Thurman E. Johnson

As a result of 46 years in the newspaper business, I often check the classifieds in cities I visit out of curiosity about newspaper job listings.
I did that a week ago, before Thurm
passed away, and read an "Editor Wanted" ad that listed primary qualifications I'd never seen published that way before.
That newspaper was looking for someone who, as editor, maintained poise under pressure and could deal with staff and the public with tact and a sense of humor.
...

Dear Family, So sorry to hear of your husband/father's passing. But as a daughter who's father had Alzheimer's it is a blessing that they are back in heaven. My dad was roommates with Thurman at Golden Years. I would bring in my Golden Retriever to visit. Thurman just loved her. He called her Kitty. "Here Kitty, Kitty" he would say. He never wanted to stop petting her. May you have fond memories of Thurman. God Bless
Debbie Coulter daughter of Boyde Brown

Jeanne and family,
Sorry to hear of your father's passing. My prayers are with you and your family at this time of need.
Linda Blomberg-Wilson

Thurman was the only person I would let get away with calling me "Ree-shard." He was more than my editor, he was a good friend. For four years, I'd call him every morning to let him know what was cooking at the "cop shop," and for four years he'd end the conversation with: "Okay, Reeshard, we'll see ya when ya get here."
You'd often see Thurman with a toothpick in his mouth. I once asked him why and he said it was safer than a pencil; he'd be less likely to poke someone's eye out with...