John Fagot, one of the all-time greats of radio promotion, a larger-than-life character and beloved member of our music-world mishpuchah, died 11/2. He was 78. A cause of death has not been made public.

The Atlanta native held top promotion posts at Columbia, Capitol and Hollywood over more than 20 years in the trenches. He worked records by more superstar acts than you’ve had hot dinners, and—most importantly—he always made it fun. Outrageous, outspoken, outlandish in his humor, he pronounced his last name proudly and emphatically, though many others with the same surname (including his wife, Lucy, who survives him) preferred to say “Fa-GO.”

Nobody loved or told a joke better than Johnny—“Find the Hat” was a perennial favorite—and he obliged us at HITS with some of our all-time favorite visuals, notably the infamous nude “centerfold” and his donning of the Blind Melon “bee girl” costume.

He was a true promo great, a master storyteller, an avid fisherman and a real friend. We’ll miss him terribly.

“John was the consummate record man, beloved by everyone in the industry,” reads a statement from Capitol. “But he was so much more than that; he was a loving husband, father, grandfather and friend to so many. He played an important role in establishing the legacy of Capitol Records and his contributions will endure. As sad as we are today, thinking of John can’t help but make us smile. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. John will be missed.”

In addition to Lucy, John is survived by daughter Mary and son Chris.

Click the pics for larger views, if you dare.