Earthlink CEO Garry Betty passes away at 49

CNET is reporting that Earthlink CEO Garry Betty died yesterday at the age of 49 as a result of complications from cancer. Betty was first diagnosed with what was reported only as a "serious form of cancer" in November, after which took a medical leave from the company he had been with since 1996, with executive vice president Mike Lunsford stepping in to fill his role. As CNET mentions, Betty's tenure at Earthlink was marked in particular by the company's push to deliver massive, citywide WiFi networks to various municipalities in the country, many of which were launched this past year. For those wishing to pay their respects, Betty's family is suggesting that a donation be made to the cancer research foundation established in Betty's name -- contact information for it is available at the link below.

[Via CNET]

[Andrei Vassiliev @ Jan 4th 2007 7:32AM]

Yikes, poor guy. RIP.

[Michael Jalone @ Jan 4th 2007 9:53AM]

Our thoughts are with Garry's family and many friends during this tragic time. Rest in Peace Garry.

Michael and Julie Jalone
www.jalone.com

[shane barker @ Jan 4th 2007 11:16AM]

Our prayer's goes to Garry's family.

Shane and Lynne Barker
www.hot-pad.com

[cmccorvey @ Jan 4th 2007 12:44PM]

I worked with Garry at Hayes and at DCA back in the 80's and early 90's. He was a great guy and a powerful presence in any organization or group in which he worked or participated. He will be missed by many.

[nicleT @ Jan 4th 2007 2:40PM]

This is sad. All our condolences to his family.

[tpp @ Jan 4th 2007 7:41PM]

I was JUST reading about his plans for Earthlink in a recent Inc Magazine (I think) yesterday. Too bad, he sounded like a great person.

[Ms Natalie Ray @ Jan 5th 2007 8:15PM]

I did not know Mr.Garry Betty personally butI am part of his earthlink.net family
may God rest his soul and his spirit be with his family. Thank you