Blane K. Dessy | 1951-2026
BLA Board Members Blane K. Dessy, Cheryl Rush Dix, and Sarah Thompson (mirror)
It is with great sadness that we share the passing of long-time Board member and Secretary of the Board, Blane K. Dessy. He had an historic career in library services. With the Burleigh Legacy Alliance, he brought all of this expertise to our long-running Lawrence-Johnson Archival Preservation project. His insights and perseverance were instrumental in creating this collection of historic materials devoted to the African American communities who have lived in Erie, PA.
Moreover, we greatly miss his good nature - his bonhomie, his kindness, and his leadership as we developed new projects and initiatives. It was always a professional development moment to watch him interact with the many stakeholders in and outside our organization.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to his husband, Randal Eric Shannon, his daughter, Adrienne, and his brothers Tom and Kevin.
Blane, we hope you are reading a good book on a comfy sofa.