WORCESTER, Mass. — The City of Worcester is mourning the loss of a passionate advocate and larger-than-life personality. Former Worcester mayor and local radio personality Jordan Levy has died at 79. 

Levy served as Worcester mayor from 1981 to 1982, and again from 1988 to 1993. 

Many also remember him as host of the Jordan Levy Show on WTAG radio, including longtime friend and fellow host Jim Polito.

Polito recalled Levy as a very public man who also tended to enjoy his privacy, adding he was 'so many things to so many people.'

"He was a successful businessperson, a successful politician who never lost an election, and he hosted an award-winning radio show for decades," Polito said. "He had three major chapters in his life, but Jordan was a simple guy, born and raised on Vernon Hill. He may have mixed with the highest people in the world, but he never forgot his roots."

Levy also served on the Massachusetts Executive Council and the Turnpike Authority. 

When he became mayor in 1987, he was the city's first popularly-elected mayor in 40 years. 

Mayor Joseph Petty took to social media to share his condolences and reflect on Levy's life, calling him a 'true trailblazer'. 

"Jordan Levy's exuberance and dedication to Worcester will always be remembered, and he leaves an indelible mark on our city's history," Petty wrote. "We honor his legacy and express our condolences to his family and loved ones. I join the entire City Council and municipal government in mourning his passing."

Petty requested all flags on city buildings fly at half-mast on Friday in honor of Levy.