The McClatchy Co. named veteran newspaper executive J. Patrick Doyle, 55, to replace Sexton.

Doyle is currently president and publisher of The Palladium-Item of Richmond, Ind., owned by the Gannett Co., Inc.

Sexton, 58, has worked in the newspaper industry for 38 years. He became Daily News publisher eight years ago.

Sexton said he had been contemplating his retirement for some time, and he plans to relocate to the Lower 48 to live closer to family and friends.

Doyle has been publisher in Richmond since 2001 and worked in newspapers for 30 years.