Rory Root, 1958 - 2008

Rory Root, the beloved owner of Berkeley's revolutionary comic bookstore, Comic Relief and an ardent supporter of the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund passed away yesterday at the age of 50.

Rory was a dear friend of the Fund and of the comics industry at large. He was an instrumental champion for comics diversity, and advancing the graphic novel format. He was a pioneer for bringing graphic novels to libraries, and an outspoken advocate for the field's best work.

Over the years, Rory has hosted several CBLDF events, and has provided valuable advice for our education and legal initiatives. All of us at the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund extend our sincere condolences to his family, staff, and many, many friends. He will be deeply missed.

Full obituary: The Comics Reporter

Tributes: Collective Memory

Photo by Whit Spurgeon, courtesy of The Comics Reporter

UPDATED: Comic Relief and the Root family request, "If you would like to make a contribution to the cause that
Rory kept very close to his heart you can make a donation to
The Comic Book Legal Defense Fund (CBLDF) in his name." To make a donation, click here and include "Rory Root" in the comments field at check out.

We at the CBLDF are once again humbled by Rory's generous spirit.