Monday, September 20, 2021
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I met J.P. while I was doing graduate research in the Ramsey lab from 2016-2020. At first, I had a hard time understanding anything he said, mostly because I was new to the South and because he would speak "en sotto voce", in a rambling sort of way. After some time working together, I grew to understand how he expressed himself and his quick sense of humor.
I slowly realized he was always trying to provide support in any way he could and if he spoke, it was with purpose and a reserved kindness. Many times his way of helping was by providing insight and a clever joke. When approached for advice, he would listen thoughtfully, with a concerned expression; if he didn't have any to give at the time, it was clear that the issue would weigh on his mind, and he'd soon return with some suggestion or at least a follow up question to better understand the scenario.
J.P. clearly cared about the people he worked with. He was always helpful and kind to me, which I won't forget. I felt he was always rooting for me in his own way. Upon taking a leave of absence from grad school during the COVID pandemic, J.P. was the first to reach out to my personal email and check in with me to see how things were going. It was a small, but meaningful gesture.
Although J.P. was quiet and primarily seemed to thrive behind the scenes, he was also always ready for a group lunch or beer to chat with his buddies. He didn't share much personal information, however, I remember the time he took a vacation out West to receive rally car driving lessons. When he returned he animatedly told us all about it and answered our many questions with enthusiasm. He was partial to attending the Indy 500 and had a soft spot for talking about cars.
The Ramsey lab won't be the same without him. I suspect that those who are still attending lab group meetings will miss hearing his weekly recap and reminders, followed by watching him slowly doze off at the head of the conference room table in the afternoon sun.
Rest in peace.
