DARKE COUNTY – For decades, Linda Moody has been a trusted voice and familiar name in Darke County journalism. Known for her dedication to community storytelling, Linda built a career defined by accuracy, compassion, and a genuine love for the people she served through her reporting. Recently, My County Link (MCL) proudly honored her remarkable contributions and the lasting impact she has made on local news.
Linda began her career in Darke County at a time when community newspapers were the heartbeat of local information. Over the years, she became a fixture at school board meetings, city council sessions, community events, and—perhaps most memorably—covering the great citizens of Darke County. She had a unique gift for weaving human interest stories that resonated with readers and showcased the heart of small-town Ohio.
“I have worked with Linda since starting in the news business in 2009,” said My County Link – Reporter & Webmaster – Clinton J Randall. “You never have to ask what she thinks of any story or situation in Darke County, but she is the best at putting personal feelings aside and writing award-winning stories without bias.”
Her reporting was not just about headlines—it is about people. Whether she highlights the achievements of local students, chronicling the history of area families, or sharing the joys and struggles of neighbors, Linda captured the true spirit of Darke County. Colleagues describe her as a mentor and friend who set an example of integrity, professionalism, and kindness.
“It has been a pleasure to work with Linda for many years,” stated MCL Co-Owner & Editor, Gaylen Blosser. “Dale Barger (MCL Co-Owner & Publisher) and I are pleased to call Linda a friend, and are also happy to have her serving as a part of My County Link.”
“Linda continues to have a significant following, and we welcome her to write for MCL for as long as she pleases,” Blosser added.
Throughout her career, Linda received numerous acknowledgments for her work, but it was the appreciation of her readers that meant the most. Residents often remarked that Linda’s stories gave them a sense of pride and connection to their community, making her work an enduring part of Darke County’s history.
“I started working for the local newspaper on April 26, 1967, almost a year after I graduated from Ansonia High School,” Linda said. “When I started out, I was a typist and proofreader and also worked on page layouts until 1974, when I was asked to become a reporter in the newsroom. I obliged, even though I was concerned that I wouldn’t be able to handle the photography aspect to which one of my co-workers said, “Oh, you’ll never have to worry about that.” Wow, was she wrong! I caught on in hardly any time at all, just as I did on many other technical skills as the years went by.”
In the early years at the newspaper, I typed on all types of machines, the first one of which seemed ancient, and then an IBM machine and finally, computers,” Moody added. “The newspaper business was the best move I ever made in my life. I enjoyed meeting and interviewing people.”
When asked about one of her most memorable stories that she has covered, Linda remembers driving down a back road from the northern Darke County area with mounds of snow piled high in the ditches on both sides after another storm that hit the area in January 1978.
My County Link recognizes her invaluable service to journalism and to the people of Darke County. Her dedication continues to leave a lasting mark on local news and set a high standard for future generations of reporters.
Thank you, Linda, for telling Darke County’s stories with honesty, warmth, and unwavering dedication. Your legacy will continue to inspire both journalists and readers for years to come.
You can’t mention Darke County without thinking of ‘The Legendary’ – Linda Moody and her amazing son, Jamie!
