John Richard "Jack" Pavia Jr.

When I attended Ithaca I had the good fortune to experience Professor Pavia's scholarship. I took one class and was hooked. I took every class he offered during my four years there. He was an amazing teacher and an equally amazing man. I think we formed a friendship in those four years that continues to resonate with me even now. I am sad to hear about his passing as I fell out of contact in recent years. But I love that I can memorialize him on this page.

In the fall of 1969, my freshman year, I was in one of Jack's Western Civilization classes at I.C. He was such an energetic, lively, fun professor. After I switched my major to history in 1971, he helped me
apply for an independent summer study course. He very much encouraged me as I transitioned to majoring in history. In the spring of my senior year, I was in one of his east Asian history courses. I am saddened by his passing. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and...

I honor the memory of one of the finest teachers I ever had. John R. Pavia taught me to love learning again, put his faith in me as a T.A. while I studied at Ithaca College, and he changed my life. He helped me believe in myself. I'll never forget him. Teachers, no matter how old you are, help shape your passion and inclinations. Forever grateful. Blessings.

Dear Ann and John,
I met Jack in 1973-- he saw that I had a passion for history and the stories of our past and encouraged that flame. In all my years of higher learning (I collected 2 bachelors, a masters, and was working on a Phd for a while) he was always, for me, the epitome of what a professor should be, and never lost the throne. It was a great joy that our friendship continued all these years-- via correspondence, and it is a regret of mine that I was never able to get back to the...

I knew Jack from working at Ithaca College - he always had great stories to tell and even gave me a couple of his cameras - which I cherish!

Dear Lisa and William

I did not know Jack. I read his obituary because he looked like my uncle when he was in uniform.
I am so sorry for your loss. He must have been a wonderful husband and father.

God bless you.

My favorite professor and a good friend for 30 years. One of the greatest influences on my life. I will miss you, friend.

Ann, I am so very sorry to hear this. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Jack was my favorite Prof thirty years ago and we kept up a correspondence for years. I learned more about life from him as well as history. He will be truly missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family.