The late Vic Heyman and his wife Reba

Vic Heyman passed away on Tuesday, and the folk community is mourning the loss of one of the most supportive individuals to have graced our “family”.

Vic and his wife Reba were folkies who were so much more than just enthusiastic supporters. For a number of years they ran a very successful concert series in the Washington DC area, but their love of the music AND the people who make music would bring them to all corners of the globe. You would see Vic and Reba at every Folk Alliance conference and many regional events as well. Vic was a former board member of the Kerrville Folk Festival and they attended numerous festivals across the country each summer. Vic and Reba also wrote reviews for Sing Out! magazine.

But that is just the surface contributions. Vic and Reba became “parents” to many of the musicians that make up our wonderful community. Their support and encouragement went beyond the casual service that most people give. Vic and Reba embraced this community and the individuals that made it – and I sincerely think that it is because of people like Vic and Reba that in recent years we have been treated to some of the most powerful songs and artists. Their nurturing of their “children” helped many artists gather the courage to go out on a stage and to realize a dream. Their support and endearing friendship was legendary.

I had the pleasure of serving with Vic and Reba on the formal showcase committee for the Northeast Regional Folk Alliance. I remember one year a certain songwriter won the hearts of Vic and Reba, and also myself. The other judges were not as thrilled. Vic and Reba created t-shirts with this artists picture and wore them during the weekend, always cheering her on whenver she performed in a showcase.

The last few years had been tough on Vic, but he still kept going. They were at Falcon Ridge this year, and in November we had a chance to see them at NERFA. I don’t think anyone thought it would be goodbye.

For those of you who know Reba, I’m sure she would appreciate hearing from you at this difficult time. If you would like her address, please contact me.

My thoughts, prayers and love are with Reba and her family. I will always remember Vic with a deep fondness. He was an inspiration and I hope I can give back some love to this wonderful folk community as he did every single day.