Support and well wishes poured in within minutes of learning Remote Area Medical's founder and president Stan Brock had passed away at 82.
Brock suffered a stroke in recent days which lead to his passing, CEO Jeffrey Eastman said.
"It is with great sadness that Remote Area Medical announces the passing of our Founder and President, Stan Brock. Mr. Brock passed away today in Knoxville, Tennessee at the age of 82. Since he began RAM in 1985, Mr. Brock has been a tireless advocate for those in need, and through his leadership, RAM has provided free care to more than 740,000 individuals," Eastman said in a letter announcing his passing Wednesday.
Until this, there was nothing that could stop Brock from helping others. His mission grew from a small effort to make change to an organization that made waves.
Whether they swoop into a remote third world village, a bustling metropolitan city, or a rural Appalachian town -- the mission of Remote Area Medical is always the same.
It wasn't just the people who attended those clinics that came to love and appreciate Brock.
Those fortunate enough to serve alongside him and follow his journey also felt his sheer force of good.
Dr. Tim Williams worked with Brock and RAM for several years. He works in general dentistry at UT Medical Center.
Following the news, he sat down with 10News to share his memories of Brock.
Knox County Mayor Tim Burchett released the following statement on the passing of Brock:
“Stan Brock was a dear friend, and I was honored that he once shared Christmas dinner with my family. I am thankful for that memory and am saddened by his passing. Watching him as a kid on TV, he was larger than life, and I was star-struck the first time I met him. But Stan was more than a celebrity. He started Remote Area Medical and dedicated his life to serving others. East Tennessee and communities across the globe, are better off because of him.”