Charles Oliver Frazier

Described by then Secretary of Education Lamar Alexander as a “first class educator,” Charles was a fierce champion of public education and served in the Metro Nashville Public School System for 38 years in a variety of roles. During his last 12 years while serving as Director, Charles transformed Metro Nashville Public Schools by establishing several innovative programs designed to meet the needs of all students regardless of race, economic background, or intellectual ability. A champion of diversity, Charles believed: “If you want to adequately serve a diverse population, you must have diverse programs to adequately meet their needs.” As he retired from service in 1992, Charles noted: “I hope I’m remembered as a strong voice for public education and a champion of all students regardless of their ability or circumstances.” Indeed, he was. Under his watch, the Metro Nashville Public School system was widely regarded as one of the best run urban school systems in the country thanks to Charles’s leadership.

Charles was born in Jefferson City to Jesse Hart Frazier and Willis Frazier. One of three brothers, Charles did his undergraduate work at Carson-Newman College. He later obtained a master’s degree and honorary doctorate.

Education was a family affair in the Frazier household. Charles met his beloved wife of 57-years, Barbara Ann Coling, when he was an assistant principal and she a young and innovative teacher who kept “turning up” in various social situations orchestrated by well-meaning matchmakers. A devoted family man, Charles was a proud father to his beloved son Brian Kent Frazier and wonderful husband, brother, and friend.

Charles enjoyed a long and active retirement with his beloved Barbara and remained engaged in the community by continuing to support the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, the Nashville Zoo, the Rotary Club, and the Tennessee Central Railway Museum. He loved reading, music, visiting with friends and family, and smoking his pipe while watching the birds on his back porch. Always dapper, he was often spotted around town in suspenders and a jaunty cap.

Charles was predeceased by his parents, his brothers James and Roy Frazier, and his son Brian. Charles never fully recovered from the sadness he experienced after the sudden and unexpected passing of his beloved Brian in October 2023. Brian, himself a product of the Metro Nashville Public Schools, studied at Dartmouth, Cambridge, and Yale before serving with distinction as a federal prosecutor for decades. No father was prouder.

Charles is survived by his wife, Barbara, his nephew Miles Frazier, and several friends who will miss his warmth, wit, sparkling blue eyes, bright smile, and warm hugs. Those who knew and loved him will miss him tremendously and take comfort in his memory.