Columbia Remembers Beloved Media Personality Joe Pinner
It is with heavy hearts that the city of Columbia bids farewell to a true local legend, Joe Pinner, who passed away on Sunday, September 22, 2024. For over six decades, Joe brought joy, laughter, and education to countless families across the region through his work in radio and television, becoming a cherished figure in many households.
Looking back, Joe’s journey into the media world started at the tender age of nine when he first dreamed of a career in radio. While television was just beginning to take off, Joe saw a future that included him behind the microphone. By age 15, he was fulfilling that dream at WMBL in New Bern, North Carolina. His enthusiasm propelled him through various roles in the media, ultimately leading him to Columbia, a city he fondly called home for over 50 years.
A Life in Broadcasting
Joe’s professional path was full of excitement and salient career shifts. After a stint working at WHIT while in high school, he moved to WCHL during his college years at the University of North Carolina. His first big break in television came in 1955 in Jacksonville, Florida, where he met the love of his life, Peggy, a talented singer. Serving in the Army stationed at Fort Jackson gave Joe the unique opportunity to manage the station there, WFJX, while also working with WNOK throughout the week.
Feeling the magnetic pull of Columbia, Joe officially made the city his home after returning from his military service. In 1963, he joined WIS and quickly became a household name, particularly known for the beloved children’s show “Mr. Knozit.” What started as a simple idea to engage kids with educational content morphed into a production that earned Joe a Peabody Award in 1967, putting him in the company of entertainment greats like Bob Hope and Ed Sullivan. Joe’s charm and ability to connect with viewers made him a standout personality.
Impact Beyond the Screen
Joe wasn’t just an entertainer; he was a friend to many in the community. His thoughtful nature often shone through in moments that veered towards the surprising and profound. For instance, in one memorable day, Joe played a crucial role in talking a distressed man down from the Gervais Street bridge. This instinct to reach out and help others exemplified the very essence of who Joe was—someone deeply committed to making a difference in the lives of the people around him.
In addition to his on-screen contributions, Joe worked tirelessly with local organizations, dedicating his time to the Children’s Hospital and United Way, showing a consistent commitment to uplifting his community. Even after retirement in 2018, his voice continued to resonate through various projects, including promotional work for the South Carolina State Fair.
A Vision for Journalism
Despite the changes in the media landscape over the years, Joe remained steadfast in his belief that journalism should prioritize truth and civility. He often expressed concern about how corporate influences transformed the industry, lamenting the lack of authentic storytelling that once characterized the field. Joe believed strongly in the need for journalists to remember the pioneers of the past, advocating for more focus on accurate reporting rather than sensationalism.
Legacy of Joy
At the end of the day, Joe Pinner’s legacy lies in his unwavering ability to bring smiles to the faces of those he encountered. His charismatic personality, coupled with his profound love for media, allowed him to touch the lives of many. “There is no greater reward than seeing a person who is sad smile,” he once remarked, encapsulating the core of his life’s work.
As Columbia reflects on the life of this remarkable individual, we remember Joe not just for the entertainer he was, but for the warmth and compassion that defined him. “The dream became a reality when I opened the microphone in New Bern,” Joe said. Indeed, he turned his dream into a reality, living a remarkable journey that we will continue to celebrate. Thank you, Joe, for the joyful ride and the adventures you shared with all of us.
