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In Memoriam

In Memoriam

Posted by MaryK | January 28, 2011 | Comments (4)

For those who do not know, copy chiefs are freelancers who continually evaluate our team of copy editors.  This group of professionals works closely with Eve Lederman and Richard Lally, our content curators.  

It is with a very heavy heart that we announce the recent loss of one of those chiefs, Jessica Thompson. Jessica provided her services to Demand Media Studios while simultaneously working with a charitable organization in Cambodia. That work underscored the selflessness that impressed so many of Jessica’s colleagues. 

Upon hearing the news, Richard Lally sent the following note to the chiefs. We think it properly reflects the sentiments of everyone in the company:

"Over the weekend, Sherry informed us of the tragic--there is no other word for this--death of Jessica Thompson. I didn't know Jessica well; she worked on Eve's team, and we corresponded perhaps two or three times, but those few exchanges demonstrated a warm and generous spirit, and she clearly devoted herself to her work and the pursuit of excellence. 

We work together in isolation, and we rarely interact beyond these atonal communications. But with this terrible loss, the barriers of distance and geography vanish. Within our hearts, we hold hands together and join Jessica's relatives and loved ones to mourn as a family."

We also want to acknowledge the loss of two other community members. Regina Sass, a longtime Demand writer and frequent forum contributor, interacted with the community on a regular basis and her presence will be missed.  Though he did not post as frequently, we will mourn the loss of David Somerset, a writer who has been contributing articles to Demand since January 2010.  We send our heartfelt condolences to their families and loved ones. 

4 Comments

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Suzie Faloon
Feb 3, 1:23 AM

My deepest condolences to the families and friends of these three people. Editing team, I am so sorry for your loss of Jessica.
Many of us miss Regina on the forum. I don't remember David and I'm sorry to hear about him too. Each of these lives were precious.

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DaleS
Feb 3, 5:09 PM

I don't know what to say...I've been a CE for a few months and Jessica has been my inspiration as my reviewer. I am simply at a loss for words. She will be missed by her team and Demand in general....please pass on my condolences to her family.

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Alvaro Roque
Feb 8, 4:16 PM

As a writer, I recognize the dedication that CEs play in the writing process. I am sorry that they have passed, and know they are in a better place. My prayers are with the families and loved ones.

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FrankD3
Oct 11, 1:59 PM

Deeply sorry! and wish the bereaved families comfort. I am demand studios contributor/writer from kenya. I do admire how copy editors do their work. We all will miss these departed souls.
Thanks.
John
jmoluoch@yahoo.com

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