Farewell, Khephra.

[Skinner]

It is difficult to put into words the enormity of our loss.

In a huge community like this one, with thousands upon thousands of people, it is extremely uncommon for any single soul to stand out from the crowd. Khephra was a rare DUer, a pillar of our community, an institution. He was kind, gentle, thoughtful, and decent. A true patriot who loved his country, and fought for what he believed in.

I know it is considered bad form for an admin to admit that some members are better, nicer, or more vital to the community than others here. But in this case, it is so obviously true that I can't possibly not say it. We've had over 60,000 people register for this website, but I can think of maybe two other people who have given as much to this community as Khephra has. Even that is a stretch. The real number may be zero. Khephra was in a class by himself. I cannot believe that he is no longer with us. It's like we have lost a limb. Or a piece of our heart.

Khephra joined DU way back in 2001. There was a time when he was the Latest Breaking News forum. Nobody posted more stories. He would scour the news sites and bring the world to us. It is not an understatement to say that Khephra made the Latest Breaking News forum what it is today.

Of course, he didn't just stay in the LBN forum. You could find him in the Lounge, in the General Discussion forums, and everywhere else. He served many terms as a DU moderator. He was an early supporter of Howard Dean, and was tremendous advocate for his campaign here on DU. Many of you also know him for the work he did for Truthout.

As an admin I don't have the opportunity to get to know many DU members. Khephra was one of the few exceptions. I met him in person at the Philly gathering, and talked to him for a long time. Since then we have had occasional telephone conversations. We talked a lot during the primaries, which were an extremely difficult time for all of us. Like all of us, he was frustrated about the infighting. We discussed possible approaches and solutions, and issues that needed to be dealt with. He cared about this community at least as much as I do. Probably much more, in fact. He often told me that as long as there was a Democratic Underground, he would be here.

And it's true, even now. As long as we're here, so is he.

I miss you already, my friend.

:cry:

Democratic Underground is going to send some flowers to Mama Kheph. If anyone would like to make a modest contribution to help out, just click here to go to our donate page. In the space where it says "Forum Username," type "Khephra" so we know the donation is for him. After we purchase the flowers, any additional funds will be donated in Kef's name to an appropriate charity. I would appreciate it if some of his close friends would give me suggestions of any causes or charities that Kef supported.

[Misunderestimator]

1. Rest in peace gentle Khephra

I did not know you personally, but felt I knew you from your posts, your intellect, your passion and compassion, and I am touched by the numbers of people here who loved you. You will be missed.

[ignatius 2]

139. Thank you for deleting that maniac. My head is still spinning to

know that some people are so cruel and disgusting.

[Cooley Hurd]

2. I'll donate immediately. You're so right about Kef & LBN...

Thanks, David, for a fitting tribute and putting Khephra's value on DU into a proper perspective.:cry:

[Robb]

3. We are better for having known him

I miss him terribly. God bless, godspeed.

Khephra knew where his towel was. :cry:

[Thtwudbeme]

4. He will be sorely missed

Stephanie

[chiburb]

5. Thank you, Skinner...

I knew him from LBN before I quit lurking, and it was his posts that inspired me to finally join. His commitment to keeping the world informed of the increasing outrages taking place convinced me that THIS was a community I wanted to be a part of. So, for this "one", you are right: Khephra was the single most important DUer ever.

He isn't "gone" as long as we're still here.

[newsguyatl]

6. just donated,

thank you for this opportunity -- and thank you for the touching tribute.

[Zomby Woof]

An eloquent and heartfelt tribute

It's a loss I still cannot wrap words around so easily. But there is nothing you said I would not hesitate to claim as my own thoughts and feelings. :cry:

In a similar vein, I started this thread last night:

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=104x2925418

[kedrys]

7. Rest in peace Khephra

I didn't know you well and wish I had known you better. Thanks for everything. Condolences to your family.

:cry:

[LosinIt]

8. The value of his contribution to LBN cannot be overstated

Without the exposure Kheph gave us to international news sources, we would not have half of the information that we have today.

I am deeply saddened, eyes rimmed with tears since I found out last night. My family thinks I am nuts.

[Thor_MN]

18. You are perfectly sane, or I am also nuts.

I just found out by virtue of ALL the latest LBN being Kephra's posts.

[ps1074]

9. Rest In Peace, Khephra

Thanks KG for sending me the blue eye pic.

[KoKo]

10. Thank you Skinner for those beautiful words. He meant the same to me

and many others. He got us through some bad times here with his moderation and balance. Those of us who posted with him on the "running threads" remember those days when DU was small and we had such a closeness of spirit. Keph got me through some bad times during the primaries with his optimism.

I feel as though I've lost a family member, and I've never met him personally or talked with him except through PM's on DU. Crying my eyes out...just like you and the other DU'ers who knew what he meant to Democratic Underground. The loss is just so huge.

[T Town Jake]

11. "Khephra," you'll be sorely missed. Rest In Peace. eom.

(n/t)

[tjdee]

12. Finnfan had the idea of donating to Democracy for America in Kheph's name.

I did last night as well.

So there's an idea for a charity....

:(

[DancingBear]

26. I, too, had the same idea

I ran it by someone close to Kheph this a.m. - awaiting a reply.

[rbnyc]

159. That's what Lynnesin & I were thinking. (nt)

[wellstone dem]

13. Thank you for an appropriate tribute

Don't hold back for fear of giving him too much credit for his contribution to DU. You are right, he has made a UNIQUE impact on DU. I am wondering if there would be some way to rename the LBN forum in his name, without making it difficult for new people to know it is LBN.

[buddhamama]

14. Fare Thee Well, Khephra

I am stunned and, can't find the words. Thank You Skinner; you have expressed beautifully what so many of us are feeling at this time. And how we feel about Kef.

[Mikimouse]

15. Skinner, thanks for the opportunity to do this...

I lurked the board for a long time, mostly reading Kheph's morning news posts, and regarded DU as my place to get the real scoop on things. I joined later (sometime in 2002), largely because of the discussions that took place in LBN. I cannot express my sadness in hearing the news yesterday about Khephra, as I always considered it paramount to read his posts. He was a cornerstone of DU and I will miss him. Nick

[short bus president]

16. Thank you, Skinner. Very well spoken.

Kef was the person who drew me out of lurking here, over 3 years ago. And yeah - even if that first DU discussion for me was only about a TV show we both enjoyed instead of something of monumental political import - that discussion with Kef was what made DU feel instantly like home. I'm gonna miss that dude. Lots.

[bigwillq]

17. May a great man rest in peace

Farwell, Khephra.


Skinner, thank you for a wonderful post.
We all will continue to fight the fight in Scott's honor.

[rasputin1952]

19. Rest in Peace Keph...

If I could touch just one person as positively as he has touched so many, I will have lived a good life.

One of the most generous, compassionate and decent humans that has walked these halls of life. He will be sorely missed, and I am proud, and honored, to have been a very small part of his life.

He will indeed live on here at DU. We have been exceptionally fortunate as to have gained his wisdom over the years.

My eyes will dry...but my soul will always weep over this loss...:cry:

O8)

[The Traveler]

20. I didn't know Khephra that well

Or maybe it would be more accurate to say, he didn't know me that well. I've let my brain chew on many, many of his posts and his references have lead me down many informative paths. I knew where he stood and admired his clarity and commitment. He kept his head during the primaries when so many of us became overwhelmed by the passion of our own commitment. He was a good man, strong of mind and heart.

And I know that those close to him are really hurting right now, and all of us are shocked. We're gonna miss him mightily.

[cmf]

21. I am so sorry to hear this

Rest in peace, Khephra.

[DoveTurnedHawk]

22. Thank You, David

Very well said, as usual. It is only fitting that he be recognized this way, for all of the reasons you indicated.

You're the man, Scott. You're the man. Thanks for all you did.

DTH

[AmerDem]

23. May God Bless him

and all who knew and loved him. Prayers are being sent.

[matcom]

24. Perfect

R.I.P. Khephra

:cry:

[Nikepallas]

25. I did not know Khephra but from what I have been reading I get the

impression he would have been one of the best to know. My heart and comfort goes out to all in DU who knew him as well as his family and will feel the emptiness of his absence.

May the memories of him bring you comfort and perhaps a laugh for I have heard it said The strongest way to honor those who have past is to remember the Good/fun times and smile in their honor.

[hippiechick]

27. I talked w/ Scott's mom a few minutes ago

She is understandably upset, and thankfully she is not going through this alone.

She is working with the Masons in Indy for a memorial service later this week. Autopsy will be done tomorrow.

She said to please donate to ANY democratic cause; knowing Kef the way I did, I'd lean toward local grassroots groups. He loved the underdog.

Will update as I hear more.



:hippie:

[Susang]

59. Thanks hippiechick

The Masonic memorial service is perfect, he loved being a Mason so much. Please tell Kheph's mom that we're all thinking about her and Scott.

[spotbird]

116. Would his county party use the money wisely?

Not everything local is worthy, but a substantial total donation to a local party organization could cause genuine change.

Just a thought. I feel really bad about this.

[maddezmom]

28. RIP Khephra

and thanks for the post Skinner, he was important to those who didn't even know him but for his posts. :(

[curse10]

29. I'm still crying this morning

It's hard to believe that we can grow so attached to someone whom we never met in person. But DU is so special for so many of us. I remember when we didn't have 5 digit member numbers and it was easier to sort through the mess and make friends here. I've met wonderful people here at DU and am proud to call them my friends. Although I never had the opportunity to meet Kef in person, I considered him a friend-- as I would a lot of DUers I've yet to meet face to face.

Kef was a special person. And one of the kindest people I've ever come across, here or in my life outside of DU. I still can't believe he's gone. At least we can be comforted by the fact that he was well loved. He had a huge family here at DU and we are all obviously devasted.

I wish I could say more about this wonderful man, bu I can't stop crying. It really hurts.

[VolcanoJen]

104. Oh, Kirsten. I know!

:grouphug: :grouphug: :grouphug:

RIP, our beloved Kef. :-(

[GOPFighter]

30. Oh man....

...if Khepfra could only know the extent of his influence. Why do we reserve our love and affection for after they are gone? What a wonderful world it would be if we could share our love and respect for each other on a daily basis? Wouldn't it have been nice to have a Khephra Appreciation Day, or Skinner Appreciation Day or a special day for all the other regulars who have made this forum my best friend?

Khep, you are one of those rare individuals who had a positive impact on so many of our lives. Most of us are census numbers, no more. You rocked man. R.I.P! :pals:

[goodbody]

31. For Mama Kheph:

For longer than I can remember, I checked this forum usually in the early morning and found "Khephra" posting the LBN articles that I would peruse to check the latest news cycles. I came to look for Khephra's posts those early mornings and sleepless nights and often wondered who he/she was. It is under the saddest of circumstances that I have learned Khephra is your beloved son, Scott Lowery.

I am so sorry for your loss, Mama Kheph. I never knew Khephra or corresponded with him, but I can say that he has made an impact on so many people through this forum. I will miss his presence here and will miss seeing his name and appreciating his valuable contributions.

But you will miss him for so much more. We knew him as the kind soul that you raised, but for you, he is your precious baby and always will be. A mother's love is like no other, and from some early posts I saw from Khephra, he loved you very much too. I lost a loved one under similar circumstances a few short months ago -- there is no greater pain in life. Yet I have to say that I still go back and read the loving and caring things people wrote that memorialized our relationship; they still give me comfort and I am grateful for that. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this difficult time.

[KittyWampus]

32. You Know, There's A New Post In LBN That Has Kephra Written All Over It

someone just posted it...

"Vatican offers course in Satanism and exorcism".

It's a testiment to the greatness of his soul that he left behind to many people who mourn his loss, that he left while doing what he loved.

Thanks Scott, the Eye of Horus watches over you on your Journey.

[Beetwasher]

35. There Were Always Posts Or Stories That I Would See and I Would Say "Keph

would love this!" or "I wonder what Keph would think about this!". Sad, tragic day...

[UrbScotty]

33. I'm in a state of absolute shock.

I'm sure many others are, too.

Thank you for all that you did for us, Kef.

O8)

[greendog]

34. Rest in Peace, Kef...

...Yours were the first posts I read when I stumbled upon DU on 9/11/01.

In those early days it was obvious that you were the glue that held this place together.

Thanks.

[bobthedrummer]

36. You will be missed and remembered, rest in peace.

Bob

[Coventina]

37. I can't believe it, I just can't...dear sweet kef...oh God!

He was my first friend here on DU.

I have all the PMs he ever sent me. He was so sweet.
I just can't believe it.
Dear God this can't be happening.

[AmandaRuth]

38. what a sad day, it is hard to believe

i also did not know Kheph well, but appreciated his posts enormously, He will be missed. You raised a fine son Momma Kheph. :cry: :cry: :cry:

[ulysses]

39. thank you, David.

:cry:

[underpants]

40. Yep Khephra was LBN when I first came to DU

I met him at the DC march in October 2002. A really nice guy. He will be missed. Thoughts and prayers to his family and for him.

[ZombieNixon]

41. Requiesat in pace, Khephra.

I cannot even begin to imagine what your family must be feeling right now. Godspeed, and I know you'll come to a better place.

[blondeatlast]

42. Who says DU ers can't unite? There isn't a one of us dedicated

to the boards that isn't feeling an enormous loss.

God bless you, Steve.

I hope you can take a peek now and then to see how we're doing. I think you'll be very pleased.

Oh, damn, this is so hard.

[last1standing]

43. Khephra's posts were instrumental in making me only a semi-lurker.

Versus a complete one. It's so sad when someone you've come to admire is lost to you, and it seems I'm not alone in that view of him. We have all lost something with his departure.

Having read so many of his posts, I've come to understand what grassroots and honest democratic principles meant to Khephra. That being said, I'd suggest donating to Democracy for America. While it is not a charity in the traditional sense, I think he would feel that it would help more people there than anywhere else.

[Kellanved]

44. Thank You

I've used PayPal, I hope that doesn't cause you any problems.

[Pert_UK]

45. From now on, there will always be something missing from DU....

:hug:

Can't believe it....totally stunned and am so sorry to hear this terrible news. My thoughts are with his family and friends.

P.

[salin]

46. Keph, mama Keph, and all Duers who have been touched

by Keph - we came together out of mutual love for our country, concern for the direction our country would choose to take and a deep desire to gain a better understanding of what was really unfolding around us - something that following a single news source could no longer adequately do. Keph you helped shape the LBN forum - as a place that brought together news from many sources - so that the stories could be seared together in our collective minds eyes - giving us all a greater insight into what is really happening in our country and in our world. When I had the time I followed you lead and tried to scour news sources to bring information together in that forum. Over the years others, too, have followed your lead. It will never be the same place without you - but you have left an indelible stamp on it - and made it one of the best places on the net to get quick news from broad sources - and a place where it is safe to discuss news as it unfolds.

I grieve the loss of your corporal/cyber presence. However I celebrate the spirit, passion, kindness and broad wisdom that you shared with us - your commitment to us collectively, and to "us" more broadly defined (beyond DU). May you be at peace, Scott. Thank you.

[CornField]

47. Rest in peace, Scott

And thank you, Skinner. I was hoping to see something like this when I checked in this morning.

[WilliamPitt]

48. Thank you, Skinner

[Cheney Killed Bambi]

129. Thank you

That was a really beautifully written tribute

[Bake]

140. Thank you so much, Will.

That's one of the most beautiful elegies I have ever read. A fine, fine tribute to a fine person and friend.

Bake

[Hans Delbrook]

49. I can only add this

My favorite lines from RFK's eulogy:

"This is the way he lived. My brother need not be idealized, or enlarged in death beyond what he was in life, to be remembered simply as a good and decent man, who saw wrong and tried to right it, saw suffering and tried to heal it, saw war and tried to stop it."

[Lorien]

50. A beautiful tribute, Skinner

maybe Democracy for america or the Progressive Democrats would be good causes to contribute to?

I thought about Kef and Momma Khephra all night, and still have a lump in my throat this morning. Such a terrible loss. :cry:

[darkstar]

51. Peace to the hearts ot all that were close to him

He helped welcome me here too, both in the way his presence made it feel like I'd found a home and with words when I finally signed up.

What a beautiful soul.

[Gothic Sponge]

52. RIP, Khephra

:cry:

[GOPisEvil]

53. If there is a DUer you really want to meet, do it. Find a way.

Khephra has been on my short list of DUers to meet for a long time. I remember when he regained his driving priveleges. He talked about taking a road trip across the country. I offered a spot in my home as I would for any long term friend.

I only got a chance to speak to Scott by phone on a couple of occasions. I wish I'd gotten the chance to meet him.

RIP Scott. You'll be missed.

[Acryliccalico]

54. Thank you Skinner

Khephra had a unique way of inviting everyone into a conversation. He made every one feel that their input was important and worth posting. All views were important to hear and mull over. This is truly a great loss for DU and all of us who feel like this is our home and all here are family.

[Plaid Adder]

55. I am so sorry to hear this. I will miss khephra too.

In terms of DU history, I am a relative newcomer (I didn't really start posting on the forums until 2002 or 2003). But everyone knew khephra. His heart, his commitment, his kindness, and his sense of humor projected through the screen, even in very brief little responses. I am grateful to have the chance to get to know him that way, but I regret that I will never get to meet him in person.

A few days ago an NPR story about "Kerry die-hards" sent me into a long, long rant about people who make fun of the rest of us for giving a shit. Khephra was always a testament to the power of commitment. I hope he will continue to inspire all of us.

My thoughts go out to everyone here who was close to him, and to his family.

The Plaid Adder

[Amaya]

56. A very deep loss

Skinner, thank you for the lovely words.

Rest in peace, Kef

[djeseru]

57. Deep in thoughts & prayers for Khephra...

...he will be terribly missed, most certainly by me. Although I'm not much of a poster here, my year here definitely had it's Kheph-highlights - the only DU'er that ever PM'ed me, we shared many common interests and that was good enough for me to remain a lurker knowing he would put voice to what I couldn't.

I'll miss him. :cry:

[greatauntoftriplets]

58. "Khephra was in a class by himself." How true.

Thanks, Skinner. This is a sad weekend for the DU community.

[Jade Fox]

60. I am stunned. What a loss, both to this forum and all who knew him.

Thank you, Skinner, for this tribute.

And thank you, Khephra. Go to the light. :cry:

[henslee]

61. I am so sorry for Keph, Keph's mom, you & everyone here at DU.

Lets keep fighting for him.

[rbnyc]

62. Democracy for America

Lynnesin and I were talking last night about where to donate funds in Scott's name. We thought Democracy for America would be best.

Thanks for your words and this thread.

[RogueTrooper]

63. Thanks for posting this Skinner

:grouphug:

[RogueTrooper]

94. Carlos sends his sympathies as well

[Cha]

64. I'll miss you, Kheph..My first memory of DU was

was the Eye of Khephra.. DU and Democracy has lost an Extraordinary Voice and Friend..We'll carry on, Kheph! O8)

My Heartfelt Sympathies to Mama Kheph.:hug:


On edit~I wanted to thank you, Skinner, for this moving tribute to Kheph.

[DeposeTheBoyKing]

65. What a sad day yesterday was

I posted in the morning that it would be my mother's 80th birthday were she alive. Khephra died on her birthday, making the day even sadder. I didn't know him personally as so many here did, but am really saddened and moved by reading the tributes to him. Godspeed to a sensitive, intelligent, caring soul and fellow Deaniac.

[molly]

66. Thankyou for this post

[henslee]

67. A quote from Keph: "I really do think there's a collective unconsciousnes

out there... I've seen too many things in my dreams and thoughts in other people's work appear later to believe it isn't so."

We were PMing each other, talking about movie ideas. He was excited about Willy Wonka being made into a movie. (How cute is that?)
I am amazed at how many people post of similar experiences with Keph. He sure got around.

[rumpel]

68. I am too new to have known him and his tremendous contributions to DU, but

am deeply sadened to hear about his passing. So young, so unfair...I also admire Mama Keph's effort to let us know while it must have been a horrific time. In addition to the flowers, I wonder if there is anything we can do to support her?

[Spazito]

69. Thank you for providing a way for us to donate in Khephra's memory

I tend to stay in LBN and greatly appreciated Khephra's tremendous work in providing us with the latest, world-wide news. It was Khephra's posts in LBN that caused me to join DU, LBN will never be quite the same.

[dolo amber]

70. Lovely tribute to an amazing guy

Thanks Skinner.

[fluffernutter]

71. i'm so sad. my heart goes out to his mom&family,

thank you, Skinner, what a beautiful tribute.

[CrownPrinceBandar]

72. Vaya con Dios, Kef..............................

:cry:

[Stepup2]

73. I wish I would have joined

rather than lurk as long as I did. It would have been an honor to post in one of his threads.

[joanski01]

74. Thank you, Skinner.

I want very much to donate toward the flowers for Khephra's mother, and I will as soon as I finish this.

I met Khephra on this board in about April of 2001, when I found it via Buzzflash. Kef always treated me as a personal friend. He always answered my posts and even PM'd me. We worked together for a while, when we kept up the LBN thread on the Senate proceedings. I am totally shocked, teary-eyed, and saddened. I will miss him greatly.

[rug]

75. When I first registered

I went to archives to see how DU handled 9/11. The first post was . . . Khephra. It is a loss.

[Blaukraut]

76. Thank you, Skinner

I'm still in shock. This just isn't fair. Kef had so much more to contribute to this world. We lost a devoted advocate for our cause, but most importantly, a good friend. :cry:

[Lydia Leftcoast]

77. Thank you, Skinner

Khepthra indeed contributed a great deal to DU, but I think it's also true that DU contributed a great deal to him, giving him a chance to exercise his considerable talents for writing and organization.

So I think that you and EarlG and Elad contributed to making his last years richer and more fulfilling than they might have been otherwise.

[Tom_Foolery]

78. Like some of you, I didn't know Khephra personally...

but I did gain knowledge from his writings. I always had the impression that he had fought many demons in his life; but when he found DU, he was handed the weapon to fight many of them. He was a man with many passions.

His death is a great tragedy to this community, but his life will always be a greater gift to all of us. Just like Paul Wellstone, a liberal voice has been silenced. It is now left to us the living to continue Khephra's fight. We must pick up the banner.

He is now at rest. As he is now, we all will be someday. Until then, let's keep his memory alive by fighting the good fight.

RIP, Khephra.

[yardwork]

79. Khefra was always kind

That is the greatest attribute I can think of, and Khefra embodied it on a daily basis.

When I first joined DU I spent almost all my time in LBN. It was and is a tremendous resource. I didn't know that Khefra was the quiet power behind LBN.

Whenever I visited another DU forum Khephra was there, lending his gentle support to newbies and long-timers alike. I remember how welcome I felt when Khephra responded to one of my early posts, saying something like "that is a good point, yardwork." He did this hundreds of times a day, welcoming thousands - tens of thousands - of newbies to DU.

In Khephra's memory, and as a commitment to carrying on his work, I will redouble my efforts to post new articles in LBN. I know that tens of thousands of us are making the same commitment today.

Rest in peace, gentle Khephra. We will continue the work.

[Laurab]

80. I am too new to have known him at all

Yet the stories and tributes posted still make me want to cry. Obviously he had a huge impact on many people, and it is heartbreaking to even me, who didn't know him.

Would it be inappropriate to suggest additional donations go to DU itself? It just seems that he had a huge impact here, and that this was a forum in which he invested a lot of time and energy.

I intend to donate, and I know that the money will be well spent whatever is decided. I am only sorry I haven't been around long enough to know him.

[Fenris]

81. Death, always cruel, Pity's foe in chief,

Mother who brought forth grief,
Merciless judgment and without appeal!
Since thou alone hast made my heart to feel
This sadness and unweal,
My tongue upbraideth thee without relief.

And now (for I must rid thy name of ruth)
Behoves me speak the truth
Touching thy cruelty and wickedness:
Not that they be not known; but ne'ertheless
I would give hate more stress
With them that feed on love in very sooth.

Out of this world thou hast driven courtesy,
And virtue, dearly prized in womanhood;
And out of youth's gay mood
The lovely lightness is quite gone through thee.

Whom now I mourn, no man shall learn from me
Save by the measure of these praises given.
Whoso deserves not Heaven
May never hope to have her company.

:cry:

Farewell, old friend.

[proud patriot]

82. words haven't been coming easy for me since I learned the news

that my friend died . Thank you Skinner for voicing
what has been too difficult for me to type .

But I will give it a try now .

Like Khephra I joined the Dean Campaign very early
in 2003 . He was so Happy to be a part of a peoples
movement by working for Howard Dean . I remember
when he got back from a Tool concert I was eager to
learn about the show cause I'm a huge Tool fan and
have yet to see them live .

I remember when Khephra joined Democratic Underground
He was an Inspiration and a Teacher to me from the start.
I turn 36 this year so I'm very close in age he always
remembered all the cartoons and songs I do .

I remember talking to him about his recovery and being
so proud of him over coming life's adversaries .

Best of all I had the Honor as serving as a Moderator
with him . He was always Fair and was a role model for
me a newbie first term mod Learning the ropes.

I will akways keep him close to my Heart , for
Khephra is a part of who I am today .

I'm not sure when the tears will stop flowing ,

I miss you Kheph

[nothingshocksmeanymore]

83. I just can't quit crying today..I can only imagine Momma K's grief

[City Lights]

84. Well said, Skinner.

Khephra is the DUer I remember most from my days as a luker, way back when. I, too, remember the days when he was LBN. He was a kind and gentle soul who will be greatly missed. :cry:

Rest in peace, my friend.

[Nikia]

85. He is sadly missed

I think what Khephra has proven to all of us is that we all can make a difference, no matter what our circumstances. As I understand it he overcame many obstacles to do what he believed in. This desire and belief lead to his enormous contributions on DU and for other liberal causes. In that, he touched thousands of lives. May his memory live on in us all and be an inspiration for us all.

[Bouncy Ball]

86. Oh you will be so missed.....

What a dear, dear man. I was one of his quieter fans. I always noticed him, always loved his posts, drawn to the stories he posted in LBN, but I never got to know him as some here did, and that will always be my loss........

May you rest in peace, Scott....

[cally]

87. I will miss Kephra much

Like many of you, I joined DU when Kephra was LBN. Many of us would try to find a new story to post before Kephra found it. I think I only found one or two. He was so well informed.

Kephra was always willing to have fair discussions on this board. His posts were always thoughtful and kind. He made me think much about supporting Dean, separation of church and state, and opposition to the Iraq war. I will miss his thoughtful, kind presence. Democracy and DU have lost a great fighter and friend.

Thanks for the post Skinner.

[Ramsey]

88. Rest in peace, Scott

I will miss you more than I can say.

Libby Ramsey

[ZoCrowes]

89. RIP Kef

You will be missed buddy

[underseasurveyor]

90. Scott's passing is painful. Thank You Skinner that was beautifully said.

This hurts. My heart aches so:cry:

[Ladyhawk]

91. I didn't know Khephra, but I know I've read hundreds of his posts.

Please let me extend my condolences to those of you who knew him well and to his mother who had the heartbreaking experience of finding her son dead.

I'm also sorry for the loss to DU of someone who contributed so much and was regarded so highly.

Pace

[DinahMoeHum]

92. Good G*d, Skinner, I didn't know this until now. What a shock.

Scott (aka Khephra), you truly were a pillar of DU from its early days.

Via con Dios, buddy.

O8)

[flamingyouth]

93. Farewell, friend

You will be greatly, deeply missed here on DU. :cry:

[Melinda]

95. Thank you for the moving tribute to Keph, for allowing us to contribute...

and thank you Keph for sharing so much of yourself with our DU family. You will always be missed, but never forgotten. Sleep well, good and gentle soul.

[deutsey]

96. I'm in shock.

Farewell, Kheph. Words fail me. :evifrown:

[Carl Brennan]

97. Truly a very sad thing to hear.

Khephra will be missed badly. I hope he rests in peace.

:cry:

[Owl]

98. Rest in peace, Scott

You will be greatly missed.

- Owl

[KC21304]

99. We are all the better for your presence here, Khephra.

We will miss your tireless work for our cause. LBN will never be the same. Rest in peace my friend.

:cry:

Thanks for your wonderful words, Skinner.

[mogster]

100. Nice words, Skinner.

As a newcomer, I hadn't gotten to know him yet. But I've for sure read a lot of his posts in the LBN. And he shines in the light of the response from all here.
It's a good sign for a community that it takes care of it's own.

[VolcanoJen]

101. Beautifully said, Skinner. RIP, my sweet friend, my Scott, my Kef.

Thanks for that, Skinner.

I'm heartbroken, we all are. :-(

[Gemini Cat]

102. Thank-you Khephra where ever you are

You never knew me, but I knew of you and I was always grateful of your work on LBN. You always keep me up to date and you have been one of my favourites.

Skinner, thank-you for the kind words.

[Florida_Geek]

103. kick

:kick:

[librechik]

105. farewell

glad I got to say :loveya: to Kheph more than once over the years. His personality here meant more to me than I knew--I'm still in tears. So long, good buddy!

Thanks for the beautiful words, David.

[Rabrrrrrr]

106. Holy Shit! That's really, really sad

I just had a wonderful weekend away, and then come back to this...

Khephra has long eben one of my faves here, and we chatted and PMed somewhat often. We were even hoping to meet up together sometime soon and hang out for a week or a weekend.

Thaks for letting us know, Skinner.

I shall indeed miss Khephra, the friend I never met in meat space but who was, indeed, considered a friend.

I'll never see the eye again without thinking of you, my friend.

Farewell; though I know we shall someday meet.

[mdmc]

108. RIP

(I waleays thought that 'he' was a chick).

[VOX]

107. "Kef" was one of a kind, and a treasure.

I always enjoyed giving him advice on the viewing order of his customary weekend stack of DVDs.

Kef was a tireless fighter for our cause. He was on top of things like no one else. His diligence, perseverance and humor will be sorely missed, to say the least.

Godspeed, Kef -- now you're free of the physical pain that dogged you for so long, and your good spirit lives on in our hearts.

Farewell -- :hug:

PS: Kef, I can't believe I'm writing this! :cry:

[Piperay]

109. Sweet Kef

You were one in a million, you touched many lives and will be missed always.

[FizzFuzz]

110. I'm sad to say I missed most of his posts

It seems I missed someone very special

:(

[aquart]

111. True, Skinner. True.

[susu369]

112. Khephra was the consummate gentleman

Sorry, I did not have the pleasure of meeting him in person.

Right now, his brilliant star is shining....

[Walt Starr]

113. I'm devestated

just...devestated.

:cry:

[mzmolly]

114. "Only the good die young"

Comes to mind right now.

I am so sorry for the loss that so many of you are feeling. I never met Kheph in person, but of course as a DU-er I knew who he was. I will miss his presence here very much. I can only assume that he is filling a need in some other dimension and where ever that is, they are rejoicing.

RIP Scott

[KoKo]

115. Still thinking about Keph.. His funeral isn' even decided...I just want to

keep going until I know his spirit is settled. Just my own religious hang up..here..

[DrGonzoLives]

117. What?

When did this happen? Shit.

Rest in peace, Scott. I'm glad I had the chance to meet you and drag you to that first DU meet at davsand's a couple of years ago.

[RFKHumphreyObama]

118. Kef

You were a truly, truly wonderful person who added an enormous dimension of love, kindness, generosity and goodwill to this forum that will never quite adequately be described in words. You added a wonderful dimension to my life and your legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of so many on this forum. You helped make DU what it is today. I'm truly saddened that I never got to meet you in person

I'll never forget you and I'll always miss you Scott

[GCP]

119. I only just found out about this

I am so sad, I didn't know Kheph personally but we posted back and forth a few times and it was always a positive experience. He was a really nice guy and my heart goes out to Mama Kheph. I think this poem by WH Auden says it perfectly:

Stop all the clocks, cut off the telephone.
Prevent the dog from barking with a juicy bone,
Silence the pianos and with muffled drum
Bring out the coffin, let the mourners come.

Let aeroplanes circle moaning overhead
Scribbling in the sky the message He is Dead,
Put crêpe bows round the white necks of the public doves,
Let the traffic policemen wear black cotton gloves.

He was my North, my South, my East and West,
My working week and my Sunday rest
My noon, my midnight, my talk, my song;
I thought that love would last forever, I was wrong.

The stars are not wanted now; put out every one,
Pack up the moon and dismantle the sun.
Pour away the ocean and sweep up the wood;
For nothing now can ever come to any good.

[Catchawave]

120. To all

:grouphug:

[Lenape85]

121. I'll pray for him

[Left Is Write]

122. I hope his gentle soul is at peace.

[BlueEyedSon]

123. Words are hardly capable of conveying our feelings in these times

but the posts from Skinner & WRP come close to perfection on this occasion.

I came to know Kef through his posts and assumed he was a DU moderator or some kind of super-duper-user. His posts were everywhere and always right on target. I joined DU when there were less than 19000 members and his name was the first I began to recognize out of all the others. Clearly a special man. He will be missed.

Sincerely,
BlueEyedSon

[sonias]

124. We are all Khephra now

Khephra lives on in all of us. Those of us who knew him personally or though all his work here on DU and other boards. We all have to work extra hard to make sure we keep this going for us and for Khephra.

Your work here is done but never forgotten. We will miss you dearly.
Safe trip to the next existence Scott.


Sonia

[salin]

131. a little joint levity (inside joke on keph's "We are All Will Pitt"

classic thread - and a truth -- that he lives on through us. Great post. (One of the only chuckles I have had, thinking of the keph's thread, during these threads... Keph would definitely have appreciated it.)

[Neecy]

125. oh, no

I've been digging out of an ice storm and my electricity has been out since Wednesday. Tonight I sign on to find this terribly sad news.

We've had a lot of interaction over the years, and I feel like I've lost a true friend and compatriot. I hope he knows that we'll carry on with the work of democracy, and we'll remember him with every victory to come.

He was a good man, and he'll be missed.

[Skittles]

126. my sweet Kef

forever in my heart

[Florida_Geek]

127. kick for Sunday night

:kick:

[ignatius 2]

128. Goodbye,Kef. May you now be in a better place without endless wars

and human beings harming other human beings. You are a kind and gentle man and I hope that peace and happiness will be yours for all eternity.

This world was never meant for one as beautiful as you but I am glad that you were here for you made a difference to many of us.

RIP,gentle man.

[Pale Blue Dot]

130. Goodbye, Khephra

I never met you, and only talked to you briefly on the phone once, but you were, and remain, a symbol of what the internet can be. You turned a collection of ones and zeros into a living, breathing human being; someone who I looked forward to seeing every day.

You know the answers now, my friend. I know that you will be there, in the fifth dimension we call "cyberspace", to guide us to victory in the coming years.

You still exist, among the ones and zeros. I still see you here.

[Bride of Cthulhu]

132. Farewell, Khephra

RIP. :cry::cry::cry:

[Az]

133. We are a family and we have lost one of our own

We will have to help each other that much more now.

[Minstrel Boy]

134. Thanks Khephra, for reminding us

we're more than the sum of our pixels. Some, much more.

[TankLV]

135. There will be a big hole in DU now.

The good die young, too early.

I am at a loss for words.

Can't believe how many threads I turn to and it was one of his.

[KTM]

136. Back in the day

when I first came here, there was a daily Lounge thread at midnight... we tried to be the first to post in the new day, and Kheph was always there. Kheph was a late-nighter, always up and just blanketing LBN into the wee hours of the night. Because I am a night owl, it seemed then that half of what I read here came from Big K. He was a late night hero.

It seems so odd to me to feel so sad over the loss of someone whom I've never met... I recall his picture, and his tireless postings, and his humour and good nature, and it is crushing to accept his loss.

Whatever comes next when we go, I hope, for him at least, it is heavenly. A gentle giant, the kindest of souls, he deserves nothing less.

[catzies]

137. It's harder for those who are left behind.

He's on a beautiful journey and it'll be awhile before we get to see him again. Khephra, I hope to meet you next time.

[Name removed]

138. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[Rocinante]

141. When I first started posting here

man did I post some silly, messed up stuff. I still do I suppose. But he was always kind and helpful to me, and I will never forget it.

[The_Casual_Observer]

142. Khephra will be sorely missed. Just seeing the name posted

said to me "Welcome back to DU today, I have been hard at it!" and lifted my spirits. Thank you for your dedication and good vibes all these years.

T_C_O

[philosophie_en_rose]

143. "as long as we're here, so is he."

As much as I love DU, I'm only a visitor in a place that is other people's home. I stop by, make small talk in the lounge, and eavesdrop elsewhere. Khephra was a welcoming presence. I'm grateful for his thoughtfulness and his dedication to making the board a place to look forward to.

[jus_the_facts]

144. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

:cry:

[tavalon]

145. I didn't know Kephra

but from what I have read here since yesterday, he was good people. As are all of you. The good thing is that he will live on in the hearts and minds of thousands of people. The even better thing is that we will continue his work.

I suspect that you'll need to donate some of the money to a Kephra worthy cause as I suspect you will have enough money to buy a whole Florist's shop of flowers.

There are times when we see DUers behaving badly. This is not one of those times. Bless each and every one of you as you grieve this fine man. Especially his mother as she faces the most difficult thing any parent will ever do, burying her child.

[Swamp Rat]

146. Good bye Khephra

[Sleepless In NY]

147. "Of all sad words of tongue or pen, the saddest are these,

'what might have been'" John Greenleaf Whittier

I only knew Khephra through his posts, which I enjoyed so much.

Sympathies to you Skinner, his family & his friends.

[Paradise]

148. So sad...

:(

[Maeve]

149. Thanks, Boss--Kheph taught a lot of us to moderate here at DU

And helped us thru so many tough times.

[cleofus1]

150. Goodbye Keph

He was one of the few who actually posted regularly in my old comic book thread in the meeting room...may he rest in peace.

[ChavezSpeakstheTruth]

151. Much love to you Brother Keph - I hope the Journey up there was pleasant!

I'm sure in heaven they have a personal anime theater just for you and your friends!

- Rest in Peace!

[hunter]

171. Yeah, I'll bet!

I'm certain that was one hot chariot, and hmmmmm, the anime too...

[derby378]

152. Khephra, wherever you are - One Love

From one Invader Zim fan to another. Thanks for everything you've done to build up DU into what it now is.

Jah love, Shalom, Blessed be. Pick your favorite, run with it, and shine on, you crazy diamond. We will always miss you.

[redqueen]

153. Oh my God

This place won't be the same.

:cry:

[pmbryant]

154. Horrible news

I never really knew him or interacted with him much, but as long as he was posting here, I always knew at least something was right in the world.

It is tragic that he died so young.

:-(

Peter

[ThorsHammer]

155. RIP Khephra

I never talked to him here as I just joined a few months back, but from the multiple threads devoted to him he seemed like a helluva guy. RIP Khephra/Scott.

[Shakespeare]

156. Skinner, you are so right about Scott's importance here. Thank you.

I am just stunned--this was the first thing I saw online this morning, after being away from the computer all weekend.

I feel like somebody sucked all the air out of my body--I can't imagine Kheph not being here. He is DU, in so many ways. I'm so glad I had the opportunity to serve as a mod with him for a few terms (under a different screen name)--he was a delightful individual, and had a heart too big for this often ugly world. Even if you disagreed with Scott on an issue, you never, ever doubted his heart was in the right place, and he always meant the best. Would that we could all be more like that.

I will miss him, and regret that I'll never have the chance to meet him in person.

What a profound loss. :cry:

[last_texas_dem]

157. He will be missed

I can remember seeing so many good posts with so much important information with his name on it and being amazed at how much just one person was helping me and everyone else here to stay informed about things. I don't recall that we ever communicated person-to-person through posts on here but I feel as if I knew him all the same. His presence and his postings will definitely be missed, and I wish the best to his family and everyone on here who knew him well. I wish him peace.

[ibegurpard]

158. A class act

and a tremendous loss to DU. I'm heartsick.

[denverbill]

160. I agree Skinner. At one time, he WAS LBN.

Khephra changed LBN from a place where all the news was old news to a place I could go to find news that hadn't shown up on the mainstream media websites yet. DU LBN became Breaking only after Khep started posting.

News of his death was very sad news indeed. He will be greatly missed at DU.

[Beaverhausen]

161. He will be missed

I'm relatively new as well but always loved reading his posts.
Heck, I thought that somehow posting the stories at LBN was his job!

Life is so short and precious. Make sure the ones you love know it!

:cry:

[Desertrose]

162. Hard to believe...we miss you, Kef

you are such a part of us at DU....the place will never be the same....but be sure you will live on in the hearts of many of us here....

:cry::hug:
DR

[KamaAina]

163. The original Khephra was the sacred dung beetle of Egypt

now you know.

No one -- but no one -- could chew up the dung spewed forth by the reich wing and churn it into fertilizer like our Khephra.

What were Egyptians supposed to do when their sacred dung beetle died? Shave off their eyebrows, like when their cats died? (Ouch.)

:cry: :cry: :cry:

[NYYFan]

164. I cannot find the words

to express my sadness. ;( Scott was a true friend, a gentle soul, and truly loved DU and all of us. Even though I never met him face to face, I know from his words and actions on DU what type of person he was, and I am all the better for it.

Rest in Peace, my friend.

:loveya:O8)

[David Zephyr]

165. Only Now Discovering This Awful News. I Miss Him.

I have just come to work this morning and logged in at the DU only to find this heartbreaking and tragic news.

Skinner, every word you wrote about this precious man is true.

I felt such kinship with his soul these years and when he wrote, it was as if he were speaking for me.

I miss you Kephra greatly.

You were loved.

[Skinner]

166. I just spoke briefly with Kephra's mother.

She asked me to let all of you know how much she appreciates the outpouring of kindness and support from DU.

You are in our thoughts and prayers, Mama Kef. :cry:

[XanaDUer]

167. Deepest Condolences to his family.

I did not know him well, but we do not need to lose one other progressive.

May he R.I.P.

[myrna minx]

168. The world seems empty without you, Kheph.

:cry:

[slutticus]

169. Kick.

R.I.P Khephra

[THUNDER HANDS]

170. I can't believe this

Its so horrible. I am a day behind this and I just feel so...so, numb.

RIP Kheph. :cry:

[Nostradammit]

172. Farewell, Keph - Thanks for all you did here

Thanks for all the updates and the gentle demands that we remain civil. You've earned some stars in your crown - enjoy the rest of eternity.

[IndianaGreen]

173. Kef was a supporter of Americans United for Separation of Church and State

and one would find Kef manning the AU table during the city's arts and culture festival.

http://www.auindy.org/

[joeybee12]

174. Rest in peace, Kephra

We will all miss you.

[robbedvoter]

175. I didn't realize how much I'll miss him. He was everywhere on DU

Here's one of his posts on the "Ancient wisdom..."group
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=262x307
Khephra  (1000+ posts) Wed Dec-01-04 01:26 AM
Response to Reply #1
3. You got it wrong...you're allowed to eat hot dogsEdited on Wed Dec-01-04 01:29 AM by khephra
but without the bun. You can only eat the buns on Friday, as I understand it, as Friday is the day we "remonstrate against" all religions--even Discordianism.
THE FIVE COMMANDMENTS (THE PENTABARF)
The PENTABARF was discovered by the hermit Apostle Zarathud in the Fifth Year of The Caterpillar. He found them carved in gilded stone, while building a sun deck for his cave, but their import was lost for they were written in a mysterious cypher. However, after 10 weeks & 11 hours of intensive scrutiny he discerned that the message could be read by standing on his head and viewing it upside down.
KNOW YE THIS O MAN OF FAITH!
I - There is no Goddess but Goddess and She is Your Goddess. There is no Erisian Movement but The Erisian Movement and it is The Erisian Movement. And every Golden Apple Corps is the beloved home of a Golden Worm.
II - A Discordian Shall Always use the Official Discordian Document Numbering System.
III - A Discordian is Required during his early Illumination to Go Off Alone & Partake Joyously of a Hot Dog on a Friday; this Devotive Ceremony to Remonstrate against the popular Paganisms of the Day: of Catholic Christendom (no meat on Friday), of Judaism (no meat of Pork), of Hindic Peoples (no meat of Beef), of Buddhists (no meat of animal), and of Discordians (no Hot Dog Buns).
IV - A Discordian shall Partake of No Hot Dog Buns, for Such was the Solace of Our Goddess when She was Confronted with The Original Snub.
V - A Discordian is Prohibited of Believing what he reads.
IT IS SO WRITTEN! SO BE IT. HAIL DISCORDIA! PROSECUTORS WILL BE TRANSGRESSICUTED.
http://www.principiadiscordia.com/book/11.php

[mvd]

176. He will be missed tremendously

I'm still in shock. Thank you very much for setting up the donation page.

[guitar man]

177. Oh no...

Damn! I have been gone for 11 days and just logged back on. I always loved reading his posts, full of wit and wisdom.

Godspeed, Khepra....:cry: