Frank McCourt, a beloved author and teacher, passed away on July 19, 2009 at the age of 78. Born in Brooklyn, New York to Irish immigrant parents, Frank was the oldest of four siblings. Frank spent his early life in Ireland before returning to the United States in 1949, prior to completing his studies at NYU and UCLA. He began his career as a teacher. Frank's wise and wit-filled books made him a much loved and respected figure in the world of literature. His memoir, Angela's Ashes, earned him the Pulitzer Prize for Autobiography in 1997. The book was later adapted into a feature film. In 2006, Frank was honored with the National Book Critics Circle Award for Teachers: A Memoir. Frank was an inspirational and encouraging teacher. He is remembered as a humble and cheerful individual whose stories brought laughter and reflected a strong sense of optimism and self-deprecating humor. Frank will be deeply missed by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing and loving him. May he rest in peace.