Dr Tim Tooten Baltimore : Celebrating a Life of Impact

The Baltimore community mourns the loss of Dr Tim Tooten Baltimore, a revered journalist, pastor, and educator who dedicated over three decades to uplifting stories of education and faith. Tooten, who retired from WBAL-TV in 2023 after 35 years as the station’s chief education reporter, passed away on February 9, 2025, leaving behind a legacy etched in trust, kindness, and unwavering commitment to his craft.

Dr Tim Tooten Baltimore : A Pillar of Journalism

For generations of Maryland families, Dr. Tim Tooten Baltimore was synonymous with school closings, academic triumphs, and heartfelt storytelling. His signature segment—announcing snow-day delays while donning hats from schools across the state—became a cherished tradition, earning him the trust of students, parents, and educators alike.

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Beyond the weather updates, Tooten’s investigative journalism shone a light on systemic challenges in education. His award-winning documentaries, such as East is East (profiling African American life on Maryland’s Eastern Shore) and Africa’s Maryland (exploring Liberia’s historical ties to Baltimore), earned national acclaim, including a National Headliner Award and an Associated Press honor. Colleagues praised his ability to balance rigor with compassion, holding school leaders accountable while celebrating classroom victories.

Dr. Tim Tooten Baltimore: Pastor, Professor, and Mentor

Tooten’s impact extended far beyond the newsroom. As the founder and pastor of Harvest Christian Ministries in Nottingham, he blended spiritual guidance with community service, officiating weddings for WBAL colleagues and mentoring youth. His theological education—a Master’s from St. Mary’s Seminary and a Doctor of Ministry from Virginia Seminary—fueled his mission to uplift others, both in sermons and as an affiliate professor at Loyola University Maryland, where he taught broadcast journalism.

Even in retirement, Tooten remained active, deepening his ministry and cherishing time with his wife, Charleen, their three children, and grandchildren.

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Tributes Pour In for Dr. Tim Tooten Baltimore

The outpouring of grief and gratitude highlights Tooten’s profound influence. Former WBAL colleague Jayne Miller called him “one of the most decent, kind, respectful people one could ever meet.” While Congressman Kweisi Mfume celebrated his dual legacy as a “distinguished pastor and admired journalist”. Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott noted the city “is better because of [his] unwavering commitment”.

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Fans and colleagues alike reminisced about his warmth. Whether roasting coworkers in the newsroom or offering scripture-based advice. As Lowell Melser, a former WBAL anchor, shared: “He was the heart and soul of the 11 Newsroom”.

A Lasting Legacy

Dr. Tim Tooten Baltimore exemplified how journalism and faith can intertwine to create lasting change. From his early days as a high school DJ in Florida to his pioneering role as Baltimore’s only full-time education reporter. He championed stories that mattered, leaving an indelible mark on media, ministry, and mentorship.

As the city reflects on his legacy, one truth endures. Tim Tooten’s dedication to truth, community, and compassion will continue to inspire generations.

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