Lorinda Cherry, author of dc, bc, eqn has died (ncwit.org)

Article summary

Lorinda Cherry, a pioneering computer scientist, passed away. She worked at Bell Labs, where she contributed to the development of Unix and created influential mathematical tools such as bc, eqn, and dc. Cherry's work had a significant impact on the field of computer science, and she is remembered for her creativity and collaborative approach. Her legacy continues to inspire new generations of technologists.

Main themes

• Lorinda Cherry's legacy
• Unix and its tools
• community and mentorship
• changes in the tech industry
• niche interests
• personal connections

What commenters say

• The original title of the post was incorrect and should be changed to reflect that Brian Kernighan was not mentioned in the obituary.
• Lorinda Cherry's work on Unix and its tools, such as bc and eqn, is still appreciated and used today.
• The community is grateful for Cherry's contributions and the opportunities she provided for others to learn and grow.
• The ease of connecting with celebrities and experts has changed over time, with some arguing that it is now easier but less meaningful.
• The scarcity of nerds and programmers in the past created a sense of community and camaraderie that is harder to find today.
• The definition of a niche interest has changed over time, and what was once considered niche may now be more mainstream.
• The value of personal connections and mentorship in the tech industry should not be underestimated.
• The impact of Lorinda Cherry's work extends beyond her technical contributions to the people she inspired and mentored throughout her career.