At 90 years old, Mary Frances Early, the woman who helped open the doors of the University of Georgia to generations of students. now needs a simple tool that allows her to keep reading, learning, and living independently.
On June 14, Mary Frances will celebrate her 90th birthday. More than six decades ago, in 1962, she quietly made history as the first African American to graduate from the University of Georgia. Her courage helped transform access to education across the South and opened opportunities for countless students who followed.
Yet those who know her best would say that her greatest legacy is not simply that historic milestone. Mary Frances spent her career as an educator, shaping the lives of students and strengthening music education across Georgia. Like so many teachers, she devoted her life to serving others and helping young people discover their potential.
Today, Mary Frances faces a challenge that many encounter later in life. Her eyesight has diminished significantly. Determined to remain independent and engaged with the world around her, she relies on specialized assistive technology that allows her to read and stay connected.
Recently she had to purchase a DaVinci OCR reading device through the Center for the Visually Impaired at a cost of $6,000. This device scans printed materials and reads them aloud, enabling her to continue reading correspondence, books, and important documents on her own.
Because Mary Frances spent her career in public education, her retirement income is modest. Devices like the DaVinci OCR are essential for maintaining independence, but they are also expensive.
For her 90th birthday, friends and admirers hope to come together to raise at least $6,000 to cover the cost of the device. If we exceed that goal, every dollar raised will go directly to Mary Frances to support her independence and ongoing needs.
Mary Frances Early spent a lifetime opening doors for others. This birthday offers all of us the opportunity to give something back to someone whose courage, humility, and service have meant so much to so many.
Suggested Ways to Give
$25
A birthday gift in honor of Mary Frances
$90
Celebrate her 90th birthday
$250
Support assistive technology that protects independence
$1,000
Help ensure continued access to reading and communication
Any gift of any amount is deeply appreciated.
If Mary Frances Early’s life and legacy have inspired you, we invite you to be part of this birthday gift. Your support will help ensure she can continue reading, learning, and living independently.
As we celebrate her 90th birthday on June 14, this is a meaningful way to honor a woman whose courage and lifelong service opened doors for generations.
Thank you for helping us celebrate Mary Frances Early and for giving back to someone who has given so much.