COLUMBIA, S.C. — James Alan Reames, known to his fans as "Weird Beard," was found last Thursday after being missing for roughly 18 months. Reames, a beloved radio host for FOX 102.3, had been a primary force in the Columbia radio scene since the 1980s.
"Oh my gosh, I wouldn't be who I am today without Weird Beard," said Leisa Marie Greer. Greer is part of a group called Beard’s Merry Bandits, a circle of friends advocating for Reames’ comeback.
Reames fell into a challenging period last March when he was seeking shelter at friends’ places after losing his home and phone, and he wasn't heard from again until a week ago when he was found homeless in the streets of Columbia.
"I started working phones and calling everybody I could think of to find him. One of our mutual friends happened to be driving by on her way to the gym and caught him and said, 'Aren't you Beard?' and he said, 'Yes, I am.,” explained Greer.
Following this discovery, Greer immediately stepped in to help Reames get the support he needed. She created a GoFundMe campaign with the goal of raising $20,000 for him.
"Flat out overwhelming, I can't fathom why I would garner such support but I'm enjoying it," Reames said with gratitude.
Greer emphasized the community's love for Reames: "There is a whole community of people that have grown up with him, have gone to school with him, have known him his whole life, that love him and want to see him okay and cared for."
However, there are still unanswered questions about where Reames was during those 18 months. "We are not sure. There are fuzzy issues about timing and what actually happened both on his part and what we have been able to piece together," Greer explained.
Despite the mystery, Reames is grateful for the support from his community. "Thank you, all of you, for your support. For gosh... 50 years of your support. It's something else and it's really mind-boggling to know I was responsible for all that," he remarked.
Reames has spent the last week reconnecting with fans and loved ones and looks forward to getting the help he needs.