Rachel Farr Fitch

Rachel Farr Fitch, PhD, passed away on July 26, 2013. Predeceased by her loving husband of 54 years, Coy Dean Fitch, MD. Beloved Mother of Julia (Robert) Brown of Pittsburgh, Pa. and Jaquelyn (James) Fleckenstein, M.D. of St. Louis, Mo. Cherished Grandmother of Meredith Rachel Brown, Carol Yvonne Brown, Margaret Anne Fleckenstein and Kathryn Rose Fleckenstein. Daughter of the late Allen Edward Farr and the late Rosie Leola Jones Farr. Sister of Alice Virginia Farr (Bob) Parsons of Benton, Ark., the late Troy Farr, and the late Alonzo Farr. Dr. Fitch‘s most lasting impacts were in the areas of health care reform and public health advocacy. She began her career as a clinical nurse but soon redefined her purpose to encompass public health reform through her efforts to reduce infant mortality as a health consultant for the City of St. Louis. As the Chair of the Missouri Consumer Health Care Watch from 1996-2002, Dr. Fitch protected the interests of over a million Missourians. Her extensive service as a Director of the Missouri League of Women Voters (1986- 2013) resulted in significant changes in the health care system to improve access for the poor and vulnerable populations. She was the recipient of many awards including the inaugural League of Women Voters "Rachel Farr Fitch, PhD Award for Excellence" as well as the Nurse of the Year by the Missouri Nurses Association, Third District and the Fleur-de-lis Award for volunteer community service by St. Louis University School of Medicine Women's Club. Dr. Fitch was a person of boundless energy and determination. Despite extended serious illnesses, she remained optimistic and continued to pursue her many interests and avocations. She and her husband spent many years restoring their Central West End home to historical accuracy. Dr. Fitch was an avid gardener, often seen meticulously caring for her extensive Hosta collection. She was an expert seamstress, gourmet cook, and the consummate hostess. She was committed to the arts in St. Louis and eagerly awaited each opportunity to support and attend the St. Louis Symphony, the Repertory Theater, and the Muny Opera. Dr. Fitch continued to be active in many groups in recent years, most notably the Woman's Club of St. Louis University School of Medicine and the League of Women Voters. She treasured her friendships through these and other groups. Dr. Fitch was born in Deering, Mo. and raised in McRae, Ark. She earned a Diploma in Nursing from St. Vincent School of Nursing in Little Rock, Ark. She returned to school after the birth of her daughters to earn a BS and a MS in Nursing from St. Louis University. She completed her education with a PhD in Public Policy Analysis and Administration from St. Louis University. A Memorial service will be held at 4 p.m. on August 20 at Grace United Methodist Church, 6199 Waterman Boulevard, St. Louis, Mo. 63112, followed by a reception. Burial will be private at Bellefontaine Cemetery. In lieu of flowers Memorials may be made to the Drs. Coy D. and Rachel F. Fitch Lectureship; c/o St. Louis University, Medical Development, 3545 Lafayette Avenue, Salus 602, St. Louis, Mo. 63104 or the charity of your choice. Online condolences at AmbrusterChapel.com.