Marsha Louise Frazier
September 11, 1949 - January 9, 2024
Marsha was born in Pratt Kansas on September 11, 1949 to Richard and Elva Frazier. Marsha was raised in Flint, Michigan. She received her Bachelor’s Degree from Michigan State University in Biology, a Master’s Degree in Microbiology from Miami University in Ohio and her PhD in Microbiology from Penn State University. Marsha loved medical science so predictably her career followed the arc of a science researcher in academia starting as a Graduate Assistant to Doctoral Fellowships to Assistant then Full Professorship at the University of Texas, M.D Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, TX where she worked for 30 years. Her last appointment was as Professor in the Department of Epidemiology, Division of Cancer Prevention.
Marsha’s research focused on gastrointestinal cancers. Her research concentrated on an understanding of the mechanisms of early onset cancers such as genetic disorders. Marsha taught graduate students, lectured at national and international conferences and mentored many upcoming researchers.
Marsha travelled extensively throughout the world presenting on her field of study. She would also visit her parents in Flint Michigan regularly and bring gifts to her brother’s family (2 nieces and 1 nephew).
Marsha loved cats and always cared for them in pairs.
Marsha’s hobbies included wind surfing, sailing and hiking. Marsha participated in competitive synchronized swimming in high school and college.
Marsha married Lee Hathon in June of 2003 at St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Cottonwood Heights, UT.
Marsha was a member of Altrusa in Houston TX. Altrusa is a women’s civic organization focused on community service.
She leaves behind her beloved husband, Lee Hathon and her brother, Richard (Kathy) Frazier II.
Despite the progression of Alzheimer’s disease, Marsha kept her pleasant demeanor.
A special and heartfelt thank you is extended to Emily Slater, Marsha’s companion-sitter. A thanks also to the staff at Aubrege at Aspen Park.
A graveside service will be on Saturday, January 13 at 2:00 PM at Memorial Mt. View Cemetery, 3115 Bengal Blvd, Cottonwood Heights.
In Loving Memory
Lee I extend my sincere condolences to you and Marsha's family. Knowing of your travels the last few years prayers for you all as you navigate this journey.
Marsha was one of my dearest friends in jr. high and high school. Many memories of our years in band, synchronized swimming, diving lessons, CANUSA GAMES and just being silly! My deepest condolences to Lee and Dickie and family. The road has not been easy at times, but she is finally at peace. Cherish the good times. Peace and love to all of you.
Lee and family, Marsha was my first mentor and friend when I joined the Saunder's lab in Houston for my PhD. We remained friends even after I left and went to Pittsburgh, and Tina woudl routinely update me on Marsha's life, including finding and marrying you. May she rest in peace. Wendy Mars
Lee- my heart goes out to you and your family at the news of Marsha's passing. I remember her very fondly as she was many times my partner walking to school (NW). She was so very kind. I pray that your fond memories of Marsha soon replace your grief as you hold her close in your heart. Linda
My deep condolence. Marsha was a wonderful person and will be greatly missed. May she rest in peace.
Lee, my heartfelt condolences to you and Marsha's family. Wishing you peace and comfort during this difficult time.
Dr. Frazier was a great mentor. Her smile and kindness will live in our heart forever.
Marsha was a dear friend and colleague at MD Anderson for over 30 years. She and I met attending a meeting in Berlin when she was a postdoctoral fellow and I was a graduate student and we became good friends. Marsha was an expert in the field of pancreatic cancer and without a doubt she made remarkable contributions to her field that live on and for which she will be remembered. She trained wonderful students and postdoctoral fellows who continue to make a difference in cancer research. What I will remember most about Marsha is her keen intellect combined with a kindness and caring that she showed all who knew her. She had a smile that could light up a room and had personality to match. She had a love for life and a passion for making a difference in the world. She lived a wonderful life and was so very happy married to Lee and being with his sweet family. I will miss her deeply but will never forget the friendship that she showed me, and I will always be grateful to have known her. Marsha was such a wonderful example to so many people of how to live life fully and love completely.
Lee, I am saddened by the news of your wife Marsha's passing. I loved listening to you talk about her and what an incredible person she was as we shared water exercising time at the rec center. I could tell in the short time I have known you that you loved her very much and were totally devoted to her. You set a great example of what it means to truly love another person no matter what life throws your way. I pray that God blesses you with comfort at this time of loss. Know that I am praying to that end for you and Marsha's family. Your friend, Shauna Cottonwood Heights pool friend.
I Miss Marsha so much. Lee and Marsha came into my life because of a construction clean in 2015 that I did for their remodel. Lee offered me a job cleaning their house every other week. Which slowly turned into a companion sitter for Marsha. Lee welcomed Iris (the dog), and my boys, and sister, and my Mom into their lives. I was treated like Family. It was a win win for all of us. I am forever Grateful to Marsha and Lee for this amazing opportunity to "hang out" with them. Love You
I am so sorry to learn of Marsha's passing. We were neighbors in Houston who became great friends. We shared many good times with my Aunt Dottie, even after I moved back to Ohio. I missed her warmth, generosity and friendship these past few years. I shall treasure her memory always.
Dear Lee, My sincere condolenses for the loss of your wife. I just found out about her untimely passing. May she rest in pease and may you find comfort in knowing that she is with the Lord. Your OSHA buddy, Demetra
In Loving Memory
