Dr. Francisco B. Fernandes (“Frank”) passed away peacefully on October 6, 2017. He was 81. 

Dr. Fernandes was born in Port of Spain, Trinidad and immigrated to the United States in 1952. He graduated from Howard University in 1960 with a B.S. in Chemistry and from Howard University College of Medicine in 1964. During his early training, Dr. Fernandes served in Howard University’s historic Freedmen’s Hospital as a resident physician. In 1973 he completed his residency in ophthalmology with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Columbia University at Harlem Hospital Center. Dr. Fernandes served in the U.S. Army, retiring with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel (Reserves). 

Dr. Fernandes is survived by his four children (Tina Fernandes Botts, Julie Fernandes, Damon Fernandes, and Geoffrey Fernandes), a step-daughter (Donna Parker), seven grandchildren, two sisters (Rose Middleton and Yvette Khan) and a number of nieces, nephews, close relatives, and old friends.