The 2024 inductees for the Todd County High Schools’ Hall of Fame have been announced.
Hall of Fame Chairman Eddie Simons said an anonymous selection committee chose the names and the nominations were solicited publicly this year and in past years.
This year’s honorees include: Dr. Todd E. Campbell, Linda Murrey Cox, Dr. Arvin Crafton, Thomas F. Harper, Jr., and John Emmett Walton.
Simons added that recipients or their families will receive the awards at an event in early 2025. Those who were nominated, but not selected this year, will remain eligible indefinitely for selection. Future nominations can be made by getting a form from the Todd County Board of Education or calling Eddie Simons at (270) 878-0508.
Dr. Todd E. Campbell
Dr. Campbell graduated from Todd County Central High School in 1988 with honors as a member of the National Beta, Student Council, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Future Teachers of America, and Coed-y clubs. Todd was a three-sport athlete as a member of the football, baseball, and basketball teams. He received a BS degree from Western Kentucky University, an M.Ed. from Trevecca Nazarene University, and his Doctor of Education in Leadership and Professional Practice. He began his teaching career in Bowling Green, KY, and then moved to Tennessee serving the children of Nashville. In his 20 years in administration, he has served both Metro-Nashville Public Schools and Williamson County Schools as assistant principal, athletic principal, and Executive Principal of Franklin HS and Independence HS. In 2015, Dr. Campbell was recognized by the Tennessee Department of Education as the Principal of the Year of the State of Tennessee. Dr. Campbell has served as an adjunct professor at TNU teaching such classes as Urban Perspectives of Education, as well as Cultural Diversity and Leadership. He currently serves as the CEO of a non-profit that focuses on education for the entire family. His commitment to Todd County and TCCHS continues today with his willingness to provide equipment and scholarships to improve the lives of our youth. This generosity also includes donations to the Todd County Senior Citizens Center, First Baptist Missionary Church, and other community activities and groups (often anonymously). Dr. Campbell is also a member of the National Education Association, Tennessee Non-profit Association, My Brother’s Keeper National Association, a New Profit Education national cohort, and a member of the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity.
Linda Murrey Cox
Mrs. Cox is a lifelong Todd County resident and a 1970 TCCHS graduate. During high school, she was an exemplary student and active in numerous clubs and organizations. Following high school, she attended college and had a career prior to her marriage. She is the mother of two sons, Toby and Travis, and the wife of Douglas Allen Cox. All are TCCHS graduates. Linda has volunteered in the Todd County Schools leading the South Todd, Todd Middle, and TCCHS PTO organizations as President. She served on the TCCHS Site Based Decision Making Council, and numerous committees, and chaired numerous events. Linda has led Todd County children of all ages to develop lifetime skills through the 4-H Shooting Sports Program. Teaching and using the utmost care to safely and correctly use firearms, she has encouraged the 4-Hers to achieve with area and state recognition. Her interest didn’t stop when her children became adults. She has continued to lead and teach children for over twenty years. She has received lifetime achievement awards, honors, and recognitions from many groups for her dedication to teaching our Todd County children.
Dr. Arvin Crafton
Dr. Crafton graduated from Elkton High School in 1952 and began his academic journey at Murray State College that fall. During his time there, he earned numerous accolades and recognition for his achievements. After completing his bachelor’s degree, Dr. Crafton returned to Todd County High School, where he devoted the next eight years to teaching and inspiring students. He continued his education at the University of Georgia, where he earned both his master’s and doctorate degrees. In 1966, Dr. Crafton joined the faculty at Murray State University, serving as the director of student teaching and shaping the next generation of educators. Dr. Crafton’s commitment to service extended beyond the classroom. As an active member of the Murray Lions Club, he held numerous leadership roles and served as chairman of the Kentucky Lions All-State Band. Under his guidance, he assembled a Lions Club-sponsored high school band composed of students from across Kentucky, leading them to participate in International Lions Club Conventions and travel throughout the United States. Dr. Crafton was also a devoted member of the First United Methodist Church in Murray, a Kentucky Colonel, and a proud U.S. Army veteran. His life was a testament to hard work, service, and a passion for enriching the lives of others.
Thomas F. Harper, Jr.
Thomas F. Harper Jr. was a member of Todd County Central High School’s first graduating class in 1964. Mr. Harper played both baseball and basketball. Was awarded most valuable basketball player and all-district team his senior year. After high school, he attended Western Kentucky University earning a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, and Rank 1 certification in administration. Coach Harper began his teaching and coaching career at Clifty Elementary and then on to TCCHS. There he coached football, basketball, baseball, field & track, and tennis. As a head basketball coach, he carried the only team to the Sweet 16 state tournament and remains the winningest coach in TCCHS history. He was Assistant Principal, AD, and Principal at TCCHS. Principal of Ohio County High School as well as teacher and head basketball coach at Rossview High School, Clarksville, TN. Mr. Harper is known for his contribution to the community, inaugural co-chair City/County Park board, founder of Summer/Saturday Sports Camp, helped develop Project Graduation at TCCHS, member of TCCHS Athletic Hall of Fame, recognized as Hometown Hero, Heritage Bank scholarship honoree, chairman of Todd County High Schools’ Hall of Fame, served on Todd County Health Board, Todd County Deputy Judge Executive, and a Commissioned Kentucky Colonel. He is an active member of Petrie Memorial Methodist Church where he has served and chaired many committees.
John Emmett Walton
Mr. Walton was a man whose legacy is defined by hard work, community service, and unwavering dedication to others. Born and raised on his family farm in Allensville, Todd County, Kentucky, John’s love for the land and a strong work ethic shaped his life. A talented athlete, he played baseball at the college level and continued to enjoy sports, hunting, fishing, and writing poetry throughout his life. John graduated from Guthrie High School in 1961. His commitment to education led him to earn degrees from the University of Kentucky and Murray State University. His career spanned roles in education, speech and language therapy, and mental health, including serving as an assistant professor at the University of Arkansas and later as director of a mental health facility in Tennessee. Returning to Todd County in 1974, John balanced farming with serving the community, working for the local school system and Hopkinsville Community College. His public service began on the Elkton City Council in 1992, and he served as mayor from 1998 to 2006. During his tenure, he spearheaded vital projects like the Logan Todd Regional Water Commission, attracted businesses like Novelis, and supported career training for local students. He secured grants for emergency services and served on countless charitable boards, always championing the well-being of his community. John’s life was a testament to service, integrity, and love for others. His impact on Todd County and the lives he touched will be remembered for generations. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, dedication, and community spirit.
