In the quiet Memphis neighborhood of East Memphis, a distinguished academic's life came to a sorrowful end. Ralph Faudree, a 75-year-old male, was discovered in the backyard of his Normandy home on the evening of Tuesday, January 13, 2015. Memphis Police Department officers responded to a call and found Faudree with what was determined to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound. He was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Faudree was a celebrated and world-renowned mathematician who had been a significant figure at the University of Memphis for over four decades. His long and impactful career at the university included roles as a professor, department chair, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, Interim President, and Provost. His contributions to the field of mathematics, particularly in graph theory, earned him international recognition, including the prestigious Euler Medal in 2005.
Those who knew him described a man dedicated to his work and his university, but also a person with a variety of interests including biking, photography, and tennis. In the years leading up to his death, he had been ill and had a bout with cancer. His passing was a shock to the university community, where he was remembered as a mentor, colleague, and friend who left behind a remarkable legacy. He was survived by his wife, two daughters, and four grandchildren. There is no indication of any arrests or suspects in relation to his death.
