Longtime Midland Reporter-Telegram Publisher Charlie Spence Remembered as 'Force for Good'

Spence led with kindness, championed community during 23-year tenure as publisher

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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Charles "Charlie" Spence, publisher of the Midland Reporter-Telegram from 1984 through 2007, passed away on February 15, 2026 at the age of 87. Spence was remembered by former colleagues and community members as a "gentleman" who used his position to support local nonprofits, celebrate the city's diversity, and ensure the newspaper was deeply involved in all aspects of the Midland community.

Why it matters

As publisher during a pivotal time in Midland's history, Spence played a key role in shaping the city's growth and community spirit through his leadership of the local newspaper. His commitment to serving the community and championing local causes left a lasting impact that will be felt for generations.

The details

Spence was known for his daily routine of visiting every department in the newsroom to greet employees. He was deeply involved in over 30 local nonprofits, often serving as a board member, and was a two-time campaign chair for the United Way of Midland. Spence was also a licensed pilot who volunteered with Paws 'n Pilots, transporting adopted dogs to their new owners. Even after retiring as publisher in 2007, Spence remained active in the community, recruiting the neighboring Odessa American's publisher to join Midland's Habitat for Humanity board.

  • Spence served as publisher of the Midland Reporter-Telegram from 1984 through 2007.
  • Spence passed away on February 15, 2026 at the age of 87.

The players

Charles "Charlie" Spence

Publisher of the Midland Reporter-Telegram from 1984 through 2007 who was remembered as a "gentleman" and "force for good" in the Midland community.

Dave Wedel

Succeeded Spence as publisher of the Midland Reporter-Telegram in 2007, continuing Spence's legacy of community involvement and support.

Jane Wolf

Former executive director of the United Way of Midland, where Spence served as a longtime board member and campaign chair.

Bobby Burns

Served three terms as mayor of Midland and praised Spence's commitment to an "unencumbered fourth estate" and using his position to help the community.

Pat Canty

Publisher of the neighboring Odessa American, who remembered Spence as the "epitome of a newspaper publisher" and a true "joy" to know.

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What they’re saying

“Charlie was fair and considerate of all of the reporters at the MRT. He was one of those gentlemen who walked what he talked. He wouldn't just talk about doing good in the community; he went out and did it himself, especially through his nonprofit work. He was gracious and listened to everyone he met.”

— Georgia Temple, Retired Reporter-Telegram entertainment editor (mrt.com)

“Charlie was just one of those old-fashioned, honest newspeople who care for his community. He championed the Hispanic community; he got involved with us. It was his way of making sure the community was whole and celebrated in all different ways. He wasn't afraid to put items from different communities on the front page. We lived in a time when people didn't care for that sometimes, but the news was the news, whatever and wherever it was.”

— Jose Cuevas, Local businessman and former city councilperson (mrt.com)

“Charlie was the most wonderful person. Always smiling, always upbeat, always on the go. He cared so much about his community and how he and the newspaper could help make it a better place for all.”

— Pat Canty, Publisher of the Odessa American (mrt.com)

What’s next

The Midland community plans to honor Spence's legacy through a memorial service and celebration of his life and contributions to the city.

The takeaway

Charlie Spence's unwavering commitment to serving the Midland community through his leadership of the local newspaper and extensive volunteer work left an indelible mark on the city. His legacy as a "gentleman" and "force for good" will continue to inspire others to follow in his footsteps of championing local causes and bringing people together.