Passing of Former Faculty Member, Stuart Meltzer
It is with deep sadness to inform you of the passing of Faculty Emeritus Stuart Meltzer. Stuart's 42-year career of teaching and service to our university and his impact on the lives of generations of students was profoundly impactful.
Stuart was born on June 27, 1940, in the Bronx, New York, and passed away on January 19, 2024, in Chickasha. Stuart joined the faculty at the Oklahoma College of Liberal Arts (now USAO) in 1968 as the chair of the foreign language department. He continued to inspire students until his retirement in 2010.
Through his tenure on campus, Stuart worked under four administrations from President Robert L. Martin to President John Feaver. When Dr. Kayla Hale became president on August 1, 2023, Stuart was one of her first visitors. “Being welcomed back to campus by Stuart was a special moment for me,” she said. “Even though 40 years had passed, his smile and the laugh that I remembered so well made me feel like I had never left. I will miss him.”
In a 2003 article in The Trend, Stuart described his tale as one of great friends and experiences at an ever-changing university. “I have spent more than half of my life here at this school that I love. I have worked with some of the best teachers and students.”
Stuart's influence extended beyond academics. He served as the 4th District Republican Chairman from 1984 to 1996. In addition to his political involvement, Stuart played an active role in the Chickasha Community Theater, contributing to the cultural vibrancy of our community.
A funeral service to celebrate Stuart's life will be held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, January 25, 2024, at the USAO Alumni Chapel. Burial will take place at Fairlawn Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that memorial contributions be made to the USAO Stuart Meltzer Scholarship Fund or the Chickasha Animal Shelter. Your support will help honor Stuart's legacy and continue his commitment to education and community welfare.
As we mourn the loss of a valued member of our academic community, let us also remember the positive impact Stuart Meltzer had on the lives of those he touched. Our thoughts and condolences go out to his family, friends and all who knew him during this difficult time.