Jay Rockefeller: “I was enormously saddened this past weekend to learn of the death of a good friend and fellow West Virginian, Ned H.…”

“I was enormously saddened this past weekend to learn of the death of a good friend and fellow West Virginian, Ned H. Guthrie, of Charleston. I have known Ned for many years, and I am most sincere when I say that without a doubt he was an incredible human being. Many in this Chamber who knew Ned Guthrie would agree that he championed a cause like no one I have ever known. Ned first lobbied me when I was Governor of West Virginia. Of course, I already knew Ned through his reputation across the State as an accomplished musician, band leader and businessman. As a musician, he ran with the best, beginning in the 1920's with John Philip Sousa, and continuing on to include Artie Shaw, Louis Armstrong, Harry James, Billie Holliday and Jack Benny, to name just a few. His musical career spanned well over 50 years. I fondly remember the drive and determination Ned gave his commitment to the repeal of the Lea Act, and the tenacity with which he pursued this endeavor.”