Frederick W. Clothey

Dr. Frederick W. Clothey

(February 29, 1936-May 18, 2025)

Survived by Ann, devoted wife of 63 years, occasionally frustrating but always loving children Phillip, Rebecca, Frederick M., Sharmali, and Fathima, daughters-in-law Gaby and Wendy, grandchildren Ari, Elijah, Anika, and Kyle, and numerous nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by sisters Dorothy Gransee, and Phyllis Roberson.

Fred W. had a brilliant mind and very successful academic career, having attended Kodaikanal International School (class of 1954), Aurora University for a B.A. and B.Th., Naperville Seminary for a B.Div, and the University of Chicago for an M.A. and P.h.D, leading to a career dedicated to the history of religions. He taught in the Department of Religious Studies at the University of Pittsburgh until his retirement as Professor Emeritus. He was the recipient of several awards, such as Distinguished Asianist from the Mid-Atlantic Region Association for Asian Studies, and four Fulbright scholarships. He wrote numerous books and scholarly articles and produced seven documentaries.

Despite this success, he remained a humble, honest, practical man with a gentle spirit, and for 80 of his 89 years, he was an unwavering Red Sox fan. Having spent decades living in India and travelling extensively influenced his worldview. His vision for the world was for everyone to be understood and to get along regardless of religious background, cultural background, or educational background. Given his practical nature, he instilled in us to take our corner, the one we could change, and make it the best corner possible.

It’s exactly the example he set with his own corner, impacting so many people he met, taught, and loved. He will forever be missed, but our grief will never surpass the influence he had on those of us who knew him.

A Memorial Service to celebrate Fred W’s life will be held on June 14th at 11:30 am EDT at East Liberty Presbyterian Church, Pittsburgh, PA, Penn Avenue.

In lieu of flowers, consider having a tree planted in his memory through the Arbor Day Foundation: https://shop.arborday.org/commemorative-trees-for-others. Arrangements by John A. Freyvogel Sons, Inc. (freyvogelfuneralhome.com)

To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Frederick W. Clothey, please visit our Tree Store.