OHIO -- Sean Cowley, a former Utica-Rome radio sales director, who later had a brief stint as the GM of an Ithaca radio station, has died. This, according to multiple social media posts from friends here in Central New York and in his hometown near Cleveland, Ohio.
Cowley was the Director of Sales for the then-Regent (now Townsquare) cluster during the 2000s. CNYRadio.com has not been able to immediately confirm the dates of Cowley's tenure there, but there was some overlap with the latter part your editor's time at Lite 98.7 (WLZW), between 1999 and 2005.
Between June 2011 and March 2021, Cowley was the General Manager for Ithaca CHR station Z95.5 (WFIZ). SInce then, Cowley's LinkedIn profile lists a number of sales-related positions, mostly in or around Cleveland, as he and his family had returned to his hometown of Garfield Heights.
In various Facebook posts (which we won't share here because they are not public), colleagues who shared the news and responded with comments recalled Cowley's sense of humor and sarcasm. Some remarked on how they were grateful for his mentorship and friendship. Several said they remained in touch with him in the years since he left Utica, some speaking with him just recently.
One public records database indicates Cowley was just a couple weeks shy of his 51st birthday. CNYRadio.com has not heard or found anything indicating a cause or any details regarding arrangements. We extend our deepest sympathies to Sean's family and the many friends he made during his time in Central New York.
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