Johnny Eagle (Harold Loyd)

Harold Bazzle Loyd, affectionately known to generations as “Johnny Eagle,” made his final journey home, leaving this world with the same grace, purpose, and unmistakable presence that defined his life.

Born in 1938 to sharecroppers in Hanceville, Alabama, Johnny spent much of his childhood working the cotton fields; hard work that shaped his character and strengthened his resolve. Early on, he knew his life was meant for something more. In 1956, he answered a higher calling and joined the United States Air Force as a communications specialist. During his final two years in the Air Force, Johnny was stationed in Hawaii, where he first stepped behind a microphone and began working in radio, launching what would become the foundation of an extraordinary career in broadcasting.

Following his discharge, Johnny attended Keegan Technical Institute in Memphis, Tennessee, and upon graduation began working at WFPA in Fort Payne, Alabama in 1959.

Johnny’s voice, vision, and leadership eventually carried him through every facet of the radio business. In April of 1961, he joined Jet-Fli as their Afternoon Drive DJ, quickly becoming one of the most listened-to voices in Chattanooga while on the air at WFLI. His gift for connecting with people naturally led him into sales, where his exceptional success paved the way to station management, and by the 1970s he had become a shareholder. He later served as the managing partner of WJTT from 1986 to 1990, further solidifying his legacy as not only a broadcaster, but a leader in the industry.

His impact was undeniable, his success enduring, and his influence far-reaching. In July of 2023, his remarkable contributions were formally recognized with his well-deserved induction into the Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame. A crowning achievement celebrating a lifetime of dedication to the industry he loved.

But radio was only one chapter in Johnny’s remarkable story.

In the early 1990s, he embraced a new challenge in the barter business, proving once again that reinvention was one of his greatest strengths. In 1993, he acquired the Tradebank Exchange. Then he and his beloved wife Jackie opened the Eagle Barter Exchange, building yet another successful chapter through integrity, relationships, and vision.

In 2003, alongside his son Keith and partners Paul Dummitt and Bud Baldwin, Johnny was instrumental in launching Paragon Printing, a grand-format print company built on hard work, faith, and purpose. In 2026, Paragon Printing marks its 23rd year in business; an enduring legacy of Johnny’s entrepreneurial spirit and his belief in building something meaningful for future generations.

In retirement, Johnny devoted his time to serving others. He volunteered faithfully with Meals on Wheels and Memorial Hospital. He continued his service on the Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame Board of Directors. He was also an integral part of launching the Top 40 Radio Hall of Fame at the original WFLI studios in Chattanooga.

He also remained deeply devoted to his church, First Baptist in downtown Chattanooga, and to Sunday School, where his faith was lived out quietly, humbly, and consistently.

Johnny was preceded in death by his parents, Therman and Leona Loyd, the love of his life, Jackie Loyd, and his beloved sisters, Mildred Mary Doris Morgan, Anna Merle Gilbert, Etha Sue Smith, and Nelda June Butts.

He is survived by his only child, Keith Loyd (Susie); his sister, Sara Ellen Jean Harris; Jackie’s children Tammy Buckels (Corky) and Joanie Thies, along with their children and grandchildren; his closest friend, Ben Cagle; and many cherished nieces, nephews, friends, and his companions who will carry his memory forward.

Serving as pallbearers are Corky Buckels, Robert Murray, Dale Delay, Bradley Nelson, Justin Delay, and Shane McGrew. The entire Tennessee radio community will serve as honorary pallbearers, a fitting tribute to a man whose voice and leadership shaped an era.

Johnny Eagle’s signal has not gone silent. It has simply changed frequency. We find comfort in knowing that his faith has now become sight, that his journey continues beyond this life, and that he has been welcomed home with the words we all hope to hear:

“Well done, good and faithful servant.”

The family will welcome visitors on Thursday, February 12th from 4pm until 8pm at the East Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, 404 South Moore Road and from 10 AM to 11 AM Friday at First Baptist Church 401 Gateway Avenue.

Services will be at 11am Friday at First Baptist Church 401 Gateway Avenue. Interment will follow at the National Cemetery.

Please share your thoughts and memories at www.ChattanoogaEastChapel.com.