Beloved journalist, son, and friend, Marshall Latimore passed away last week at the age of 36 years old. Executive editor and chief content officer of the Atlanta Voice newspaper and member of the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ), Marshall was known nationally as a talented voice for the Black Press.
Atlanta Voice Publisher Janis Ware issued this statement on Facebook expressing the staff’s grief:
“We at #TheAtlantaVoice are coming to grips with the sudden and unexpected loss of our Executive Editor and Chief Content Officer, Marshall A. Latimore. Marshall stood in the epicenter of this Atlanta treasure as we have transformed The Atlanta Voice into a multi-media powerhouse set to grow our legacy for generations to come.”
A native of Birmingham, Alabama and graduate of Tennessee State University (TSU), Marshall’s influence on the Black press was felt in his previous roles as a content coordinator for Best Version Media, digital art director for the Houston Defender Media Group, executive editor for STAYONTHEGO magazine, creative director for duGard Communications and creative director for HBCUstory Inc.
Marshall was known for having the ability to create stories using his talent as both a writer and a designer. His multimedia approach to news was an inspiration to the many students he mentored at Georgia State University, Clark Atlanta University, Morehouse College, Spelman College, and his cherished TSU.
During Marshall’s time in Nashville, alongside STAYONTHEGO Publisher Shawntaz Crawford, Marshall was able to use his talents as a writer and designer to tell the stories of Black Nashvillians that were often ignored by mainstream media sources. “He was a great human being and was committed to building the Black Press. He worked tirelessly to make his mark in the media industry dreaming to one day be the editor of a Black publication,” said Crawford. “I am glad that he was at least able to achieve that goal as the editor for The Atlanta Voice.”
Marshall was instrumental in the development of the Nashville Voice, helping to set the tone and design for the online newspaper. “Marshall was a trailblazer who truly understood what it meant to be a modern day journalist,” said Nashville Voice Managing Editor and President of the Nashville Chapter of NABJ. “We were very lucky in the early days to have Marshall on our team, his ability to use design and written content to tell important Black stories will be missed.”
Nashville Voice Editor in Chief Nadira Freeman was sadden at what the loss of Marshall means to the world of the Black Press. “Honoring a friend’s transition is truly about honoring their life. Marshall was the quintessential example of what journalistic integrity looks like and sounds like,” Freeman said. “His talent and dedication to his craft created a lasting impression on those who had the opportunity to engage with him.”
Well respected across the nation, Marshall was known for always lending a helping hand to other media professionals and was a consistent presence at both local and national NABJ events and conferences. “The Nashville chapter of NABJ will always appreciate him for the dedicated work he always put forth. He will always be remembered for he meant to Black culture and will be an inspiration for Black journalists for years to come,” said Luntz.
Marshall will be remembered as a cherished friend who will be missed by many.
“He was intelligent, hardworking, caring, compassionate and thoughtful. He has been there for me at every twist and turn in my life as someone I could depend on, confide in and trust. He enriched the lives of all whom he came in contact with and made the world a better place through his commitment and contribution to his craft. I will miss my friend and carry his memory with me always.”
“He was a wonderful human being and pushed everyone around him to be better. I am grateful to have been able to work with him and call him my friend. Our friendship transcends death because the memories I have of him will never be forgotten,” Freeman said.
“Marshall was a dear colleague and friend who always wore his signature smile and could light up a room with his presence. I looked forward to any opportunity to work
With him. Looking back on his work he was the epitome of New journalism and jack of all trades. I am thankful our paths crossed with NABJ and he became family. Additionally, he provided me my first Entertainment Editor opportunity working under his direction with STAYONTHEGO magazine,” said Nashville Entertainment writer Keosha Thomas.
We are saddened by the news of the passing of our beloved member Marshall A. Latimore, chief content officer, and editor-in-chief of @theatlantavoice. Our hearts are with Latimore’s family and colleagues. pic.twitter.com/BtF8XhKxW9
— NABJ Headquarters (@NABJ) March 11, 2021
Our entire chapter is devastated to learn of the news of Marshall Latimore’s passing. Marshall has been a strong member of not just our chapter but the national organization. He will be remembered as a trailblazer in both his approach to journalism and to design. pic.twitter.com/dCzzkN4rvP
— NABJ Nashville (@NashvilleNABJ) March 15, 2021
Heartbreaking news ????
We send our love, condolences, and prayers to the Latimore family and our brothers and sisters of @theatlantavoice. https://t.co/haxJw4LsKj
— theGrio.com (@theGrio) March 11, 2021
Atlanta police confirmed that an autopsy will be conducted to confirm the cause of Marshall’s death. The Atlanta Voice has asked that those who would like to donate to the Latimore family or send them anything during this time, to please contact csuggs@theatlantavoice.com for instructions on how to proceed.
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