A gospel lover who wore his heart on his sleeve during his regular calls to a popular radio show has been remembered as “one of the most emotionally honest people you could meet”.

James Burgess, who died last month at 71, was a frequent voice on The Worship Room broadcast with Nikita Robinson on Magic 102.7FM.

Sandra Whitehead, his sister, told The Royal Gazette that her brother was widely known for his favourite phrase: “Do not let anybody water down your Jesus.”

She added: “All kinds of people have been coming up to me to talk about him. He touched so many in his own way; it’s incredible.

“He was so generous and humble, and always willing to help anyone, to do something for somebody.

“He absolutely honoured my parents, George and Dolly Burgess.”

George Burgess, who was a bus driver, was a proud union member, and Ms Whitehead said her brother had been “a big miss” at the Labour Day march this year.

Ms Robinson recalled befriending Mr Burgess over years of calls to The Worship Room, which endeared him to a wide community of listeners.

The station took a stream of tributes to Mr Burgess on Thursday ahead of his celebration of life service that afternoon.

Mr Robinson said: “Everybody puts in calls to the show to request their music, but Brother James was different — he would want Welsh choir music or pieces from Riverdance. It wasn’t always gospel.

“Brother James always wanted to encourage other people, and he was transparent. If he wasn’t having a good day, he would say so, then say, ‘But guess what — I’m trusting in the Lord.’ He was a man not afraid to cry.”

She said Mr Burgess spoke lovingly of his parents, the role of the union and any number of topics beyond religion. He openly shared his testimony as a recovered addict with others.

Ms Robinson added: “Everybody has their own story of what Brother James brought to the show.”

She shared a litany of tributes from The Worship Room “family”, with many echoing Mr Burgess’s catchphrase.

One wrote: “Thanks for the inspirational nuggets, Brother James, and for pouring into The Worship Room.”

Some said they had never met Mr Burgess in person but felt a close connection from his regular voice on the airwaves.

“Brother James was a role model to me,” another wrote. “He was transparent about his life, and he always said ‘give me roses while I’m still living’.

“I think of him always.”

One listener wrote: “Brother James was one of the most emotionally honest people you could meet, and although sometimes he seemed sad, he was always looking towards his Jesus.”

A tribute from Massachusetts included: “James was a thoughtful man, full of quiet wisdom and deep compassion.

“He loved everyone without condition and touched many lives with his kindness, his patience and his unwavering faith.

“Whether through a gentle word or a helping hand, James made those around him feel seen, valued and loved.

“Though he is no longer with us in body, his spirit and example remain. We are grateful for the time we had with him on the radio.

“We take comfort in knowing he is now resting in perfect peace.”

A man has been charged with causing the death of Mr Burgess. He was not required to enter a plea and is expected to appear in the Supreme Court next month.

• It is The Royal Gazette’s policy not to allow comments on stories regarding criminal court cases. This is to prevent any statements being published that may jeopardise the outcome of that case