I was shocked and deeply saddened to return from vacation and receive Dan
H's message about David Loftin's death.  David was immediate past President
of the Southern Academy, and a more vibrant, unconventional and dynamic
character I have never met.  David took pride in his work and his French
heritage.  When he was elected President of the Southern Academy he set an
ambitious agenda for improving and expanding our activities.  During his
outgoing speech, he commented on the accomplishments during his term but he
also pointed out areas where his goals had not been met, and he promised to
continue to work with the Academy to achieve those goals.  At the last
Southern Academy meeting I sat next to David during dinner one evening and
he spoke of his new wife and their plans to travel in France during the
summer.  I had never seen him happier.  If anyone has an address where
sympathy cards may be sent to his widow and family, I would appreciate that
information.  Needless to say, the Southern Academy has suffered a terrible
loss.  We will miss David.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Lizbeth G. Ellis
Assistant Professor
New Mexico State University
P.O. Box 300001, Dept. 3FIN
Las Cruces, NM  88003-8001
(505) 646-5066