Who is Tim Tooten? Tributes pour in as beloved news reporter and pastor passes away

Dr. Tim Tooten was a prominent journalist and pastor, best known for his long tenure of work with WBAL-TV 11 in Baltimore, where he served as chief education reporter for more than 35 years. Tooten started his broadcasting career in 1976 as a high school disc jockey in Live Oak, Florida, and then graduated from Florida State University with a Bachelor of Science in communications. Before arriving at WBAL-TV in 1988, Tooten had work experience in reporting in Washington, D.C., and West Virginia.

One of his notable works includes a half-hour documentary titled Africa's Maryland, filmed in Liberia, West Africa, which led to a significant cultural, educational, and financial sister city agreement between Maryland and two counties in Liberia.

Throughout his career, Tooten was dedicated to covering educational stories, highlighting both the challenges and achievements within local school systems. He was particularly recognized for delivering school closing announcements and stories of academic success, becoming a trusted source for Baltimore's youth.

The documentary East is East, which examined the lives of African Americans growing up on Maryland's Eastern Shore, earned Tim Tooten the prestigious National Headliner Award as well. Additionally, his investigative journalism earned him an Associated Press award for an undercover series exposing historical discrimination within private clubs in West Virginia.

Beyond journalism, Tooten was deeply involved in the community as the pastor of Harvest Christian Ministries in Nottingham. He also served as an adjunct professor at Loyola University Maryland, teaching broadcast journalism. After retiring in 2023, Tooten left behind a legacy of dedication to both his profession and community. Tim Tooten has also authored a book on Christian parenting titled Leading by Example: A Parental Guide to Teaching and Modeling Christian Faith at Home.

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Tributes pour in for Reverend Tim Tooten

There has been a barrage of tributes for Dr. Tim Tooten, who is being remembered for the lives he touched. In a post on X, the Baltimore County Police Department wrote:

"Prior to his retirement, the Baltimore County Police Department had the opportunity to collaborate with Dr. Tim Tooten on countless stories. He will be missed. Dr. Tooten’s family and friends remain in our prayers during this difficult time."

Kweisi Mfume, a Baltimore congressman, wrote:

"Rest in peace, Rev. Dr. Tim Tooten — a friend and a true man of God. Tim was an admired journalist, distinguished pastor, accomplished writer, documentary filmmaker, and a cherished teacher to so many. My condolences to his wife, Charlene, and his loving children and grandchildren during this time. We will miss you, my friend."

Lowell Melser, an ex-colleague of Dr. Tim Tooten's from WBAL-TV, shared:

"With the sad news of the passing of my friend and fellow newsperson Tim Tooten, I found this mock video he and I made when the internet went out in the newsroom 5 years ago. I will miss you my dear friend and your sense of humor. Safe home Tim."

Khiree Stewart, another anchor from WBAL-TV, wrote:

"I’m still shocked to hear this news. Tim Tooten was such a great journalist and just a great person overall. He will be missed. RIP."

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Whether in the newsroom, the classroom, or the pulpit, Tooten’s impact was far-reaching, inspiring countless individuals throughout his career.