Mary F. Rogers, 64, longtime professor at the University of West Florida, died unexpectedly Friday, February 27,2009. Mary was a loving wife, devoted teacher, good neighbor, beloved sister and daughter and accomplished author of several books. Mary held a wide range of professional and personal interest. While she held a Ph.D. in sociology, her bachelors degree was in chemistry-an indication of Marys range. She was a champion of the underdog and the underprivileged. In 2002, Mary founded the Escambia Sociology Center, which promoted multicultural awareness, literacy enhancement, social justice, and community research. Mary was passionate about teaching. She gave her best to her students and in return, expected the best from them. She was a scholar who continued to pursue new areas of study. She published numerous papers and book chapters on phenomenology, ethnomethodology, multiculturalism, womens studies, and the sociology of literature. She spent a summer studying phenomenology under Maurice Natanson at Yale University. In 2002, her book, Barbie Culture, was published. Mary received her bachelors degree in chemistry from Marycrest College in Davenport, IA. Almost immediately afterward, she switched her studies to sociology. She received a masters degree and Ph.D. from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst. Mary spent four years teaching sociology at Providence College in Providence, RI. In 1976, Mary accepted a position as an associate professor in the Department of Sociology and Anthropology at UWF. Since 1985, as a professor Mary taught courses in feminist theory, social change and reform, social justice and inequality, and qualitative research. From 1984 to 1986, Mary served as acting dean for the College of Arts and Sciences. Prior to that, Mary served two years as chairperson of the Sociology and Anthropology Department. When Marys husband Don became less mobile following surgery five years ago, Mary devoted much of her time to ensuring his comfort and well-being. When time permitted, Mary liked putzing around in the yard. She was an avid reader and used to enjoy brisk walks and lap-swimming. Mary long held an interest in healthy eating and was an accomplished cook. One of her specialties was Italian cuisine, a talent she picked up from her neighbors and friends when she lived in Providence. Mary is survived by her husband Donald Eisman of Pensacola; her mother, Genevieve Rogers of Moline, IL, her brother Donald and his wife Carolyne of Rice Lake, WI; her brother Michael and his wife Barbara of Pensacola; her sister Kathleen of Moline, IL; her brother John of Rock Island, IL; her sister Martha of Pensacola, her brother Patrick of New York, NY; her sister Sharon of Hinsdale, IL; and special friend Peggy Mier. Marys father Donald preceded her in death. A Memorial Service celebrating Marys life will be Tuesday, March 3, 2009 at 2 p.m. at St. Josephs Catholic Church in Pensacola. Following the service, friends are welcome for food and fellowship at the UWF Institute for Innovative Community Learning at 212 Church St. A scholarship is being established in Marys name at UWF. Contributions in Marys name also may be made to Global PEERS, 827 Glenview, Ave., Wauwatosa, WI, 53213. HARPER-MORRIS MEMORIAL CHAPEL is in charge of arrangements.