22 Jul 2016
Professor Jack Meadows
We are sad to announce that Jack Meadows, one of the University’s most esteemed Emeritus Professors, died peacefully on Monday night at the age of 82.
Jack is regarded worldwide as one of the most influential figures in Information Science and the History of Science.
Having gained a DPhil in Astronomy from New College, Oxford, Jack moved to the University of Leicester in 1965, where he went on to become Professor of Astronomy and History of Science. His career, and his renown, in astronomy were officially recognised when he had a planet named after him – Asteroid 4600 Meadows.
Jack came to Loughborough University in 1986 as Professor of Library and Information Studies in the then Department of Information Science. He held a number of senior managerial roles at Loughborough: Head of Department (1986-1990), Dean of Education and Humanities (1992-1995) and finally Pro Vice-Chancellor (1995-1996).
As well as being an inspirational teacher Jack authored many seminal publications in the Physical Sciences, History of Science and Information Science domains, most notably The Origins of Information Science (1987). He retired from the University in 2001 but always maintained strong links, popping in regularly to see how things were going and helping out wherever he could.
Jack was not just a huge academic star; he was also a friend and mentor to all who were fortunate enough to cross paths with him. He was always encouraging, supportive and cheerful, offering wisdom and insight as well as warmth and humanity. He and his wife, Jane, are remembered warmly as gracious hosts to all members of the department at the wonderful annual summer afternoon tea parties they held in their beautiful garden.
He will be sorely missed. Our condolences go to his wife and other family members.