The Emory community suffered a great loss on December 2, 2011, when Fray Francis Marshall, MD, died at the age of 67 from cancer. Dr. Marshall was most recently Professor and Chairman of the Emory University Department of Urology. He was recognized as a true leader in academic medicine, and leaves behind countless patients, physicians, and others who were helped by his skill and lasting contributions to the field.
Those of us who had the good fortune of working closely with Fray came to value his thoughtfulness, ability to motivate, and insightful perception. He led by example, and served as a role model for the many urologists he trained. Dr. Marshall recognized the value of the individual, yet he placed equal if not more emphasis on team collaboration. Perhaps most importantly, he understood that "horizons were limited by extra urologic exposure," and fostered outside interests that made him an even better clinician, researcher, and teacher. Dr. Marshall loved nature and art, and could discuss these topics with ease and knowledge. He appreciated the importance of our environment, was fluent in French, and possessed an impressive understanding and love for photography that preferred simplicity in design and displayed great attention to detail.
Despite his incredibly productive career and many activities, Dr. Marshall always made time for his family; they were the part of his life of which he was most proud and the foundation that allowed him to reach his successes. His wife of 38 years, Lindsay, was a constant source of support and encouragement, and his children, Wheatley and Brooks, represented his ultimate accomplishment. His first grandchild, Otis Fray Marshall, was born to Brooks and his wife, Kami, just several months before Dr. Marshall's death, and he was thrilled that he was able to spend time with Otis on several occasions.
Grateful patients and friends contributed funds to establish the Fray F. Marshall, MD, Chair in Urology at the Emory University School of Medicine. The Chair was presented in March 2011 and will be devoted to research within the Department of Urology, sustaining Dr. Marshall's dedication to research, academic excellence, and innovation.
Countless individuals benefited from Dr. Marshall's friendship, thoughtfulness, vibrancy, and skill. He inspired us all with his energy and kindness, and he will continue to be a role model for many. He often quoted from his "Handbook," which was filled with wisdom and wit, and is a suitable reminder of his legacy in both medicine and life. He was a visionary and transformative physician who motivated all those around him, and strove every day to "make a difference." Many urologists and friends attended a celebration of Dr. Marshall's life on December 10, 2011, in Atlanta, and shared wonderful reflections on an amazing family member, friend, and human being who will be greatly missed.
