Former SVC President and Chancellor Passes

Former Southern Virginia College President and Chancellor Col. John Ripley, 69, passed away in his sleep at his home Sunday.

"We express our sincere condolences to Col. Ripley's family and our unwavering appreciation for his service to our country and this institution," said Southern Virginia University President Rodney K. Smith.

In 1996, Ripley, a retired Marine and Vietnam War hero, presided over the transfer of Southern Virginia College to a new board of trustees, comprised primarilly of Latter-day Saints.

Ripley is survived by his wife, Moline B. Ripley, 67; three sons, Stephen Ripley, 43, Thomas Ripley, 38, and John Ripley, 35; a daughter, Mary Ripley, 39; and eight grandchildren.

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