Langdon Dewayne Jarvis 1942-2010

You may remember him as Lanny Jarvis, the musician, bass player, or Langdon Jarvis, the artist, chair-maker, worker of rhododendron. I, my sister, as well as many of my school friends, remember him as Papa. He passed away, this month, a year ago.

Loved and hated no one could deny that Lanny Jarvis knew how to bring rhododendron out from the Woods. He had a special way of appreciating nature, and was inspired to work with the wood, never against it. His personality was difficult to understand and accept by some because of this intuition. An artificial spirit could never get by him without some critisism. But that is what made him an artist and gave him that love for perfection. Langdon was one of the many talented twig meisters of West Virginia. His work can be seen as part of the Cultural Center in Charleston where he takes his place beside his fellow artists, each one unique, demonstrating their love for the beauty of this state.

While woodworking was mainly done alone with his family, his music was something he shared with his friends. Lanny admired a good musician and was admired by many, as well, because of his talents. He had very close friends through his music and I know that he is missed by them. Music was the last part of his life, and before he died at least he could still pick up his guitar. In the quiet of the morning before the sun came up, I can still hear him singing, “Now, is the needed time”.

In his memory, I just wanted to take a moment to reflect in appreciation upon a few of my father's accomplishments and passions as a wood worker and musician, and, that he did contibute to some of what makes West Virginia almost Heaven.