Veteran Broadcaster James Tarr Paykoo Passes Away, Leaving a Lasting Legacy in Liberian Journalism

MONROVIA, LIBERIA: Liberia’s media community is in mourning following the reported death of veteran journalist and broadcaster James Tarr Paykoo, a respected media practitioner who dedicated years of service to the country’s broadcasting industry through the state-owned Liberia Broadcasting System (LBS/ELBC).

Paykoo’s passing marks another painful loss for Liberia’s journalism profession, a sector he helped shape through his commitment to public broadcasting and information dissemination. Colleagues, friends, and members of the media fraternity have begun paying tribute to a man remembered for his professionalism, dedication, and passion for journalism.

Throughout his career, James Tarr Paykoo was associated with ELBC, where he contributed to informing the public and amplifying important national conversations. As one of Liberia’s veteran broadcasters, he was part of a generation of journalists who helped sustain radio and television broadcasting during some of the country’s most challenging periods and years of reconstruction.

His death comes at a time when Liberia’s media industry continues to reflect on the contributions of veteran journalists who helped build and strengthen the profession. The Press Union of Liberia has frequently described the passing of experienced journalists as a significant loss to the country’s media landscape because of the institutional knowledge and mentorship they provide to younger reporters and broadcasters.  

Family members, colleagues, and friends are said to be deeply saddened by the news, remembering Paykoo as a committed media professional whose work touched many lives.

As news of his death spreads across the country, tributes continue to pour in from journalists and citizens who admired his years of service to Liberia’s broadcasting sector.

The death of James Tarr Paykoo leaves a void within Liberia’s media community, but his contributions to journalism and public service will remain part of the profession’s history for years to come.

The management and staff of this publication extend heartfelt condolences to the Paykoo family, colleagues at ELBC, and the entire Liberian media fraternity.