Frank McCourt, 19 August 1930 - 19 July 2009
There is a Buddhist philosophy that suggests that an individual needs great faith, great doubt, and perseverance. Frank McCourt had all three. He said once that his one virtue was doggedness: “Not as glamorous as ambition or talent or intellect or charm, but still it was the one thing that got me through the days and nights.” To me, he had intellect and charm and was, if not glamorous, a most handsome, gentle man.
Over my desk at home are two photographs of people who inspire me. One is of my Drama professor in college, Fletcher Collins Jr., who died a few years ago at 98, and the other, is of Frank McCourt – both men eloquent and plain spoken, humble, kind, funny, wise, and both great teachers. Their faces greet me every day as I go to teach, remembering Frank’s words “Find out what you love and do it.” He certainly did.
- Excerpt from Davyne's tribute to Frank
Frank McCourt at LCWP event, December 2006
Ann Leary's tribute to Frank
Some words about Frank from the LCWP audience community:
| "I am thankful that I had the opportunity to meet Mr. McCourt at one of UConn's presentations. I truly enjoyed listening to him speak not only about his book, but about his wonderful life journey after coming to America. My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends." |
"To me, Teacher Man says it all. That to me is what he was and always will be." |
| "I had the good fortune to attend a Memoir Class at Torrington's UConn Campus, where Mr. McCourt was interviewed. Though impressed with his writing, his good looks, and his Irish charm, I was totally intrigued with his impish humor and his gentle character. And, I am thrilled and honored to be in possession of one of his books, which he so graciously and joyfully autographed for me." |
"Frank McCourt will be a great loss - he was a great storyteller, writer and educator." |
| I was saddened to awake to the news this morning of the passing of the great Frank McCourt. I am so glad that we got to experience him many time at the LCWP. May he rest in peace. |
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I’m very sorry that you’ve lost such a friend Davyne. I feel so fortunate to have brushed with him briefly. Your work to bring people and creativity together seems more important now than ever. |
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I am so sorry to hear it. We will all miss him, especially you who knew him so well. |
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| I was saddened to hear the news of Frank McCourt's passing on the news. You have found a wonderful way to honor him and his work by collecting the account of your discussions and preserving it for those who come after and did not have the privilege to know him personally. I hope you find some comfort in this important work. |
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Thank goodness he had good years after a painful childhood. What a great teacher of life lessons. Thank you for making him accessible to all of us, and for all else that you do to keep good writing and literature alive. |
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| So sad to learn of Frank's passing. His death must touch you deeply. What a truly extraordinary spirit. He lived his life brilliantly. There can't be more to ask than that. He was a true example of a completely wonderful guy....inside and out. I know he supported your cause with all his heart. |
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| "I had the honor and pleasure of seeing Frank McCourt interviewed three times at the Torrington campus.
The first time I came up to see him, I got information on the BGS program and enrolled shortly thereafter. I have since graduated from UCONN, so, you could say that Frank McCourt changed my life!" |
Frank McCourt in the LCWP office, April 30th, 2008
The Collection comprises over 1,300 signed and unsigned editions of books by Litchfield County writers. Many are first editions. We are continually adding to the collection by our research of new authors and new books. The collection is used regularly for creating courses as well as developing lecture series.
We have a database of all authors and their works in the collection. If you would like to view the collection, please call, email or write to make an appointment.
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