Haines People for Peace is greatly saddened by the news of Art Jess’ death on Saturday, March 22. Art was a pillar in the community in so many ways, and one of those ways was his endless support for, and devotion to, local peace work. Art embodied peace and his soft-spoken wisdom truly echoed those simple words spoken by Gandhi years ago: “My life is my message.”
Haines People for Peace was so often guided by and inspired by Art’s few, well-chosen words. He always showed up with Leanne to help us plan our events and make decisions. He listened, he nodded his head, and he offered his thoughts with modest conviction. We all knew that if Art liked the idea, we were on the right track.
We will miss having Art in the meeting room and at our events, but Art’s life and his passion for peacemaking will continue to inspire us to do good work. Haines People for Peace is grateful to have had Art’s caring energy and presence as an integral part of our group for so many years. We’ll all surely miss him. Let us now surround Leanne Converse with love and support through this difficult time.
George Figdor