Obituary: Jim Clardy, 828 International

Staff -- Home Accents Today, 4/1/2005

828 International President and founder Jim Clardy, 50, died in early April of complications from a heart attack.

While on a humanitarian trip to Moldova in 1992, Clardy was impressed by the craftsmanship of the Moldavian rug weavers and launched 828 to import the rugs for sale in the United States. His travels also led him to Tibet where he aided missionaries in the development of a rug factory. Samples from this factory will be on display in 828's showroom during the High Point market.

"828 International — its employees and salesmen — have lost more than a founder," said John Shepherd, CEO of 828 International. "We've lost a friend, a leader and a visionary. His presence will be missed, but his passion will continue to inspire us as we move the company ahead."

Clardy is survived by his wife, Martha, and children, Caleb and Andrea.