Clifton L. Langford, born in Hattiesburg, entered the printing and newspaper field, first as a newspaper carrier and worked his way up to editor/publisher of The Bolivar Commercial.
He became editor/publisher in 1940, and was better known as "Ye Editor." He faithfully recorded the progress of Cleveland and Bolivar County for 32 years.
The C. L. Langford Scholarship Fund was established at Delta State University as a memorial in recognition of his contributions to the field of journalism.
Langford was president of the Mississippi Press Association in 1967-1968.
Through the years, The Bolivar Commercial won awards of excellence under which Langford always strived to make his paper the best.
Under the auspices of the National Press Association, Langford traveled throughout the world.
He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Cleveland, Cleveland Country Club, National Newspaper Association, Cleveland Exchange Club, Delta State Booster Club, Cleveland Volunteer Fire Department (1942-63), and many other local and state organizations. He was a Colonel on the staff of Governor Paul B. Johnson, a 32nd Degree Mason and Shriner.
Langford received numerous awards, including the Congress of Freedom, Inc. Liberty Award in 1972; Award of Recognition for Aggressive Leadership and Faithful Service as President of the Cleveland Chamber of Commerce, 1965-66; the S. E. Kossman Award in recognition of his contributions to the growth and progress of his home community, 1969.
