Elizabeth Anglin, USM Professor Emeritus of French, Dies

Thu, 02/15/2024 - 11:44am | By: David Tisdale

Elizabeth Anglin, a professor emeritus in The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) World Languages Program who channeled her passion for the French language and culture into an illustrious career as a revered educator, died Feb. 8 at her home in Hattiesburg. She was 87.

Anglin earned Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts degrees from the University of Colorado and University of California at Santa Barbara, respectively. She taught French language courses at USM for 37 years, as well as the Diction for Opera Singers course in its School of Music. Her family describes her as “an avid potter, cookie baker extraordinaire, musician, voracious reader, talented knitter, world traveler, and devotee of everything about France.”

“Elizabeth's passion for the French language and culture was impressive,” said Dr. Chris Miles, associate professor in the USM World Languages Program. “Her French language skills and the breadth of her cultural knowledge was admirable. And she absolutely loved Julia Child and talking about French cuisine.

“Even years after retirement, she continued to serve the Southern Miss community, inspiring generations of students to embrace French studies. We lost a USM and Hattiesburg icon with her passing, and she will truly be missed.”

All whose lives she touched are remembering Anglin as a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, teacher, and friend who shared her passions and gifts generously.

Keltoum Rowland, senior lecturer in French for USM’s World Languages Program, experienced those qualities firsthand. She recounted how as a graduate student at USM in 1993, Anglin graciously welcomed her into her home to stay until she could find other accommodations, while also showing her around Hattiesburg and the University’s campus.

“At that time, it was so amazing to me that someone would open their home to a stranger, and make me feel so welcome,” Rowland said. "She became not only a mentor, but a great friend. I’m so grateful I had the opportunity to take classes from her before she retired."

Rowland, who now serves as Honorary Consul of France for Hattiesburg, said there are few in her circle who could match Anglin’s passion for and knowledge of French customs and traditions, noting, “she knew her stuff.” 

“Speaking both as Honorary Consul of France and as a friend, we pay homage to her,” Rowland continued. “She was a true supporter and advocate of France’s culture and language, and we thank her for that. Repose en Paix, Madame Anglin!” 

Anglin was preceded in death by her mother, Sarah Lowe Mee; father, Charles Louis Mee; sister, Sarah Mee Scott; and her partner of 40 years, Dr. William Odom. She is survived by her daughters, Sylvie (Pablo) and Julie; her grandchildren, Ella, Eva, and Jasper; and her brother, Charles Louis Mee, Jr.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in honor of Elizabeth Anglin to The Golden Eagle Teacher Residency Endowment, Fund No. 1517, either online through The University of Southern Mississippi Foundation website, or mail to 118 College Drive, Box 5210, Hattiesburg, Mississippi 39406.