David Jarrett Hedges, lifelong resident of Spencer, former owner of Spencer Newspapers and Publisher of The Times Record and Roane County Reporter, died Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2026, at the age of 67.
He was born in Spencer, son of the late G. Foster Hedges, Jr. and Mary Helen O’Conor Hedges. He graduated from West Virginia University and soon returned to Spencer where he raised his family while focusing on local journalism and public service. He served on multiple boards throughout the years, including the Roane County Chamber of Commerce, Roane General Hospital, Spencer Rotary Club, and West Virginia Press Association.
His weekly column, Between the Lines, often shared his reflections on life, family, and the local community. Under his leadership, the Times Record and Roane County Reporter were among the most decorated weekly newspapers in the state. His passion for local journalism led to The Times Record and Roane County Reporter being the first weekly newspaper to win the West Virginia Newspaper of the Year in both 2015 and 2016. In addition, David was awarded the Adam R. Kelly Premier Journalist Award in 2014, one of the highest honors bestowed by the West Virginia Press Association.
David, a dedicated member of Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, valued his family and friends beyond measure. His most cherished time was with those he loved. His dry humor was appreciated by many and his ability to recall memories and details others had long forgotten left people laughing – and wondering how he remembered such things.
A lifelong sports enthusiast, he was a loyal follower of the WVU Mountaineers and the Cincinnati Reds. No matter what the outcome, David’s loyalty never wavered and provided spirited debate with family and friends.
Surviving include his wife, Starr Hedges; sons, Chad (Kim) Board, Andrew (Annie) Hedges; daughter, Marie Hedges; and five grandchildren, Caleb, Connor, Katelyn, Foster, and Xavier. In addition, he is survived by siblings, Daniel, Marilyn (William), Christine (Thomas), Mary (Josephier), John (Karen), Anne, and Katherine (Bruce), along with beloved nieces and nephews who always appreciated an Uncle David joke.
David also had a special relationship with his in-laws, Ola Jean Parsons and Donald (Shirley) Cole. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, James Gregory.
A Mass of Christian burial is set for 3 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 3 at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church with the Rev. Chet Artysiewicz from Glenmary officiating. Visitation will be at the Holy Redeemer Catholic Church Parish Hall from 11 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family would like to support two of David’s passions: education and faith. Donations may be made to the Roane County College Scholarship Foundation, Inc, c/o Paul Hughes, 804 Summit St., Spencer, WV or Holy Redeemer Catholic Church of Spencer.
