News-Topic editor Ritchie Starnes dies unexpectedly
Jul. 10—LENOIR — The News-Topic, with deep sadness, announces the unexpected death of Ritchie Starnes, who served as editor since 2021. He was also editor of the Forest City Daily Courier since 2019.
He died Friday, July 7, while on vacation in Folly Beach, South Carolina.
Starnes had worked for newspapers for more than 24 years, and had earned awards from the North Carolina Press Association.
He had worked as an investigator before transitioning to journalism. Starnes had worked at newspapers in Elizabeth City, Union County, and Stanly County.
Starnes grew up in Charlotte, and came to appreciate life in smaller, rural communities. He was passionate about rescue dogs, and lived in Gilkey.
"This has been a tragic, unexpected loss for The Daily Courier and the Lenoir News-Topic," said Lori Spurling, Daily Courier and Lenoir News-Topic publisher. "Ritchie had a reputation as a strong newshound with a commitment to accuracy and fairness. He was an aggressive editor with a nose for news. He led by example and was very focused."
Spurling continued, "This is a huge loss to our newspapers and the communities he served. Ritchie was somewhat of a private person. However, anyone that knew him understood his love for animals, family, friends and Elvis."
Memorial service arrangements are incomplete and will be announced later.
