Frances Ann Underhill

Dr. Frances Ann Underhill, 88, of Kalamazoo, MI died May 2, 2017, secure in the love of her family and friends. She is survived by her dear children and their spouses: Alexandra U. and Dr. William A. Dailey of Austin, Texas; The Honorable Stefan R. and Mary Pat Underhill of Fairfield, Connecticut; Timothy P. and Kristen Underhill of Tulsa, Oklahoma; and David A. and Joy Underhill of Monument, Colorado. She also leaves nine grandchildren of whom she was deeply proud: Anne Dailey; Mariah, Mark, Devin, and Kerry Underhill; Lauren Day and Madison Underhill; and Michael and Megan Underhill. She is also survived by two wonderful siblings and a sister-in-law: Martha Garber of Beulah, Michigan, and John and Marilyn Doty of Battle Creek. Dr. Underhill was born in Battle Creek. She received her bachelor's and master's degrees from the University of Michigan. After working some years for the CIA in Washington, D.C., she continued her education at Indiana University, which awarded her a Ph.D. in history. The family, including her deceased husband Richard, moved to Richmond, Virginia, where she taught in the History Department at the University of Richmond for 28 years. She was beloved by students at the University, which honored her with its annual Distinguished Educator award on three occasions. She published numerous reviews, papers, and one book, For Her Good Estate: The Life of Elizabeth de Burgh, a biography of the Fourteenth Century noblewoman who founded Clare College, at Cambridge University. While in Richmond, she taught English as a second language, volunteered with the Micah program at Redd Elementary School, and served on the vestry at St. Michael's Episcopal Church. Frances spent her final years at Friendship Village in Kalamazoo. There she found dear friends, caring staff, and much happiness. She enjoyed working on the Friendship Village newsletter and in the library, attending concerts, knitting baby caps, and gathering with friends for meals, cards, and political discussions. Frances found a spiritual home at St. Martin of Tours Episcopal Church. Funeral services will be held at St. Martin of Tours on Sunday, May 21st at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, friends may wish to donate to Women for Women International at womenforwomen.org or The Wilderness Society at Wilderness.org.