BOA mourns the passing of former board member and longtime arts advocate Jack Garner.

For those in our hometown of Rochester, NY, Jack was an iconic figure whose movie reviews and arts coverage in the Democrat and Chronicle were a lively mix of information, history, and great writing. Jack was also a visible figure around town, appearing regularly at concerts, galleries, readings, talks, and various celebrations of the arts.

With his booming voice and stately (6’9”) presence, Jack was the perfect emcee for introducing poets at BOA’s annual Dine & Rhyme fundraiser, musical acts at the Rochester International Jazz Festival, or conducting on-stage interviews with movie stars at the Eastman Museum, where he was recipient of the prestigious George Eastman Medal of Honor.

BOA Publisher Peter Conners says, “To say that Jack Garner will be missed in the Rochester community is an understatement. He was a local icon, true friend of the arts, and an all-around great guy. I looked forward to every single interaction I had with Jack and always walked away with something new to think about, listen to, read, or watch. Jack was not only a great supporter of BOA – always willing to help out however he could – but I was proud to consider him a friend.”

Our heartfelt sympathies go out to Jack’s wife Bonnie Garner, who currently serves as a BOA board member, and to his entire family.

Jack Garner, Photo by Carlos Oritz, Democrat & Chronicle Staff

Jack's obituary is in the Democrat and Chronicle.