Dr. Walter P. Lomax Jr., a giant in the Philadelphia health and business communities died today. He was 81 years old.
The Lomax family issued the following statement: "It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Walter P. Lomax, Jr., M.D. A physician, entrepreneur and philanthropist, Dr. Lomax was also a loving husband and father. He transitioned this morning at 8:30 a.m. after a brief illness.
Dr. Lomax is so loved by so many. We ask that everyone celebrate his legacy and remember him fondly for the extraordinary person he was. Mrs. Lomax and the entire Lomax family appreciate the condolences and outpouring of sympathy from the community."
Lomax and his wife Beverly purchased 900AM-WURD 10 years ago "to ensure that Philadelphia would remain a powerful voice in the living history of consious black radio."
Tonight, WURD will host its 10th Anniversary Celebration as planned at the African American Museum in Philadelphia despite Lomax's passing.
According to Lomax Health Systems, Inc., the company Lomax founded, he died around 8:15 a.m. at the Hospital at the University of Pennsylvania while surrounded by his family. He earlier had suffered a massive stroke.
Lomax was remembered as a caring and “compassionate” individual by his friend of 30 years, Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter.
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“He was an historical figure in Philadelphia and a skilled, compassionate doctor who improved the lives and health of many people,” Nutter, Lomax’s friend of 30 years said. “In addition to his work in the health care field, Dr. Lomax was a great businessman, philanthropist, and supporter of many worthy causes: minority business development, educational attainment, and artistic and cultural institutions. He was well respected by many people for his tireless efforts.
“I had the pleasure of traveling with Dr. Lomax to West Africa in 1985 for business. He was a great friend and an inspiration in my work. His wife, Beverly, and their children represent the finest in community engagement and service to others. Dr. Lomax set a very high example for us all to follow, and I will miss him deeply.”
No immediate word was given on funeral plans.
