HABERSHAM COUNTY — For generations of listeners across Northeast Georgia, Billy Burrell has been a familiar voice of faith, encouragement, and constancy. From early-morning radio broadcasts to decades of ministry, Burrell’s life has been defined by service — a legacy that now has the full attention and prayers of the Habersham community following news of his recent cancer diagnosis.
Burrell spent an extraordinary 70 years in radio, including decades as the host of Sunshine Melodies on WCON Radio. His broadcasting career also included stations in Toccoa before he eventually made Cornelia his home base. At one point, Burrell even continued his WCON broadcasts while living in Mississippi, mailing recorded cassette tapes back to the station so his listeners would not miss a day.
Known as a lifelong early riser, Burrell built his radio schedule around habits that suited him naturally. For years, he rose at 3:30 each morning, often operating on just six hours of sleep, balanced by an afternoon nap. That routine carried him well into his 90s, allowing him to remain a steady presence on the air long after most would have retired.
A Changing Industry, an Unchanging Message
Over seven decades, Burrell witnessed dramatic changes in broadcasting technology. He began his career on a low-wattage station and lived to see WCON grow into a powerful signal reaching tens of thousands of listeners. Despite the shift to modern studios filled with screens and digital systems, Burrell remained devoted to a simpler approach — relying primarily on his microphone, soundboard, and a personal collection of CDs he carried with him each day.
Sunshine Melodies was never scripted. Each broadcast blended gospel music with Burrell’s personal testimony, reflections on faith, and encouragement drawn from a lifetime of ministry. His presence on the air was openly Christian and unapologetically pastoral, creating a bond with listeners who felt they knew him personally.
That connection often extended beyond the radio. Over the years, Burrell presided over countless funerals for listeners he had never met in person but had come to know through the airwaves — sometimes leading multiple services in a single day.
Retirement From Radio, Not From Ministry
Burrell stepped away from radio in his 90s, not because of a lack of passion, but because he felt the time was right. While he retired from broadcasting, he made it clear that his calling to ministry was not ending. He has continued to preach, conduct funerals, and serve churches as opportunities arise.
Following Burrell’s retirement, Sunshine Melodies continued under the leadership of Mike Franklin, senior pastor of The Torch in Cornelia. Franklin assumed hosting duties in July, carrying forward the program’s strong Christian foundation while introducing updated music and devotional segments. The program continues to air weekday mornings on WCON and The Breeze 107.7.
A New Season, Surrounded by Prayer
Now 95 years old, Burrell faces a new challenge following his recent cancer diagnosis. While details about the illness are still forthcoming, those close to him say he remains in good spirits and grounded in the faith that has guided his entire life.
As Burrell approaches his 96th birthday on March 15, friends and community members are being invited to participate in a simple act of encouragement by sending birthday cards and letters that can be shared with him daily.
Cards and letters may be mailed to:
Billy
PO Box 2
Mount Airy, GA 30563
(A family friend will personally deliver the cards and read them to Burrell.)
For a man who spent a lifetime uplifting others — through radio, ministry, and personal connection — the Habersham community is now returning that love through prayer, gratitude, and words of encouragement.
Habersham News joins the community in lifting up Billy Burrell and his family during this time, honoring a life that has left an enduring imprint on Northeast Georgia.
