"If I can help somebody, then my living will not be in vain" – the powerful lyrics of Mahalia Jackson's song were not just words, but the anthem that echoed through the life of Dr. Francine L. Broadous Oputa. In the heart of Fresno, California, this cherished pillar of our community transitioned to her heavenly home on September 14, 2023, at the age of 70. Born on May 31, 1953, in San Fernando, CA, her life story unfolded like a tapestry of faith, education, and unwavering dedication to her community.
Education:
Her academic journey began in the California public school system, but her quest for knowledge knew no bounds. She graduated from San Fernando High School and set her sights on higher education. Long Beach State, Stanislaus State, UC Davis, and Fresno State were all stations on her remarkable journey. At the culmination of her educational pilgrimage, she emerged with a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership. Dr. Oputa's commitment to learning was an inspiration, not just within the classroom but throughout her community, where she kindled the flames of aspiration in countless young hearts.
Family and Community:In the autumn of 1976, the chapters of her life converged at Stanislaus State in Turlock, CA, where she crossed paths with Henry Ifeanyi-Chukwu Oputa. Their love story unfolded, and on August 20, 1977, they began a 46-year-long adventure as husband and wife. In the fall of 1979, they embarked on a new journey to Fresno, enrolling in graduate studies. Their union bore three children, Chunyendu (CeCe), I Adeficha, and Nwachukwu.
Their faith led them to the Hopewell Missionary Baptist Church and ultimately inspired the founding of The Way Ministries John…14:6 in November 1989. March 1991 marked the establishment of the Saturday Cultural School, a testament to their unwavering commitment to the community. A “When I think of Home” mural stands as a lasting tribute to Dr. Francine and Rev./Dr. Henry's extensive community service in West Fresno.
In 2007, Dr. Francine and Rev./Dr. Henry were commissioned at Family Community Church Fresno, California by Rev./Dr. Chester McGensy to start The Way Christian Fellowship (TWCF) Fresno, California — an extension of The Way Ministries…John 14:6. Remarkably, while raising three children, Dr. Francine effectively balanced her roles as a devoted mother, a cornerstone of her church, and a passionate advocate for bringing Black and African culture into local schools. Her vision was not confined to her own children; she championed quality education for all.
Career:
Dr. Francine's career spanned 30 impactful years at California State University, Fresno, where she held the esteemed position of Director of the Cross Cultural and Gender Center (CCGC). While directing the CCGC, she strived to ensure all members of the Fresno State community had a place of belonging by creating specific branches of the Center focusing on African American, American Indian, Asian/Pacific Islander, Gender, Latino/a/x, and LGBTQ+ programs and services respectively. Her dedication to diversity, cultural competency, and support for students, faculty, and staff was evident through her tireless efforts and the programs she championed, including the Central Valley Cultural Heritage Institute and the Women's Resource Center.
After retiring from the university in 2020, Dr. Francine went on to open her own business. Drawing from her decades of experience in performing, inspirational speaking, and diversity, equity, and inclusion training, Dr. Francine founded Oputa & Associates, a successful consulting firm with a nationwide reach, where she served as CEO until her passing.
Legacy:
Dr. Francine L. Broadous Oputa's life exemplified the values of faith, education, and community service. Her legacy will continue to inspire generations, a testament to the transformative power of a life well-lived. Her contributions to her community, her unwavering commitment to education, and her boundless faith will forever be etched in our hearts.
Dr. Francine was preceded in death by her parents, Pastor/Dr. Hillery Talbert and Mother Rosa Lee (Cox-Thompson) Broadous, as well as six siblings, Laurence Broadous, Alicia Broadous Duncan, William T. Broadous, M. Cecelia Broadous, Furaha Broadous, Arthur Lee Broadous. She is survived by five siblings, Pamela Broadous, Zedar Broadous, Marie Neloms, Abdullah Broadous, her husband Rev./Dr. Henry Ifeanyi-Chukwu Oputa, and her three children– Chunyendu “CeCe” N. Oputa, I Adeficha Oputa, and Nwachukwu N. Oputa.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to continue Dr. Oputa's legacy of faith, education, and service in the Fresno community. Contributions can be made through the following link:
Donation Link (
https://secure.myvanco.com/YGPG/campaign/C-YJ9P) .
For further information and funeral arrangements, please visit
Funeral Details (
https://www.forevermissed.com/francineoputa/about).
