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Volume 41, Issue 11
March 9, 2004
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March
9,
2004
Donovan Lamar dies: remembered
as ‘spiritually centered powerhouse’
called a ‘spirtually centered powerhouse’ Corey Hunt
Mesa Legend
MCC teacher Donovan Lamar died Feb. 13 at 48 years old. Lamar left behind
a wife and five children. He worked as a counselor and mentor for Maricopa
Community Colleges.
“ My husband lived each day with compassion, conviction, never compromising
and always reaching out to those who had, and especially to those who
did not have. He loved helping everyone and he gave from the heart, to
all,” said wife Letitia LaMar.
Many students will remember their teacher as giving more than needed in
every situation. Lamar started his career over 19 years ago as a janitor
at Glendale Community College. His drive and leadership continued as he
advanced to program adviser. From there he moved to advise at South Mountain
Community College. For the last five years he has been inspiring students
at MCC. He recently completed his second master’s degree and had
begun teaching Tai Chi. Colleagues revered Lamar as a character of great
stature. Even those who failed to meet Lamar on a more personal level
felt his impact.
“ I never had the opportunity to meet Donovan. I knew of him very
well. I got to know him through the eyes, hearts and minds of his friends,
colleagues and students. His contribution to all of us will not be forgotten,”
said Ken Clark, Paradise Valley Community College faculty.
Lamar’s sensitive touch and caring outlook left past students with
more than a grade. His students were taught valuable lessons. He liked
to tell his students one can test the strength of a tea bag by placing
it in hot water. He would also use his faith as a strong tool in lessons,
such as using the illustration that some of us are “water,”
and some of us are “plants,” but only God gives the increase.
Brian Johnson, dean of students, called Lamar a “spiritually centered
powerhouse.” Johnson said he feels Lamar’s philosophies were
so ethereal and universal that anyone who came in contact with him will
reflect the person he was. To embody his essence is the greatest gift
of all, Johnson said.
“ Donovan will be missed by all of those whose lives he touched.
He was a giant among men,” said Pearl Boothe Williams, Estrella
Community College faculty.
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