George Lapides

George Lapides was a sports editor and writer renowned for his in-depth understanding of Memphis sports history. Additionally, he hosted several radio sports talk show broadcasts throughout the years.

He was an active member of his community and loved spending time with family and friends. Most importantly, he took great joy in being a dad by always ensuring his children were contented.

Early Life and Education

George Lapides was born on March 7, 1934 in Boston, Massachusetts to Samuel and Polly (Braslavsky) Lapides; he also has two older brothers named Isador and Morris Lapides.

He was raised in Mattapan, Massachusetts and was heavily influenced by his Jewish heritage. As an advocate for education and a passionate learner himself, he had a deep-seated belief in its power to transform lives.

George Glassman married Elaine Glassman and dedicated his life to her. Together they were immensely proud of their children and grandchildren, with special friends like Carol Yanofsky who shared a special connection with George and Elaine.

Professional Career

Lapides had a distinguished career in journalism, serving as sports editor of the Press-Scimitar newspaper. Additionally, he held other positions such as athletic director at Rhodes College and general manager of the Memphis Chicks minor league baseball team.

He was widely considered the father of Memphis sports radio, hosting his show Sportstime with George Lapides for 45 years and becoming one of the longest-running daily radio shows in America.

Over the course of three years, Lapides bravely battled Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis – a devastating lung disease which ultimately claimed his life. It is an immense loss, as Lapides was an incredible host.

Achievements and Honors

Lapides was a longstanding member of Memphis’ media community, having spent nearly 54 years covering sports. He served as sports editor and columnist for the former Memphis Press-Scimitar from 1967 until its closure in 1983.

He served as athletic director at Rhodes College for one year and general manager of the Memphis Chicks, a minor league baseball team and Double-A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals. Furthermore, he hosted a sports talk radio show for 45 years.

He was a pioneer among sportswriters who made the transition from print to radio, with his Sportstime with George Lapides program now celebrating its 42nd year on air – making it the longest running sports radio program in America.

Personal Life

George Lapides was an energetic individual who enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. Additionally, he had a successful business venture under his belt.

He started a rug company and sold carpets for schools and churches in the area. He was immensely proud of his work, and enjoyed being an entrepreneur.

George was a dedicated father, always being there for his children. He took them apple picking and pumpkin carving, went out for breakfast together in the summertime, and enjoyed ice cream treats in the winter. As their dad, George ensured that every moment was filled with love.

He was an incredible dad to his son Robert, who graduated from Babson College and went on to launch his own business. Additionally, they shared many special moments together as proud parents.

Net Worth

George Lapides was a renowned retired sports journalist and executive who passed away in 2016. He founded Rhodes College, served as President of the Memphis Chicks baseball team, and hosted Sportstime with George Lapides on WREG-TV for 45 years.

He was a member of both the National Sportswriters Association and International Sports Writers Association, as well as serving on the boards of Mustard Seed Communities and American Investment Council. A passionate supporter of Memphis, he became one of its most renowned voices in sports. Tragically, at age 76 he succumbed to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.