It was always a BIG laugh followed by an exaggerated head tilt and a BIG hug. Thank you for your familial kindness whenever I was in your presence. Your Black Media legacy is a treasure that has served our community well . Rest In Power Mr. Washington
-Sondra Roney
Jim brought true journalistic credibility to Dallas Weekly
– Norma Adams-Wade
James Washington was a stalwart of the newspaper industry and a beacon of dedication to the Black Press and small Black businesses. His legacy is one of unwavering commitment to his community. His impact extended far beyond the pages of a newspaper, touching the lives of countless individuals he met along the way.
– Mollie Finch Belt, Publisher/CEO of The Dallas Examiner
First and foremost, James Washington embodied the values of a true leader. He led not with loud words or grand gestures, but with quiet determination and unwavering integrity.
– Terry Allen, CEO, 1016 MEDIA, Founder, City Men Cook
The DFW community has lost a journalistic trailblazer in the passing of James A. Washington, Publisher Emeritus of the Dallas Weekly. James used the Dallas Weekly as a beacon of light for African Americans providing news about the Black community that many times could not be found anywhere else. I remember that James was always a thought-leader on any topic he engaged in, providing insight to everyone who crossed his path. James will be greatly missed, but his legacy will endure through the Dallas Weekly which is currently being operated by his son and daughter-in-law Patrick and Jess Washington.
– Ramona Logan
Mr. James Washington used The Dallas Weekly newspaper as a stronghold to prepare us for life outside the brick walls of the Weekly. He allowed us the freedom to grow and develop into our unique selves in a space filled with laughter and conflict around an oval table gently guided by reprimands and praise.
– Henrietta Harris, Production Manager & Sales Associate for the Dallas Weekly, 1992-2002
Jim was my mentor and very insightful. He taught me the newspaper business and gave me a lot of words of wisdom. I bent his ear so much I just knew he was going to send me a bill. He taught me to lead with my skills and not my mouth. He was and still is a very special man to me.
– Cedric Lyons
Hebrews 13:17 NIV Have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority, because they keep watch over you as those who must give an account. I’ve pondered on the words and ways that I could fully express my truest and most authentic expressions of gratitude to Mr. James A. Washington whom I lovingly called Boss. And when I reviewed our old text messages, I saw that I told him so many times that I appreciated him. I believed in him. I valued him and I’m so very grateful to have had him as my mentor. God knew we needed each other. Amen!
– Sherilyn Smith
Mr. Washington was more than a boss, he was a mentor and a father figure in my life. Anytime I’d drop in to visit with him after starting my own business he’d make time with me saying, “Padawan, come on it. What’s going on with you and how can I help?” Then he’d always ask how the wife and my daughter was doing and always ask how I was doing, genuinely asking, not that fluff asking. He called me Padawan because he always felt that I was a Jedi in training and he was my Yoda. I’ll forever miss him and forever be thankful for his presence in my life.
– Shane Hefner
James Washington was a giant in our community. I will always be grateful for his consistent and compassionate practice of supporting young journalists and writers like me. He built a successful brand and reputation that exemplified and cultivated those important principles of UMOJA (Unity), UJIMA (Collective Work & Responsibility) and UJAMAA (Cooperative Economics).
– Anyika McMillan-Herod
Mr. Washington played a significant role in my life. Not only as a Community Leader and Business Owner, but as a Man of Integrity! I’m so grateful that he took time out of his busy days to sit and give me his personal knowledge of growing my business. His voice will always resonate within me.
– Charles West, CEO CW Studios ATL
Jim Washington will be remembered as one of the valuable cornerstones of Black newspaper publishers who led in upholding and preserving what is known as “The Black Press.” He performed daily with a leadership style that was clenched-fisted and dogged on one end, yet forbearing and gentle on the other, all wrapped up in a highly respected personality of urbane and dignity. Fully equipped with his mentorship of The Dallas Weekly and the Atlanta Voice, along with his popular “Spiritually Speaking” columns, he was a resounding voice within a prolific cluster of the top African American newspapers in the country, while also conveying his influence as a visible civic and community leader. Jim will always be recognized as one of the faces of the adage, “Black Narratives Matter.”
-Gordon Jackson, Managing Editor for the Dallas Weekly, 1995-1997, 2001-2004, 2009-2013
Mr. Washington was one of the first neighbors along MLK Blvd. to welcome me to my role at the Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce. Though he knew my father and what he stood for, he wanted to make sure I was seen, heard, and most importantly, that I’m here to positively contribute to the residents of South Dallas, the Black Community in general, and Dallas as a whole. I appreciate him giving me the space to impact my community.
– Matthew L. Houston
Mr. Washington was not only a dedicated professional but a cherished friend to many. His passion for journalism and commitment to serving the community were truly inspiring. I will always remember James for his kindness, wisdom, and the positive impact he had on so many lives. Please accept my deepest condolences during this difficult time. My thoughts are with you, the family and everyone at the Dallas Weekly Newspaper as you mourn this great loss.
– Steve Shaw
James “Jim” Washington’s encouragement and fatherly wisdom has personally inspired me on so many levels! Working for him at The Weekly exposed me to understanding our community at a grassroots level. His impactful conversations and influence in journalism were a joy to witness! I’m grateful that our paths crossed, rest in heavenly power Mr. Washington, I love you!
– Keeya Vawar, Former Dallas Weekly Receptionist and Contributing Writer
Mr. James Washington was a treasure to this city in journalism and in everything he did. He always made time to talk with me as a young publisher and his contributions to Dallas and beyond will be remembered always. I was blessed to know him and learn from him.
– James Valentino Thomas II, Publisher and CEO, Southern Dallas Magazine LLC
My internship at The Dallas Weekly was short however the lessons I learned will last forever. Our Families are blessed to be blended forever because of the opportunities Mr. James Washington gave to us because he believed in us. The young black and brown children of Dallas. Mr. Washington was iconic for the way he treated everyone and the trailblazer he was is often emulated on screen. The best part is that he was an unmatched legend. Those of you know from Dallas you understand the character it takes to be A Black Man spearheading print and publishing in a part of the city that you only go to once a year. He not only gave opportunities, he gave you a voice that can bloom into your own way for the world to see. I can name more than a few so to one of the greatest in this lifetime, I appreciate you and Well Done Sir.
– Brandon A. Smith
I worked at The Dallas Weekly when I was a teenager with the summer youth program. As a young teen and looking up to my cousin (Sherilyn Smith) I would see her dedication to her work and that is why I came to The Dallas Weekly. It was truly something to believe in beyond yourself. James Washington was the first black man that I saw in a “C-Suite” leadership position and that is what stuck out to me as a young black male. My eyes witnessed what my soul wanted to become. Over the years, I would pop in the office….when you worked at The Dallas Weekly…..you’re always family. Mr. Washington’s just had his own way of saying small words of encouragement and those words with body gestures still stands with me to this day. Hearing that he is no longer with us not only saddens me, but I know his pain and suffering has ended with these words. JOB WELL DONE! I will continue to pray for Patrick and Laney and the rest of the family for strength and wisdom as these days go by.
– Jason Johnson
The relatively brief 2-3 years I actually spent with the Dallas Weekly, never really seemed like a job, because I loved it so much. It opened up a new world for me, allowing a different telling of the brand of news still reported today. Jim didn’t really seem like a Boss, until it was time to go to press and I was still writing. He was more like a big brother or friend, who by the way, helped me grow into a writer and hone skills that I benefit from today. I’ll miss our occasional banter. Jim, you helped change my life!
– Kelvin Bass, former Reporter & Photographer for the Dallas Weekly, 1997-1999
There’s a lot to be said about James Washington and how he made an incredible difference in my life on so many levels, but most importantly he has instilled in me a work ethic and determination that I carry with me today. Job well done Jim… well done.
– Katherine C Fain, former Dallas Weekly Senior Graphic Designer / Production Manager, 1995-2006
The Dallas Weekly wasn’t just a job, we laughed together, cried together, and conquered obstacles together- that’s what made us a family.” Mr. Washington, thank you for all the memories and the MANY talks we had. I will truly miss you. Love Always.
– Caprice Blair-Roberts
I am Jacquelyn “Jackie “Hill I’m proud & honored to have worked for the Dallas weekly for many years under Mr Washington’s leadership.He was a living legend. And, “Legends never die” thanks for all the beautiful memories.
– Jacquelyn Hill