The news of Stevenson's tragic death is a painful shock. My friend Cindy's big brother, he always treated me with warmth and respect. I looked up to him. We shared a lot of great times as members of our high school's theater troupe. I will always remember his beautiful performance with our schoolmate Becky Smith in a dance based on a graphic story by Jules Feiffer. When I close my eyes, I can see his sparkling eyes and his warm, broad smile. I can hear his warm, friendly voice.

Over the years, I followed his brilliant career as a documentary filmmaker. It always made me happy to know he had made his home in the magical city New Orleans, and that he had become one of its important chroniclers. I love the music and the performances that he helped immortalize. It is crushing to think that he is no longer here.

Nell, though we have not met, I feel for you. I suffered a similar loss. You are in my heart and in my prayers.