Legendary Philadelphia disc jockey Jerry Blavat dies at 82

By6abc Digital Staff via WPVI logo
Friday, January 20, 2023 2:56PM



PHILADELPHIA -- Jerry Blavat, the legendary disc jockey known as "The Geator with the Heater" and "The Boss with the Hot Sauce" has died, Action News has learned. He was 82. He passed away at 3:45 a.m. Friday at hospice at Jefferson-Methodist Hospital from the effects of myasthenia gravis, which is a condition that causes weakness in the skeletal muscles, and related health issues.

He leaves behind four daughters, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and his longtime partner Keely Stahl. His funeral will be held on Saturday, January 28 at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul at 1723 Race Street in Philadelphia. A viewing will begin at 9 a.m., with mass scheduled at 11:30 a.m. The family tells 6abc that singer Dionne Warwick will deliver the eulogy.

"Jerry wished for a big celebration of life. A big one is planned, and all are welcome," his family said in a statement. Blavat was recently suffering from medical issues related to a shoulder injury and had to cancel an upcoming show at the Kimmel Cultural Campus due to his health, according to his website.

Born in South Philadelphia to a Jewish father and Italian mother, music ran through his veins from childhood. "The Geator" was widely known as one of the early rock-and-roll DJs who revolutionized the profession and developed the "oldies" format. Blavat appeared on several television shows and films including "The Monkees," "Desperately Seeking Susan," "Baby, It's You" and "Cookie."

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https://6abc.com/jerry-blavat-dead-philadelphia-dj-geator-with-the-heater-health/12720769/