Comedian Ron Sexton, better known to many as Donnie Baker and several other characters, has passed away.

The news this morning confirmed by family in a Facebook post:

It is with immense sadness that we let everyone know that Ron Sexton passed away yesterday. He was Donnie Baker to most of you, but Ron and Dad to us. Please respect our privacy at this time and pray for our family.

Tracey, Eric, Abigail, Alex, and Aliah

Jim and Ila

The arena that highlighted Sexton's characters saluted his talent and friendship:

The Bob & Tom Show 

"We are sad to confirm that Ron Sexton, longtime member of the ensemble cast of "The Bob & Tom Show", died Friday in Ohio while on tour with his stand-up comedy show. Ron was known by millions of listeners of "The Bob & Tom Show" for the indelible comedic characters he played on-air - including Donnie Baker, Kenny Tarmac, and Floyd the Trucker, as well as his spot-on celebrity impersonations. Ron was a much-loved colleague and friend, and we will miss him greatly. We send our sincerest condolences to his family and friends. He made many, many people happy during his more than 20 years with "The Bob & Tom Show," and we will remember him with love and gratitude." - Tom Griswold.

Locally, Sexton, as Donnie Baker, was an annual visitor to The Strand Theatre in Shelbyville:

The Strand Theatre

The Strand is saddened to have lost our good friend Ron Sexton. He was one of our biggest supporters. We are thinking of his friends and family during this difficult time. May his memory be a blessing.

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