A memorial service was held on Thursday, April 7, 2011 to remember RMC alumna Taylor Anderson ’08, who died as a result of the recent tsunami in Japan. Nearly 100 people, including Anderson’s family, attended the service, which was held at Duncan Memorial United Methodist Church on the campus of Randolph-Macon College.

RMC Chaplain Darrell Headrick led the service, which included a memorial ritual by Anderson’s sorority sisters, Alpha Gamma Delta; tributes from family and friends; singing by the RMC Chamber Singers; and organ music played by RMC music professor James Doering. Anderson’s father, Andy, thanked everyone for their thoughts and prayers. He said his daughter “went to Japan and pursued her dreams.” He urged students to “embrace life and don’t worry where it takes you.”

Anderson’s sorority sister, Maryanne DallaValle ’08, said Anderson “lived out the purpose of Alpha Gamma Delta better than anyone.” She described her friend as “caring, fun, hilarious, smart, beautiful and a role model for all.” Those sentiments were shared by RMC Professor Todd Munson who said Anderson “ranks among the very best students I have had in my eight years at the college; she was a model of enthusiasm and diligence and good humor.” Munson, who is an associate professor of Asian Studies, served as Anderson’s academic advisor, Schapiro Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) advisor, and was her instructor for a 2006 January Term trip to Japan. Munson added that Anderson enrolled in every class he offered on campus.

RMC President Robert R. Lindgren expressed the college community’s deepest sympathy and told the family that they continue to be in our thoughts and prayers. Lindgren said, “Taylor’s life was a classic example of a life remarkably well-lived. She reached beyond herself, inspiring others in the process, and became a role model for those who knew her.” He added, “I think of all of those children in Japan who benefited from her caring and gifted teaching. And I most of all reflect upon her final, splendid, utterly gracious act of ensuring that each and every one of her students was safely in the custody of their parents, before climbing onto her bicycle for that last fateful journey. “ Click on remarks to read Lindgren’s comments.

To make a gift in Taylor Anderson’s memory, please contact Ellen Stack, director of advancement services, at 804.752.3238 or eleanorstack@rmc.edu.

Click on Candlelight Vigil to view photos of a prayer vigil held on March 16, 2011 for Taylor Anderson.