In his day, Don Marsh was one of the most respected reporters, columnists and editors in West Virginia. A championed wordsmith, Don exposed corruption and hypocrisy during his 40-year tenure at the Charleston Gazette.

So it's almost ironic, during the worst pandemic in 100 years, we're crowning another Marsh for excellent work.

Dr. Clay Marsh, a son of Don, has become West Virginia's guiding light in the fight against COVID-19. Nicknamed the coronavirus czar, Clay has become a household name, answering questions and updating the state during Governor Jim Justice's briefings.

"It does feel to me that in some metaphorical way, I've picked up a torch from my dad," Clay said. "It's very cool for a whole bunch of reasons."

Following advice from his father, Clay chose the health profession instead of journalism. He's now in his sixth year as the vice president & executive dean for health sciences at West Virginia University and is a member of Justice's coronavirus task force.

Today, Clay credits his communication skills as a reason he's succeeded. A quality he learned from his dad.

"My dad was an information junkie," he said. "I picked up on his love for reading, and we used to debate each other regularly. He'd give me either side of an argument, and he'd beat me substantially on that side of the argument. Then he'd flip and take the side of the argument I had."

"It really did help me learn to talk, argue from points and have data to back up what you believe. All that has really played out nicely for the work I've done and have the privilege to do today."

In Clay's recent interview with the Mountaineer Media Podcast, he also shared some interesting stories about his dad, including Don's interview with Martin Luther King Jr., during the reverend’s visit to Charleston in 1960.

Clay also discussed the Marsh's family connection with John F. Kennedy, when they hosted the senator during his 1960 presidential race.

Make sure to check out the entire interview here.

"My dad loved this state and loved standing up for people who couldn't stand up for themselves," Clay said. "He was a person who believed in social justice."

Don Marsh died in 1999 and is remembered as an advocate for West Virginians. Through his work, he helped people who couldn't help themselves.

It's somewhat fitting during this health crisis, it's his son, Dr. Clay Marsh, who’s now the doing the same.