CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT MOURNS THE PASSING OF ARCHITECT & PRESERVATIONIST GERVILLE R. LARSEN

For Immediate Release Contact: Alayah Phipps

October 30, 2025 202-813-2793

PRESS RELEASE

CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT MOURNS THE PASSING OF ARCHITECT & PRESERVATIONIST GERVILLE R. LARSEN

U.S. Virgin Islands- Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement on the passing of esteemed Virgin Islands architect, artist, and cultural preservationist Gerville R. Larsen:

"The Virgin Islands has lost one of its great creative and cultural visionaries with the passing of Gerville Rene Larsen. Gerville was more than an architect - he was a steward of our history and an artist of our identity. His work captured the spirit of these islands, ensuring that the stories of our people and the beauty of our heritage were preserved for generations to come.

"After earning his degree in architecture from Cornell University, Gerville returned home to his beloved St. Croix, choosing to live in his grandparents' home in the heart of Times Square, downtown Christiansted. From there, he poured his heart into our community - using his immense talent to collaborate with both the public and private sectors on projects dedicated to historic architectural preservation. Through his firm, Taller Larjas, LLC, he designed with reverence for our past and vision for our future.

"I was blessed to know Gerville not only as a respected colleague on boards and admired fellow Hillsider descendant, but also as my neighbor and a friend. His presence was always acknowledged - in lively conversations, sharp insights, and deep care for the Virgin Islands.

"Gerville's belief that architecture is a vessel for culture and memory continues to guide us. His mark is visible throughout the Virgin Islands, but particularly on St. Croix - in the buildings he restored, the spaces he reimagined, and the lives he touched. I am grateful that my own son Christian was able as a young adult choristers major to have interned and been mentored by Gerville.

"My heartfelt condolences goes out to his family, his friends, and colleagues. May his memory be a blessing, and may his legacy inspire us all to continue building with purpose, pride, and love for our Virgin Islands. He will be deeply missed by his circle of friends, family, and the entire Virgin Islands community. We are thankful for his lifelong contributions to preserving the character and soul of our home."

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