Understandably, Steve Little had trouble controlling his emotions when he was asked about his friendship with Bill Way, who passed away Tuesday.

“He got his wish,” Steve said, “He said he didn’t want to drag this (illness) out. It has been a while since I’ve seen him, but we would talk several times on the phone.”

Bill Way, who anchored “It’s Your Turn,” on NEWS/TALK 101.5 FM for 24 years, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer on Nov. 16.

He was 74.

The first mention of Bill’s illness came last Saturday.

“So many memories,” Steve said, “I can’t remember when I didn’t know him.”

Locals might remember when Steve and Bill sang with ‘The Fabulous Delacardos’ for 33 years.

“I played in a band since 1964 until the early ’80s,” Steve said, “Bill called me one night and asked if I was watching a Cerebral Palsy Telethon on TV.”

Steve said Bill told him four people were singing A cappella, and it was something they could do.

After the group was formed, Steve said they practiced for about one year in the basement at Cecil Cravens’ home, which was located near the Old Hickory Mall.

“The memories are just overwhelming,” Steve said, “We started playing in a band together when we were 14 years old … the Cavaliers, and that group evolved into a group – The Merits – when we were in college (Lambuth). It’s just almost unbelievable the memories that I have of him.

“I could not even begin to tell you everything … I loved Bill and we had some great times together. He was a great guy and I enjoyed his company … every minute. I’m sorry he’s gone, and I’m going to miss him.”

(PHOTO: Steve Little)
David Thomas, Twitter – @DavidThomasWNWS
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