Randolph D. Brandt, who spent nearly a decade as editor of The (Racine) Journal Times, died Saturday, Oct. 17, in Plano, Texas. He was 67.
A fourth-generation journalist and New Jersey native, Brandt died of complications from cancer. His death came just months after his wife of 31 years, Bonnie, died in March after a brief illness.
Brandt started as Journal Times editor on Aug. 31, 1998. During his tenure, he encouraged diversity in the newsroom and hired Sherri Jackson, the first Black desk editor at The Journal Times. He also guided the newspaper through an era of change in the industry, helping shift its focus from national news to more local coverage.
He continued in the role until his retirement in 2007, when he was succeeded by Steve Lovejoy.
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Brandt started his journalism career as a news reporter for his hometown newspaper, The Vineland Times Journal. He later worked as a reporter, bureau chief, copy editor and columnist for The Press of Atlantic City.
He also worked at newspapers in California, Connecticut, Indiana and Washington. Brandt earned his bachelor’s degree in history and master’s degree in management from Thomas Edison State University in New Jersey.
The family is planning private funeral arrangements.
