We recently lost an inspiring, tireless and fearless advocate for humanity and our Earth. Larry Gibson traveled across the USA for years, speaking out against the devastatingly destructive practices of mountain-top removal mining in West Virgina. Though he fought an uphill battle (often with facing threats to his personal safety) against deep-pocketed mining companies in the name of saving the ancient mountains of his homeland and standing up for his neighbors, he kept a spirited outlook that was infectious.

Last year I had the honor and privilege to sit down with for a conversation with Larry while he was on a speaking tour in San Francisco. Being a native West Virginian, I wouldn’t miss the opportunity. Wearing his trademark neon yellow shirt and cap, he lit up the room with his sober determination paired with his joyful passion for doing what he knew was right. He is a shinning example of a patriot, a mountaineer, a freedom fighter and a lover of life. He will be dearly missed.