“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day-and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.” – 2 Timothy 4:7-8 (NIV)James Edwin Todd, 80, finished his race unexpectedly and passed in his sleep, Aug. 30, 2018, at his home in Midland.Born on Feb. 18, 1938 in Dallas, to James Erasmus Todd and Maurice Williams Todd, Mr. Todd was a long-time Midland journalist beloved by all who knew him. He is survived by brothers Gene Todd, of Hammond, La., and Delbert Todd (Patsy) of Iowa Park, along with nephew Glenn Todd, nieces Dee Ann Emberton and Lauren Todd and numerous cats.Mr. Todd’s dedication to the highest standards of his profession, combined with uncommon kindness, character and goodwill to others, are but small parts of what made Mr. Todd unique among gentlemen. One must ponder how Midland’s master wordsmith would characterize himself, if called upon for such a description. But all who knew Ed realize any such words would be simply marked, with his gentle humility.Mr. Todd came to Midland in 1974, working as a journalist for the Midland Reporter-Telegram, where his style of old school, no-nonsense journalism graced the newspaper’s pages while touching the hearts of many thousands. He was considered a role model by generations of journalists who would work alongside him, and became a cherished and lifetime friend to most who passed through the MRT newsroom for over 40 years.Mr. Todd graduated from high school in Iowa Park, Texas, attended Midwestern University in Wichita Falls and earned a master’s degree from East Texas State College in Commerce. He served honorably in the United States Army in the mid-late 1950s, stationed in France as a radio technician.Mr. Todd’s final front-page presence was paid in tribute by colleagues: https://www.mrt.com/news/article/Today-we-bid-farewell-to-Ed-Todd-13199592.phpServices will be held Tuesday, Sept. 11, 2018 in Midland at First Presbyterian Church, officiated by Rev. Henry Pendergrass, of Mr. Todd's place of worship, Christ Church Anglican of Midland. In lieu of flowers, donations in Mr. Todd’s memory may be made to local animal rescue efforts or library non-profits.Arrangements are entrusted to Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Midland. Online condolences may be submitted at npwelch.com,
