Pennie Nichols, a friend of Adelaide “Dela” Stuart Frazier, said despite her 10-year struggle with leukemia, Frazier was always willing to help Nichols with the struggles in her life.
“I miss her graceful way of living through, above and in spite of any mess,” Nichols said.
A memorial service was held Saturday afternoon at the French House for Frazier, a retired University French professor who died May 27 from complications of her leukemia.
Many of Frazier’s friends and colleagues shared memories of her at the service in the Grand Salon.
“I may be a bit biased,” said Frazier’s brother Bill, “but Dela was the most beautiful person I’ve ever known.”
Those who did not know Frazier had leukemia would have never guessed, Nichols said, and she lived a joyful and giving life despite her disease.
Frazier often traveled to France with French studies professor Kevin Bongiorni, who told stories at the service of how Frazier made the most of her trips to the country. His stories prompted much laughter from those in
attendance.
“She knew the most important places to be in Paris,” Bongiorni said.
Frazier was passionate and engaging in her teaching, said French studies professor Adelaide Russo. Frazier also played a role in introducing business into the French program’s curriculum, Russo said.
Frazier retired only a year ago, Nichols said, and remained a dedicated professor while fighting her disease and enduring painful treatments.
A business generations of students can learn about her, said French studies instructor Jean-Xavier Brager.
Brager said Frazier helped him get his current position by introducing him to University staff when a job in the French Department became available.
Eric Horent, a friend of Frazier, said Frazier’s disease brought out the best in her, and the kindness she showed to his children was her biggest impact on him.
“Dela had many best friends,” Horent said. “She was so much to so many people.”
The service ended when those in attendance filled the room with their singing of “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” in memory of Frazier and her favorite sport, baseball.
 
 
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Contact Brian Sibille at [email protected]