Chicago’s most recognizable radio personalities through “The Kathy and Judy Show,” which she presented alongside Kathy O’Malley on WGN-AM 720.
The weekday call-in program debuted in 1989 and remained on the air until 2009. Markey and O’Malley later reunited for a weekend edition that ran from 2013 to 2017.
Known affectionately as “The Girlfriends,” the pair made broadcasting history as Chicago’s first female radio-hosting team at a time when talk radio was overwhelmingly dominated by men.
Their natural chemistry, lively exchanges and willingness to speak openly about everyday life attracted a devoted audience. Listeners turned to the show not only for entertainment but also for companionship and honest conversation.
The program could move effortlessly from amusing personal stories to serious and sometimes sensitive issues. Markey and O’Malley’s candid approach helped create a community in which listeners felt comfortable sharing their own experiences.
A Writer Before Becoming a Broadcaster
Before establishing herself on the radio, Markey worked as a syndicated columnist for the Chicago Sun-Times.
Her newspaper columns demonstrated the same intelligence, humor and eye for ordinary human behavior that would later define her broadcasting career. She possessed a rare ability to transform simple moments into memorable stories that resonated with readers and listeners alike.
Markey’s contribution to journalism and broadcasting earned significant recognition. She was inducted into Northwestern University’s Medill Hall of Achievement and was named among Chicago’s “One Hundred Most Influential Women” and the nation’s “Top One Hundred Talk Show Hosts.”
Her Humor Remained Until the End
Markey’s husband, Tom Collinger, said she faced her final months without fear. Even as her physical health deteriorated, she continued to reassure and comfort the people closest to her.
Her trademark sense of humor also remained with her until her final moments.
Shortly before her death, Markey ate a few bites of a Snickers bar and mentioned having a headache. When Collinger asked whether she wanted some Advil, she replied that she wanted “something a little stronger.”
The comment drew laughter from those in the room and offered one final example of the quick wit that had delighted Chicago radio listeners for decades.
According to Collinger, Markey believed that her life had exceeded everything she once imagined for herself. She approached its conclusion with the same honesty and determination that had characterized her career.
Kathy O’Malley Pays Emotional Tribute
Kathy O’Malley remembered her longtime broadcasting partner as a brilliant, funny and wise woman whose personality left a lasting impression on everyone around her.
“The last half of my life has been wonderfully brightened by Judy Markey,” O’Malley wrote in a moving tribute.
She said Markey’s humor, attitude, intelligence and wisdom would remain part of her memories and those of thousands of listeners who felt a personal connection to the broadcaster, even if they had never met her.
Family and Lasting Legacy
Markey is survived by her husband, Tom Collinger; daughter Erin Markey; son Adam Markey; stepson Zach Collinger; stepdaughter Kate Collinger Buxton; son-in-law Pat Buxton; and two grandchildren.
Her death marks the end of an important era in Chicago broadcasting. However, her groundbreaking career, fearless honesty and ability to find humor in the most ordinary moments will continue to be remembered.
For the many people who welcomed Markey’s voice into their homes, cars and workplaces, she was more than a radio host. She was a trusted companion whose warmth and laughter became part of their daily lives.
