WASHINGTON (July 12, 2020) - Local radio legend and the longtime host of 96.3 WHUR-FM’s #1 rated Gospel Spirit Show Patrick Ellis has been hospitalized for treatment of complications from the coronavirus. 

Like millions across the city, country, and globe, Ellis too has been fighting COVID-19 and is being treated at a local hospital.  “While his family and colleagues remain hopeful that he will recover from this virus, we are calling on the community to lift Ellis up in prayer,” said WHUR General Manager Sean Plater. 

Ellis has been the dominating radio voice on Sundays from 6 a.m. to 11 a.m. for more than 40 years. His philanthropic efforts at the station and in the community have helped feed thousands, provided care for substance addicted babies, and assisted in building a shelter for domestic violence victims and their children. 

Ellis is the recipient of countless awards, proclamations and citations, including Washingtonian Magazine’s Person of the Year, NAB Radio Host of the Year, and many more.

Ellis’ family issued the following statement: 

“Patrick is a fighter and we remain hopeful that he will return to the job he loves and has cherished for more than four decades, and that we will hear his voice across the airwaves again soon. To his devout listeners, he loves and misses you.  We thank you for your outpouring of love and support. We ask that you continue to lift him up in prayer as he heals. Please continue to stay safe and healthy.”

To send well wishes to Patrick Ellis, please call the 96.3 WHUR Community Response Line at 202-308-7183.

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For media inquiries, please contact Renee J. Nash, rnash@whur.com