The following is a statement from newspaperman Michael Lacey on the recent death of his colleague and business partner James "Jim" Larkin. Larkin died on Monday, July 31. He was 74.
FROM MICHAEL LACEY
Jim Larkin’s passing has torn at my heart.
I knew him for over 40 years as we pursued stories across America, literally from sea to shining sea.
He began a newspaper in high school; journalism was quite literally in his blood.
He embraced the idea of full-time staff writers at Village Voice Media despite the expense. And those journalists went on to win over 3,800 writing awards including recognition in the Pulitzer competition.
Jim was a businessman, and he recognized and created a market for alternative newsweeklies. He cut trail where most perceived only risk.
Above all of his works, however, he was a family man. A loyal husband, he reveled in his six children.
I never saw my friend do a dishonest or dishonorable thing in his entire life.
I had a four-decade friendship with a wonderful man.
Now I have only his memory.
Jim will always remain in my heart and in my prayers.
The last few years he faced injustices for the good work he tried to do.
With heartfelt sympathy for Jim and his family.
My first job when I landed in Arizona was at “New Times” in 1987 as an advertising sales executive. Quite honestly, the Editorial department was much more interesting than the sales department, so I spent my spare time on the editorial side of the building. I always remember Jim in his office. He had a contagious smile and was always friendly and accessible. I was very saddened to read that he had taken his life. My deepest condolences to all who knew him. It’s a very sad loss.
Heartfelt condolences to Jim Larkin’s family and to his daring news gathering friends. I only met him briefly but value his lasting legacy of telling the stories of the most vulnerable among us. May he Rest in Peace.