07/21/2026
A few words from our Dave Harrison regarding the passing of longtime team member, Carl Wayne:
Carl Wayne Shearer was a fixture at KVRP for many years. Immediately after graduating from Hamlin High School, Carl began his radio career at KDWT-AM in Stamford. However, he joined the staff at KVRP in 1981. Carl was the original evening DJ at the radio station… using the air name “David Wayne.” In fact, the first night that the station was on the air, there was an impromptu “dance party” that took place in what was the initial control room… which did make it a little difficult for Carl to do his air shift.
But Carl’s love for sports drew him into becoming a play-by-play announcer. His love for… and knowledge of… all of the sports that he covered made his broadcasts that much more interesting and informative. Carl was blessed with having a memory of little known sports information and history… which only added to his sports broadcasts.
Also, during his career, whether at KVRP in Haskell or KOXE in Brownwood, Carl also fostered many working relationships with the coaches in the area. He hosted Coaches Shows… did in-depth interviews with area coaches… and even hosted a weekly Sports Talk Show. In fact, on several occasions, he was able to arrange and conduct live telephone interviews with college and professional sports athletes… coaches… and even, ownership… including Mark Cuban, the former majority owner of the Dallas Mavericks NBA team.
But, Carl was more than just a “voice” on the radio. He genuinely cared about the communities within the station’s coverage. He became involved in the Brownwood Community Theater during his years at KOXE. And, after he returned to KVRP in 2022, on numerous occasions, Carl would invite representatives from various groups and organizations across the area to be a guest on his morning show… and to share about and promote any of their upcoming activities or events.
Carl was also a “face” in the community. On numerous occasions, he would take “selfies” at various locations to promote a business or event. And he also would do the same thing with many of the high school athletes and coaches in the area, as well.
Carl loved the area. He loved the communities in the area. He loved the youth in the area. And, he loved doing what God had blessed him and equipped him to do.
