History Prof. Stephen Innes died Monday afternoon after a long battle with leukemia. He taught at the University for twenty-eight years.
"He was a great scholar, a firm friend and a devoted father," History Department Chair Charles W. McCurdy said. "He was one of the best teachers in the College."
Third-year College student Ross Baird said he enjoyed the two classes he took with Innes and said he received a great deal of guidance from Innes outside the classroom.
"He was the example of how a professor should be," Baird said.
Baird added that Innes' illness only added perspective to his teachings, strongly impacting the lives of his students.
Even in his last classes, Innes' love for his students shone through, Baird said. Aside from giving lectures, Innes led his own discussion sections and graded his students' papers despite large enrollment.
"During his time at U.Va., he made a deliberate effort to become acquainted with his students," Baird said. "He knew me well enough that he would know when I needed to fix something, and he was never afraid to confront and challenge me outside of the classroom."
Fourth-year College student Patricio Prieto said he also developed a relationship with Innes after taking his "Era of American Revolution" class last spring.
"He was one of the best professors I've had at the [University]," Prieto said. "He was an excellent teacher who tried to make us think outside the box."
Innes' legacy will live on through his students' recognition of his wisdom, Baird said.
"He always valued talent, ambition, direction and a good heart," Baird said.
Innes' viewing is scheduled for today between 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. at the Hill & Wood Funeral Home on 1st Street and Market Street downtown. The funeral is scheduled to take place at Holy Comforter Catholic Church Thursday at 11:30 a.m.
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