The Virgin Islands Department of Health joins the Virgin Islands community in mourning the passing of Gerville Larsen — a visionary architect, cultural advocate, and true friend to the Department.
Mr. Larsen, through his firm Taller Larjas, was an integral part of the design team for the new Dr. Donna M. Christian-Christensen Public Health Facility. His work reflected a rare ability to blend our culture and heritage with innovation — creating spaces that honor the past while serving the needs of the present and future.
I remember often turning to him in those final moments of decision and asking, “Gerville, what are your thoughts? Are we in line with our cultural heritage?” His guidance always felt grounded, inspired, and true. I smile at the memory of his wisdom and calm, even as a quiet sadness settles in — knowing that while he is no longer beside us, his spirit lives on in every wall, every color, every corner he helped bring to life.
Working in collaboration with FLAD Architects, Mr. Larsen’s design vision helped bring to life the concepts of healing and community that define this new facility — from bringing the outdoors inside to creating open, restorative spaces that nurture both body and spirit.
Mr. Larsen’s contribution to public health in the Virgin Islands goes beyond architecture — it is a legacy of compassion, culture, and care. His work stands as a lasting reminder that healing can be found not only in medicine, but in the spaces we share and the culture we embrace. We are deeply grateful for his partnership and his vision.
Steve Jackson, a FLAD principal who worked closely with Mr. Larsen shared his thoughts with me stating that, “Mr. Larsen will be greatly missed. His unwavering commitment to the preservation of Virgin Islands culture through art and architecture reflected his deep love for the community. As a leader, he played a pivotal role in advancing a state-of-the-art healthcare environment in the territory, leaving an enduring legacy of innovation, cultural pride and service.”
The Department of Health extends heartfelt condolences to his family, colleagues, and the entire Virgin Islands architectural community. His impact will continue to be felt through the many spaces he shaped and the lives they will serve.