Frank W. Luth, Jr.

Frank W. Luth, Jr., 82, of Medina, Ohio, passed away Tuesday, January 2, 2024. He was born to Frank W. and Mary Theresa (Peckenham) Luth on July 2, 1941, in Providence, Rhode Island. Graduating from Providence College and completing his Doctorate from the University of Connecticut, he had full career in the field of education, retiring from James Madison University, PhD Education. Frank moved from Rhode Island to Vermont in 1969 with his wife, Patricia, and began his career in higher education. Having earned his PhD in Education, he moved his family to Virgina and began a more than 30 year career at James Madison University (JMU) in 1976. Frank started as the Department Head of Special Education, teaching future teachers how to connect and build meaningful relationships with students with special needs; in 1987, he became Acting Dean of the newly formed College of Education for a one year appointment; in the 90's, working for the President of the University, he helped lead state grant and lobbying efforts for the funding of CISAT (College of Integrated Science and Technology); as well as spending time as the NCAA Faculty Representative for Students Athletes, ensuring their positive educational outcomes. After retiring from JMU, he and Pat moved to Ohio. His love for the JMU community was unwavering and a scholarship fund (The Pat and Frank Luth Scholarship Endowment) was established in 2021, through the James Madison University Foundation to benefit single parent students and single parents whose children are in need of financial assistance. He was passionate about his family and friends, especially as they chased their fullest potential, while enjoying his favorite moments fishing with friends, mastering his love of golf and taking long walks at Myrtle Beach with his beloved wife, Pat. Frank is survived by his wife of 60 years, Patricia (Slater) Luth; his children, Frances Johnson (Deborah Kinder) and Frank W. 'Bill' Luth III (Wendy); his grandchildren, Maggie Luth (Jairon Hicks), Frank W. 'Will' Luth IV (April), Vincent Luth, Kelly Wilson (Taylor), Michelle Hamo, Caitlin Underwood (Zane), Gabriel Johnson, Ethan Johnson, Pierre Johnson, Chedner Johnson, Michael DiLorenzo (Orie), Daniel DiLorenzo (Melissa), and William DiLorenzo (Sarah); his 11 great-grandchildren; and his dear family members, Jay Johnson and Becky Luth Williams. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sisters, Clayotha Luth and Jessica Cox. The family will receive friends Saturday, January 13, 2024, from 1 to 3 p.m. in Waite & Son Funeral Home, 765 N. Court St., Medina, immediately followed by a celebration of his life at 3 p.m. Please join afterwards for storytelling, food and refreshments for any who wish to join. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made in Frank's name to James Madison University Foundation (www.JMU.EDU/Foundation ), Foundation Hall, MSC 8501, Harrison St, Harrisonburg, VA 22807, in the name of the Pat and Frank Luth Scholarship Endowment. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.waitefuneralhome.com