Townsquare Media New Jersey announced Monday Jim Gearhart, longtime morning host for New Jersey 101.5 (WKXW-Trenton), won't be returning to the station after a recent injury.

As hundreds and hundreds of you wished Jim well through New Jersey 101.5's Facebook page and Twitter account Monday, countless also extended the warmest of welcomes to Bill Spadea, who's taking over the morning spot. Bill's been subbing in for Jim since September, and officially takes over the show Dec. 1.

We know Jim appreciates all your best wishes for a speedy recovery from a serious concussion — as well as the kind words you've had to say about a man who was truly a legend in New Jersey radio. Jim was with New Jersey 101.5 for a quarter-century, and in 2013, he was inducted into the New Jersey Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame.

Bill's honored to be following one of the greats. And he's equally honored by the way you've embraced him with open arms.

Some of the more touching comments we received Monday:

Joanne Pascarella: I'm going to miss Jim but Bill is doing a great job and is the perfect replacement. Thanks for all the years of morning dialogue Jim! Looking forward to the future, Bill!

Donna Natalizio Hanna: I will miss Jim terribly! I have been listening to him for years on my drive home from work every morning. Welcome to Bill Spadea ... He is a breath of fresh air as well as he is not afraid to speak his mind.

Janice Blinder: Jim, if you're reading this, you know how many listeners you had. Best of luck to you!

Nicole Marie Diano: Jim always kept me company during my drive to work in the morning. He will be dearly missed. I wish him nothing but the best and I hope he makes a full recovery! Bill, you've got some big shoes to fill, but you're doing a good job.

Bonnie Lawrence: Jim will be missed. I wish him the best as he has given his best for many, many years!!! Mornings haven't been the same without you. Best of luck to Bill as you have some big shoes to fill my friend!

Live Laugh Drink Beer: He will truly be missed in the morning! I was wondering what happened to his sexy voice!

Terri Mathis McGill: Will miss you Jim. May you only get better and totally enjoy your retirement.

Dennis Della Terza: All the best to Jim! Wishing him well in his recovery and retirement and best of luck to Bill as he takes over officially now. God bless.

Paula Safran: Bill Spadea has been doing a terrific job. Congrats and wishing Jim the very best too.

Carolyn Kuzniak: Good luck, Jim! Heal well and enjoy your next phase of life! I will miss your laugh! Welcome, Bill! I have been listening to you every morning and good luck to you.

Diana Dalton: Sorry to hear you're not feeling well, but I think it's time for you to enjoy life, as you retire. Wishing you great health! God speed!!! And congratulations Bill, I'm sure you'll do a great job!! And, you are a good looking guy!!! God bless!!!

Leslie Dwarin: Jim is a true gentleman. His wisdom and voice will be missed.

Linda Wagner: So sad to see Jim go, have listened to him since the beginning ... will really miss him. But now he has to put himself first and get better so he can enjoy retirement. ... Best wishes Jim!

John R Zegray: I hope Jim is recovering nicely from his fall. Will miss him and his humor. "Where are we going and what are we doing in this hand basket" LOL

Maureen Hitchings: It was always comforting to hear Jim Gearhart's voice in the early a.m.! Whether getting ready in the mornings, or it was a snow day or even during the horror that was 9/11, his voice was soothing and comforting, Even IF you didn't totally agree with his opinion ... it was still nice to know that he was there for us. We wish him all the best. And we will truly miss him. I really like Bill Spadea, and I wish him good luck in his new position ... but even he must know that he has HUGE shoes to fill!

Nancy Winters Farr: Sending love and prayers to Jim, for a complete and rapid recovery, enabling him to fully enjoy his retirement! I have always his wit, wisdom and beautiful use of the English language!

Andrea Ingenito Gray: Best wishes to Jim Gearhart! He will be missed, but couldn't ask for a better replacement than Bill! Good luck to you both!

More From New Jersey 101.5 FM