In Memory – Dr. Walter R. Thayer, Jr.
Walter Thayer, a 25 year member of RIWPS, was a one of this nations leading experts on Crohn’s and other gastrointestinal diseases and a man who harbored a life-long passion for nature. Later in life plants became the focus of this passion. He received a degree in Biology from the University of Rhode Island. He became an ardent supporter of the Plant Conservation Program in Rhode Island, conducting botanical forays that have led to discoveries of many plant populations. The Native Plant Trust (formerly the New England Wild Flower Society) that run this program, honored him with their Rhode Island State Award in 2014. Walter also served on the Editorial Advisory Committee of our WildfloraRI helping to shepherd this newsletter. Always the teacher, Walter welcomed RIWPS members and friends to consider the state of nature and plants whether in his own garden, at programs or in the wild.
