Friends, family and colleagues of the late Ray J. Wu, Cornell professor of molecular biology and genetics and a pioneer in the field of plant genetic engineering, gathered to honor him at Kendal at Ithaca on June 15.

Wu developed the first method for sequencing DNA, and he was a leader in the development of widely grown rice plants resistant to pests, drought and salt. He died in Ithaca Feb. 10 at age 79.

"Dr. Wu was a true visionary," said Ajay Garg, senior research associate and a member of Wu's laboratory since 1996, at the memorial service. "Professor Wu always encouraged members of the lab to explore new ideas, and he was committed to ensuring that the beneficial results of his research reach the maximum number of people possible across the world.

"Under his thoughtful and inspiring leadership, his laboratory became an institution within an institution at Cornell -- a place where students and researchers have the continuing opportunity to feed the hungry by advancing the field of plant biotechnology.

"He was a humble and kind person," Garg said, "and his legacy of untiring generosity will remain with us forever."

Cornell will hold a symposium in Wu's honor in October.