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Linda Gallagher
March 22, 2009
Dear Rhoda,
Tom and I were so sorry to learn of Derek's passing. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you, Meigra and Robin during this very sad time.
Virginia Maloney
March 1, 2009
Dear Mrs. Meyers,
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your husband. I have such wonderful memories of him in our travels across Europe when we were studying in Switzerland. He had an adventurous spirit and easy going nature that made him a great leader of our troupe. He was an excellent professor and his love of art spilled onto us all. Most of the artists and artwork I can discuss are because of his teachings. My heart goes out to you and your family during this time. He will be very missed by myself and fellow Tech students.
Sandy Bowman
February 28, 2009
Dear Rhoda, Jane, Meg, and Robin,
Our deepest sympathies go to you in the days and months ahead as you grieve the loss of your husband, brother, and father. He was my cousin, and I looked up to him. As a young child, I admired him. When the Myers family would come to our house for Christmas, I especially remember Derek with great fondness.
He was compassionate, had a heart of gold, and I wish I could have known him better as an adult, but we lived so far apart. I know I could have learned a lot from him.
From the entries here, it is plain to see he was much admired and was an inspiration to those who were touched by his life and caring ways. He will truly be missed by so many, including me. Please accept my sympathy, love, and prayers during this sad, sad time. God's blessings to you all.
Sandy, Britt, and Amanda
Barry Butler
February 27, 2009
The Myers Family,
It was my honor to have known Derek and it was always a pleasure being around him. When I was still in the Roanoke Valley, I sat in on the Payday Lending Taskforce that Derek was a part of. Derek was committed to challenging injustice and the exploitation of the least among us. Our loss is heaven's gain. May Derek's memory inspire us all,
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Margaret Reagh
February 26, 2009
Dear Aunt Rhoda, Meg, and Rob,
I just found about about your terrible loss from my mother. Our family's prayers and thoughts are with you all at this difficult time. Our uncle will be missed.
Love to you all,
Blaine Wiltse
February 26, 2009
I was deeply saddened to learn of Prof. Myers' passing. He was a kind man who was passionate about teaching and helping young people. Personally, I will always credit him for instilling the deep appreciation for renaissance and impressionist art that I have today. I know that my time spent in Europe, and especially Italy, would not have been nearly as rewarding both educationally and culturally had it not been for the lessons of Prof. Myers. I will always remember him fondly when I think of those times.
Kitty Malcom
February 26, 2009
Dear Rhoda, Jane, Meg & Rob,
I was very saddened to hear of Derek's passing. I remember way back when, and the Myers Troup would show up in El Paso, the house full, lots of cooking, Jane rubbing her mother's feet, and sitting on Derek's lap, thinking, "Wow, he's tall." I've read the many tributes and, yes, he was a very fine man indeed. My heart felt sympathies to you all on such a tremendous loss.
With much love, Kitty Malcom
Brenda Lucado
February 26, 2009
Rhoda,
I am sorry to hear of your loss. My prayers are for you and your family.
arthur hirsh
February 26, 2009
Dear Rhoda,
I'm so sorry to hear of Derek's passing. I remember him well from our time working together in Riva 11 years ago. And even though we haven't kept up since I moved to Vienna, Austria in 2000, Derek left a deep impression on me. He was kind, generous, open, and caring. I give you my deepest sympathy in dealing with this terrible loss.
Ann Craig
February 26, 2009
Rhoda, I am so sorry to hear of Derek's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of loss.
Peggy and Theta Bowden
February 26, 2009
Rhoda,
Theta and I extend our heartfelt sympathy. Derek's gentleness and compassion were evident. He had a smile that could light up Lane Stadium and it saddens me to think of this next year without him. I first met Derek in his role of department head when I was new to Virginia Tech. He had such a warmth and welcoming manner. The love the two of you exhibited through your gentleness and warm spirits is embedded in my memory. I recall your stories of opening your kitchen cabinets only to find cattle skulls or something to that effect. Art definitely enriches our lives :). Please know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. We never really lose those that we love dearly. May Derek's love and memory carry you through these difficult times and may God comfort you. This is truly a story of a life well lived. Our love and God's blessings are with you.
Joy Rosenthal
February 26, 2009
Dear Rhoda,
Rhoda,
I remember Derek as a very mindful person who always took great care in helping his colleges and students in the art and art history department at Virginia Tech. He seem to think of others first. He wanted to help the people not only in his community have richer lives, but those outside, such as the children in Nicaragua. My condolences to you and your family, Joy Rosenthal
Jennifer K. Martin (formerly Evans at VT)
February 25, 2009
I am so saddened to hear about the loss of Professor Myers. Derek was one of my advisors and head of the department when I was studying Art at VT. He and others in the department were so supportive of me and my art and I am sure Derek was instrumental in awarding me a William M. Hahn Memorial Scholarship and several Va. Tech scholarships for my work. He was always so good to me and always so kind and gentle spirited with everyone. This just breaks my heart to hear and my sympathy goes out to his family and all who knew him.
Shirley Summers
February 25, 2009
Dear Rhoda and family,
I was so sorry to hear of your loss.
I always enjoyed the visits I had with
Derek. I'm sorry that we did not live
closer and able to be more a part of each other's lives. I remember the last time he visited ElPaso and what a pleasure it was to talk with him. You are in my prayers at this time as well as your family. God Bless, Derek's cousin, Shirley Summers
Sandra Long
February 25, 2009
Dear Rhoda and Meg,
I was stunned to learn of Derek's passing. I have such wonderful memories of working with him in the Art Dept., when we taught a Foundations Course. He was so fun and creative and supportive. I also remember how supportive he and you were when Meg was in my drama program at BHS. I cannot begin to imagine how much he will be missed by his family and by Blacksburg. I will always be grateful for the wonderful letter of recommendation he wrote for me when I moved to Maine. My prayers are with you and Meg. God bless.
Lillie Carter
February 25, 2009
I was so sorry to hear of
Derek's death. I was a classmate of his at Galva High School. Was good to see him at our 50th class reunion. My prayers are with his family.
Audrey Burnett
February 25, 2009
What a great loss to the New River Valley!! I worked with Derek as part of my dissertation as a VA Tech graduate student, as well as part of the Virginia Interfaith Council. Derek was a terrific guy with a heart of gold. We certainly need more individuals as dedicated to the community as Derek. His devotion to his family, career, faith, and community should be an inspiration to all who met Derek. He will be sorely missed.
Jim Burke
February 25, 2009
I met Derek through the Virginia Interfaith Center, where he was known for his compassion, kindness and wisdom. We shall miss him deeply. Our prayers are with you.
Ginger Young
February 25, 2009
Dear Rhoda,
Anna and I are very sorry to hear of Derek's death. We have fond memories of him from LMLC, and we wish you two had had many more years together. Peace.
Ann Masters
February 25, 2009
Rhoda and family,
What a sweet, quiet gentleman was your Derek. He was a joy to know and his art so rich and fresh. He was so proud of his student's work and so modest about his own. His manner was gentle and his presence so welcome. I loved that smile! He is not forgotten. God's blessings to you all at this new journey.
Jim Richardson
February 25, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
JoAnn McClelland
February 25, 2009
We are sorry to learn of Derek's death and extend our sympathy to all of his family. I was a high school classmate of his and we enjoyed visiting with you both at our last Class of '55 in Illinois.Sincerely, John and JoAnn [Conrad] McClelland.
gerry creedon
February 25, 2009
prayers and gratitude
jim bier
February 25, 2009
Rhoda,
I am so blessed to have gotten to know you and Derek a bit on our Nicaragua trip. I was so excited to hear he was planning to come home 3/1. His death, coming after so much hard work on the part of both of you for him to regain his health is such a blow. I am happy to note that you are in such a caring community that will support you in every way possible.
Kaylene Kurth
February 25, 2009
Rhoda, Meg, Rob & Jane; I am so sad that we have lost Derek. He was such a special person, always kind and thoughtful even as a teenager. Rhoda, it is so very painful when we lose our life mate but knowing that Derek is safe in the arms of our Lord will help you through this great sorrow. All of you are in my thoughts and prayers. With my love to all of you, Kaylene
Ann Rasmussen
February 25, 2009
Dear Rhoda,
It was my honor to have known Derek when I worked at the VA Interfaith Center. He was one of the most gentle people I have ever met. His life itself was a lesson that countless people learned from, not just his students in the classroom. His passing is a loss, but for everyone who knew him, we each treasure something that he taught us. My prayers for comfort and peace are with you.
Mary Hunter
February 25, 2009
Rhoda,
I was sorry to hear of your loss. May the memories of your time together bring you peace and carry you through the days ahead of you. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Stan Farthing
February 25, 2009
I was privileged to work with Derek on the Board of the Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy. In that work I not only had the pleasure of getting to interact with him, but I also had the benefit of seeing his love for God and neighbor and his dedication to serving the least of these. He will be missed.
Carolyn Sutton
February 25, 2009
Rhoda, I am so sad to learn of Derek's passing. Derek was a classmate of mine. You have my deepest sympathy.
Jeanne and Dave Roper
February 24, 2009
There are no words to express our sadness. Derek gave so much to so many, and did it with willingness and grace and passion and humor. We were blessed to work closely with him on the VICCC board, where he gave so generously to children and families who have very little. We were doubly blessed to have him and his beloved Rhoda as cherished friends. Rhoda, our hearts are with you and your family.
Sheila Winett
February 24, 2009
I am so sad that Derek is no longer with us. It is a shock. He was a kind and gentle soul who cared deeply for others. The hard work he put into efforts to make life easier for others will be greatly missed! I really enjoyed the opportunity I had to work with him on the VICCC board. Rhoda, my heart breaks for your loss.
K. Ferguson
February 24, 2009
It was a pleasure to work with Derek on the Corridor Committee. He was a calm, pleasant man who helped us look at all available sides of an issue before choosing a stand. He had a working knowledge of this Town that will be greatly missed.
Marvin Blecher
February 24, 2009
Derek was a warm, wonderful person and will be missed by all who knew him. My heart goes out to his family and especially Rhoda. I fully understand what an overwhelming loss this is.
Chris Lawrence
February 24, 2009
I was sadened to hear of the loss of Councilman Myers. It was a pleasure to work with him in his new role in the community on Council. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife and family.
The children celebrate your life Derek
February 24, 2009
Gary Worley
February 24, 2009
Rhoda,
Please accept my sincere thoughts for you and for your family. Derek's passing causes me to reflect on my days as an undergraduate art student and the time I spent with "Mr. Myers" who was my instructor for painting, printmaking, and drawing. His patience and genuine interest in my progress as a student will always be part of my memory of him. His friendly smile and good nature toward others is something we should all aspire to in our lives.
Robin DeBord
February 24, 2009
I was especially saddened to hear of the passing of Derek Myers. He was the one teacher who had the greatest impact on my life. He opened the door to ART for me. I was a Psych major at VT, and needed an easy humanities course, for a quick A. I picked Art Appreciation, and Derek was teaching it. Little did I know that this would be life-changing. I was enthralled with what I was seeing and near the end of the course, Prof Myers came up to me and told me that I needed to be an Art Major. I laughed and said, "oh no, I can't even draw a straight line!" He said "Nonsense! I can teach you how to draw." So I took him up on it, and he DID teach me how to draw. I became an Art Major, and thrived on it- all guided by Prof. Myers. Since that time, my life has been formed around my art, and I owe it all to Derek Myers. Thank you, Professor Myers! You will never be forgotten.
Linda Webb Hinson
February 24, 2009
Dear Myers Family, I was a student of Derek's in the 80's and was so saddend to hear the news of his passing. He helped me with my undergraduate research and was my favorite professor while I was at Tech. I am now an art teacher myself and I consider him instrumental in my career. Such a kind and giving man. My thoughts are with you.
Mr. & Mrs. W. Richard Shelton
February 24, 2009
We are sorry to hear of the passing of Mr. Myers. May God comfort you and your family at this time. Hold onto the special times and memories that you shared together.
Hara Misra
February 24, 2009
We are so sorry to hear about your loss. Derek truly embodied the spirit of service - a true gentleman and scholar, and always stood up for his neighbors in need. He was a great advocate for our community. Biju and I will miss him and his advice. It was a privilage to have known him. We pray for his soul to be in peace. Our prayers and thoughts are with you Rhoda.
Jerome Long
February 24, 2009
I was very saddened by the news of Derek's passing. I had not seen him for several years, but remember him as the real deal and a great human.
Jamie Guth
February 24, 2009
I was an art student of Professor Myers at Virginia Tech, and the news of his passing brought back wonderful memories of his teachings and support in my career goals. What a kind soul. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and dear friends.
Elaine Powers
February 24, 2009
Rhoda,
I am so very sorry to hear of your husband's death. God bless.
Martha Foy
February 24, 2009
To the Myers Family,
As one of Derek's former students (early '80s), I must say that he was a wonderfully kind and gentle man and an exceptional teacher. I know that he will be greatly missed. I am saddened to hear of his untimely death and very sorry for your loss.
Tom Wilson
February 24, 2009
Rhoda -
We are all saddened by Derek's sudden passing. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Ryan Rinn
February 24, 2009
Derek truly embodied the spirit of service and always stood up for his neighbors in need. He was a great advocate for social justice, a mentor, and friend. My prayers and thoughts are with you Rhoda. The Interfaith Center mourns the loss of a wonderful man.
Dick Daugherty
February 24, 2009
After recuperating so well over the past weeks, this is a shock that will take some time to absorb. The thoughts of everyone associated with Derek through his work with Virginia Tech's Business Technology Center are with you, Rhonda.
Janet Niewald David Crane
February 24, 2009
Dear Rhoda, Janet and I are so very sorry to hear this news of Derek's passing. It is hard to express or account for his positive impact on our lives. He was a remarkably unselfish, giving and caring person, who was a wonderful teacher and mentor. Derek was a very important and respected leader and teacher in our art & art history department for many years. His recent election to the Blacksburg Town Council only further demonstrated his dedication to contribution to the community and the betterment of peoples lives. He will truly be missed. Our heart
felt sympathies go out to you and your family.
Amy Splitt
February 24, 2009
What a good guy he was. This is very sad news. 72 is far too young to go for someone so vibrantly engaged with his community. Deepest sympathy to his family, friends and colleagues.
Pam Vickers
February 24, 2009
Dear Rhoda and Family,
We are deeply saddened to hear of Derek's sudden passing. He was an inspirational individual and always so kind to Zach. You are in our prayers. Pam, Roy, and Zach Vickers
Katy Irene St. Marie
February 24, 2009
What a loss! This giant man had a giant heart - full of love for children and for justice. We were blessed to have him among us.
Marilia and Mike Deisenroth
February 24, 2009
Dear Rhoda, we are shocked to hear about Derek passing. You and your family are in our prayers.
Kathy Pinkerton
February 24, 2009
I am deeply grieved Derek is gone. This is a huge loss to his family and community, he is profoundly missed.
Michelle Homer
February 24, 2009
Professor Myers,
You will be grately missed and never forgotten. You taught me so much in Life Drawing and I always enjoyed our discussions. Your family is in my prayers.
Jane Harrison
February 24, 2009
Derek was one of the wonderful people whom I met when I started working for the School of the Arts at Virginia Tech. He was gentle, kind, insightful, and a wonderful leader. He will be missed, but remembered well.
With deepest sympathy,
Jane Harrison
Mary Wells
February 24, 2009
Rhoda - I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your husband. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Joy Compton
February 24, 2009
Rhoda and family,
My prayers are with you. I am so sorry for your loss. Know that you have the concern of all who care for you.
Reba Crawford
February 24, 2009
Rhoda
I am so sorry for your loss. I have been down that road and I know what it is like. I will keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers
Brenda Sluss
February 24, 2009
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Jane Aronson
February 24, 2009
Derek, your passing is a huge loss for all of us who've met you. You were an inspiration to me, letting me know how important our town and environment are. Blessings.
Charles Baugham
February 24, 2009
Rhoda,
I worked with Derek on the Virginia Interfaith Board for Public Policy. He was a huge man physcially, but a gentle caring spirit of a man. Our board will truly miss him; our prayers are with you and your family.
Andrew Sutherland
February 24, 2009
Meyers Family,
I am so sorry to hear about Derek's passing, Maggi and I (Drew) were sunday school teachers in the room beside Derek's class in Luther Memorial a few years back before moving to Roanoke. Derek was always happy, I recall him being excited to get back to church after knee surgery to be with the Sunday school children. Such a wonderful and compassionate man, he will be missed. May the Lord Jesus Christ bless you in this time of loss.
Robert Graham
February 24, 2009
Dear Rhoda and family,
I was shocked to hear about his death. He was a great drawing professor and I enjoyed teaching with him. He was always concerned about the students first, faculty second. Which is very rare these days. I will miss him.
Thomas Howard
February 23, 2009
Dear Rhoda,
I was shocked and saddened on hearing about Derek's death late this afternoon.
I came to know him well when we taught at Riva together. He was such a kind, gracious and talented person whose presence in my life I will deeply miss.
Michael Kirk
February 23, 2009
Rhoda, Robin and Meg....I am sorry to hear about the loss of Derek...having known your family for a good amount of my youth and adult like ,I know he will be missed. I will keep the family in my prayers
Jessica Folkart & Craig Brians
February 23, 2009
Dear Rhoda,
Craig and I are so shocked and saddened by Derek's passing. We really valued his concern, receptiveness and support for improving our community. We'll especially miss the smile and kind words he always had when we'd see him on Sunday. Our hearts are with you and your family.
Catherine Andrews
February 23, 2009
Derek Myers was my advisor and my life drawing professor in 2002. He was such a gentle, good man, and an amazing artist. He was my favorite professor - someone who encouraged me immensely. I'm not surprised to learn he was a man of deep faith - it definitely showed. Blacksburg lost a great one.
Thank you, Mr. Myers for being a friend and mentor.
Sarah Meadows
February 23, 2009
Dear Rhoda,
Edith Sloop called me a few minutes ago and told me the news of Mr. Myers' passing. I am currently at a loss for words. "I'm so sorry," just isn't sufficient. I cannot picture a world without Derek Myers. I can only imagine the Lord shouting, "Well done, good and faithful servant!" as He welcomed a dear dear friend Home. You all have been like family through the years...I am keeping you in my prayers now and in the days ahead. With love and deepest sympathy, Sarah
Pat Ballard Coreen Mett
February 23, 2009
Rhoda and family,
Our prayers are with you. It hurts to think of your loss. Know that you have the concern of all who love and care for you.
Alice Mountjoy
February 23, 2009
It was sad to hear of Derek's passing today. He was a faithful member of the board of the Virginia Interfaith Center and a quiet advocate for social justice. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
Kelly M. Sisson
February 23, 2009
I valued Derek's insight, wisdom, passion for social concerns, and appreciation for the arts. He was an artist of life -- one with the courage of his convictions. He will be missed.
With gratitude ...
Zelma & Charlie Harris
February 23, 2009
Rhoda, Megra and Rob,
Charlie and I were so sad to hear of Derek's death. He was such a special man, and so kind to us. We enjoyed such good times and laughs with him and Rhoda at "After Six" dinners and at church functions. We will miss him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Jeff Phillips
February 23, 2009
I am saddened to hear of the loss of Professor Myers, he was a kind man and a great teacher. He helped me get into the art department and Graphic Design program, without which I would be nowhere today.
cheyenne walters
February 23, 2009
he was so nice and was so helthy why did he have to go.
Martha (Shull) Hasselbach
February 23, 2009
He and his wife welcomed me when I first came to VT in 1999 and went to church with them. I also had him as a professor later on. Prayers are with his family at this time.
Abigail Convery
February 23, 2009
I always admired Derek's willingness to jump into the issues with an open mind. He will be missed.
Bobbie Littlefield
February 23, 2009
Derek's life was a wonderful reflection of his religious faith. He was exceptionally conscientious and compassionate; willing to work long hours for this community and for children and families with limited resources, as well as for persons who are often excluded. He will be missed dearly.
Ray Kass
February 23, 2009
Dear Rhoda, Megra and Robin,
Jerrie and I send our heartfelt condolences to you at this very sad time. Derek was a wonderful mentor and colleague. He will be missed by all those who were fortunate enough to share his compassionate and warm friendship- especially the many students who benefited from his patience and good council.
Mary Elmore
February 23, 2009
I am sorry to hear about this great loss, my thoughts and prayers are with his family.
Jennifer Collins
February 23, 2009
I worked at Mish Mish for 8 years and have fond memories of Derek as a customer. He was always positive and encouraging to me as an artist as well.
February 23, 2009
Rhoda,
I am so sorry to hear about Derek. I wish you peace and comfort at this time.
Maxine Lyons
Nathan Kranowski
February 23, 2009
Rhoda,
My deepest condolences to you and your family. Derek was a fine man, and modest too. I had the highest respect for him.
Tom Marano
February 23, 2009
Nice honest guy.
Lisa Sedlak
February 23, 2009
Derek was a very nice man and my prayers are with his family.
Deb Williams
February 23, 2009
Rhoda,
Derek was such a wonderful person to know and associate with. I know he was not just a husband to you and father to your children, but a great friend to you as well. He will be sorely missed by all who shared in his generosity and consideration of others. We will all miss his gentle voice and wonderful smile. You and yours are in our prayers as you pass though this time of sorrow.
Alan Raflo
February 23, 2009
I offer my deepest sympathy to the Myers family and my thanks for Derek's many gifts of service to our community.
Carol Guest
February 23, 2009
I am so very sorry. Derek was a man of integrity who showed such compassion for those in need.
I will miss him.
Jonathan McGlumphy
February 23, 2009
Derek was a valuable member of Town Council. He was extremely helpful to me and others in promoting a bicycle-friendly downtown. He and his efforts will be sorely missed.
Vera Good
February 23, 2009
My favorite Tech professor. A wonderful man.
Margaret Breslau
February 23, 2009
Derek, I will always appreciate your compassion, optimism, and energy especially as shown on our recent trip together to Nicaragua. The trip gave me the opportunity to get to know you better and, for that, I am so grateful.
Lorraine Plemmons
February 23, 2009
My deepest sympathy for you and your family Rhoda. My thoughts are with you all.
Nancy Gruber
February 23, 2009
Dear Rhoda and family,
I'm so very sorry to hear about your loss. Derek was always such a joy to be around and easy to talk with. He will be greatly missed by VT and the Blacksburg community. Always cherish your memories and move forward in his honor. You know that he would want it that way. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Dorothy Carter
February 23, 2009
My deepest sympathy & condolences during this time of sorrow.
Former co-worker with Rhoda Myers.
Shelby Garrett
February 23, 2009
Rhoda,
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your husband. My Thoughts and Prayers go out to you and your Family at this sad time.
Norma Burke
February 23, 2009
Rhoda, I am so sorry to hear this. I know that your heart is broken. May God give you peace at this sad time.
Vickie Akers
February 23, 2009
My thoughts are with you.
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