Christopher “Todd” Bailey, editor of the Hobbs News-Sun, died on Sunday, October 31. He was 49.
Diagnosed with cancer in his left leg in 2020 that resulted in his leg being amputated just above his knee, Bailey recently learned that the cancer had spread to his lungs.
Bailey grew up in Hobbs and is well remembered for his vibrant and positive personality. In an article published in the Santa Fe New Mexican the newspaper’s Deputy Managing Editor Brian Barker is quoted saying of Bailey, “He was always ready with a kind word or to lend a hand.”
After attaining a Bachelor’s Degree in Media Studies, Communication from Eastern New Mexico University, Bailey took his first job at the Hobbs News-Sun covering sports. He later worked for the Santa Fe New Mexican and the Houston Chronicle.
Upon leaving Texas he returned to New Mexico and worked at the “Kirtland Air Force Base paper Nucleus — providing support to his family as his mother underwent treatment for cancer — before finding his way back to the News-Sun in 2012,” states Phaedra Haywood author of the the Santa Fe New Mexican article. He later was appointed editor of the News-Sun.
Bailey worked throughout his illness. His powerful voice was always heard. He was honored one day before his death by the New Mexico Press Association at the organization’s annual Better Newspaper Contest, winning second place in the columns division.
The Santa Fe New Mexican quotes the post Bailey made on Facebook only several hours before his death.
Dear Facebook Nation.
Mom is on her way from Abq, and my Brother In Law and niece are on their way from DFW. I have loved getting to know you all and being a part of your lives. Thank you for all the love and support you have been giving me throughout the years. Unfortunately, I think God may be calling me home tonight. Please pray for my family during this time that they may be safely getting to me. I am grateful for all of you. Truly.Todd Bailey, Facebook
According to a post that Bailey’ s sister Danielle Bailey McCrary made on Facebook, arrangements for services are pending.
