Phoenix Psaltery, Beloved Longtime SL Community Member, Dies IRL

I'm sad to report that Phoenix Psaltery (Alan Seeger IRL), a central figure in the Second Life user community for many years, passed away recently, at the far too early age of 58. Exact circumstances of his death aren't known at press time, but last weekend, his real life daughter reported on Facebook that he had been taken into the ICU due to high blood pressure and an infection. (Back in 2008, the community held a benefit auction to help him cover costs of a renal failure.) A musician and writer in SL and RL, he was the co-founder (in 2005) of The Metaverse Messenger, one of Second Life first news periodicals.

CaSimone Acquitaine, who helped co-moderate a Facebook group for SLers with him, passed along this tribute:

"He was smart, funny, patient, kind but also tough if need be. Like many social media admins, he labored under the radar, spreading positive influence, mentoring, guiding and if need be correcting. Also, I should not leave out the hours of Think Tanking, all his contributions on how to deal with the merge of thousands upon thousands of people. A task that was not as easy as it might appear on the surface. I think a little glimpse of his impact can be observed by the fact that at this point, less than 6 hours ago from me announcing his passing, hundreds upon hundreds of people have responded to this loss. There are so many condolences, I can barely read through them all. The loss of Alan is going to be a massive adjustment for me personally. He was a very intricate part of my life. We had so many other plans, and I am so very hurt by his passing."

If anyone knows of memorials to be held for him, both in real and Second Life, please post details in Comments. And if you are connected to his family members on social media (I'm not), please pass along this link and my condolences.

Much thanks to Tenshi Vielle for passing along this news

Comments

[YsabelleStewart]

A tragic loss, and far too young. Condolences to his friends and family.

[Economicmip]

Rest in Peace old friend