Jim Todd held court in downtown Jackson, Friday.
The retired United States District Court Judge for the Western District of Tennessee had the last word after the United States courthouse at 111 South Highland Ave., officially became the James D. Todd United States Courthouse.
“This is far more than I would have ever anticipated … far more than I deserve,” Todd said. “I will never forget this day. Earlier, I said this was like going to my own funeral, but I’ve since decided that’s not true. This is not like a funeral; this is more like going to heaven while you are still alive.
“I hope when you come in this building in years to come you think of me kindly, because that’s the way I will be thinking of you.”
In December 2021, U.S. Rep. David Kustoff (TN-08) introduced a bill to name the courthouse in Jackson after Judge James D. Todd.
This measure was supported by every member of the U.S. House of Representatives in the Tennessee delegation.
Kustoff was sworn in by Judge Todd in 2006 when he became the U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee.
Congressman Kustoff, who was unable to attend the ceremony, spoke by video from Normandy, France, where he attended the 80th anniversary of D-Day.
A native of Henderson County, Judge Todd dedicated his life to serving his community and country.
For almost four decades, Judge Todd served as the District and Senior District Judge on the United States District Court for the Western District of Tennessee.
He was nominated by President Ronald Reagan in June 1985 and confirmed by the U.S. Senate a month later on July 10 with no objection.
Judge Todd retired after 36 years of service.
While Judge Todd took time to recognize family and associates, his influence went beyond the walls of a court of law.
“His knowledge of the law, integrity, and professionalism over his distinguished 36-year career on the federal bench have undoubtedly earned Judge Todd the admiration of peers, law enforcement, and the community,” said Tyreece Miller, U.S. Marshal Western District of Tennessee. “Just look around this room. His influence is undeniable.”
From a professional standpoint, Miller said Judge Todd has been a guiding force in his career development with his fatherly advice.
“I was only limited by my imagination,” Miller said. “He encouraged and helped change my trajectory from Police Officer to Presidentially appointed.
“The United States Marshals Service is entrusted with the responsibility of protecting the American, federal judicial system and its institutions. Henceforth, when I report to duty and enter the James D. Todd U.S. Courthouse, it will be even more meaningful to me because this institution bears the name of a man who has been more than a friend to me.
“A person who TRULY stands for justice for all.”
(PHOTO: Judge Jim D. Todd and wife Jeanie. Inside story, Judge Todd speaking during naming of U.S. Courthouse)
