DJ Ray Cordeiro Cause of Death: World's Longest-Working DJ Dead at 98

Ray Cordeiro, a renowned DJ and Hong Kong's "uncle," died at the age of 98, his former employer confirmed.

Radio Television Hong Kong delivered the news in a statement (per Billboard), saying that he died on Jan. 13. The former employer did not share any details about his cause of death, but according to Variety, the DJ's funeral committee revealed on Saturday that he passed away at the CUHK Medical Center in Hong Kong.

It added that Cordeiro's friends and family bid goodbye to him with a version of "You'll Never Walk Alone."

Hong Kong's Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development Algernon Yau released a message to send tributes to the late DJ, acknowledging the DJ's contributions to the broadcasting industry over the past seven decades.

"I would like to express my sincere thanks to Dr Cordeiro for his lifelong contributions to the broadcasting industry, and extend my deepest condolences to his family," the statement continued. "We will fondly remember him."

Meanwhile, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Kevin Yeung remembered "Uncle Ray" as the person who guided people in appreciating music through his experience and skills. Yeung honored him as a prominent figure in Hong Kong who made "considerable" contributions to the music scene in the country.

Fans, colleagues, and publications around the globe also paid respects to the late DJ.

Ray Cordeiro's Career and Legacy

Before conquering the music and broadcasting industry, Cordeiro initially worked as a prison warder and a bank clerk.

In 1949, he started his broadcasting career at Radio Rediffusion before he scored the head of light music position at Radio Hong Kong. The company is now known as RTHK, where he worked until 2021.

That year, he officially retired with a heartfelt message to the world. Cordeiro, who ended his career at the age of 96, told RTHK he did not have any regrets after being able to do what he wanted to do.

Although he continued his work two years before his death, Cordeiro made his Guinness Record in 2000 and ultimately became the world's longest-working DJ.

The DJ's "All the Way With Ray" remained on RTHK Radio 3 for 51 years until his 2021 retirement.

Cordeiro notably interviewed several iconic musicians, including The Beatles, Elton John, and Tony Bennett.