Former Deseret News publisher Jim Mortimer dies at 77

Former Deseret News publisher dies at 77

SALT LAKE CITY — Former Deseret News publisher Wm. James Mortimer has died. He was 77.

The Deseret News says Mortimer died Thursday after an undisclosed long illness.

He was the newspaper’s publisher for 15 years before retiring in 2000. He was also general manager of both Deseret Press and Deseret Book and sometimes referred to himself as “Deseret Jim.”

Mortimer did double duty as the newspaper’s publisher and editor for 11 years before stepping away from his role as editor.

Funeral services are scheduled for Wednesday.