08/08/2026
We’re sad to share the news that Donn Vickers, founding director of Thurber House, has passed away. His generosity, kindness, and remarkable capacity to do good in the world were a profound testament to a life well lived. We are grateful to have known him. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and the many lives he touched.
Dear Thurber friends,
With heavy hearts, we share the news that Thurber House’s founder and first executive director, Donn Vickers, passed away on Wednesday, August 5, at the age of 91.
The beloved leader of Thurber House from 1984 to 2001, Donn was an indispensable, highly respected, and deeply influential part of our history. As the first executive director of Thurber House, Donn was committed to establishing a space that celebrated writing and honored the legacy of James Thurber.
In true Thurber fashion, Donn led the organization with humor and compassion, bringing light and laughter to Thurber House. In the words of the late David Citino, acclaimed poet and professor, “You could have 500 people in an audience all laughing, but you’d still be able to hear Donn Vickers’ laugh. That laugh comes from his soul.”
Donn’s leadership, dedication, and vision laid the foundation for Thurber House to become the flourishing community that it is today. His loss will be felt deeply by our organization and across the Columbus community.
You can read Donn's obituary here: https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/worthington-oh/donn-vickers-12995211
A memorial service will be held Thursday, August 20, 2026 at 4 pm at Broad Street Presbyterian Church, 760 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43205.
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The Jefferson Avenue Center