Dr. Francine L. Broadous Oputa, (1953 - 2023) - ForeverMissed.com Online Memorials

If I can help somebody, as I pass along, Then my living shall not be in vain.

70 years old
Born on May 31, 1953
Passed away on September 14, 2023

Dear Friends and Family,

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved wife, mother, and matriarch. Our hearts are broken, but we are determined to celebrate her beautiful life. Please join us in honoring her memory. Please join us in celebrating her life.

We invite you to join us for the following events on September 28th & 29th:

Dr. Francine's Celebration of Life
Date: Thursday, September 28, 2023
Time: 2 pm, PDT
The color scheme for the services will be any combination of purple, black, white and/or traditional African Attire in any colors
Location: Family Community Church
Address: 2434 E Nees Ave, Fresno, CA 93720

A Praise Party for Dr. Francine - Memorial Tribute Concert
Date: Friday, September 29, 2023
Time: 5 pm, PDT
Dinner and Open Tributes directly to follow
Location: California State University, Fresno - Resnick Student Union - Ruiz Ballroom
Address: 5244 N. Jackson Ave., Fresno, CA 93740

Dinner & Open Tributes
Date: Friday, September 29, 2023
Time: 7 pm, PDT
Join us for a meal and time to share memories and continue to pay tribute.
Location: California State University, Fresno - Resnick Student Union - Ruiz Ballroom
Address: 5244 N. Jackson Ave., Fresno, CA 93740

Note: Parking at Fresno State is “relaxed” in P31 and P30 during the memorial events. No permit is needed. These lots are adjacent to the Resnick Student Union. https://maps.fresnostate.edu/?id=1923#!ce/53230?ct...

Streaming/Virtual Information:
Thursday’s Service -
https://www.youtube.com/live/zGfIVFiB1-I?si=_QyWj_Ujvi0JHoDa

Friday’s Concert -
https://www.youtube.com/live/QlkTU0pKXIY?si=osNEvgOFvZnbW5xd

Traveling to Fresno? Here are some Tips:

Flights: American Airlines and Southwest Airlines fly easily into Fresno
Hotels: We have a discounted block of rooms reserved at the Homewood Suites in Fresno. The discount includes free parking and expires on Monday. Instructions on how to redeem this discount are as follows:

“Guests may go to www.fresno.homewoodsuites.com and must enter nights between Wednesday 9/27 and Saturday 9/28, if they need something Tuesday or Sunday night, it won’t work. After entering dates, then select special rates, and enter the Group Code: “OCL” and hit done. We kindly ask for a 48 hour cancellation to these reservations.”: https://www.hilton.com/en/attend-my-event/oputafam...

We would be truly grateful if you could upload photos and videos of you with Dr. Francine to this website, so we can cherish and gather as many precious memories as possible.
We plan to put all service details (date, time, location, etc.) on this website as soon as we have them. Thank you for your patience.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to continue her legacy of faith, education and service in the Fresno community click here to donate to Dr. Francine's Legacy

With Love and Gratitude,
The Oputa Family

p.s. Please, continue to check this website for updates. We promise to post all the details as soon as we've confirmed them.

Tributes

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September 18, 2023

With deepest sympathy to the entire Dr. Francine Oputa family. It was a blessing to had known someone with such a loving spirit with all she came in contact with. God is rejoicing in Heaven that another one of his vessels answered his call. Continuance prayer for her husband, children and all whom knew her and loved her dearly... Rest in Paradise, Dr. Francine Oputa. ✌️ ❤️ ✝️

September 17, 2023

Extending Loving-kindness, Peace, and Comfort to the Oputa Family. Dr. Francine Oputa truly loved humanity with all its flaws, strengths, beauty, and complexities. Experiencing her Grace and non-judgmentalness serves as my life's reminder to never take our personal freedom for granted, and that every person upon this earth has a purpose. We Love You Francine. I Love You and Thank you for standing when others could/did not. In Peace-Kassandre Clayton-Johnson & Willie Johnson Jr.

September 17, 2023

To Dr. Francine,

You gave us so much of yourself, and in doing so, you showed us the best version of ourselves.

Thank you for the life lessons, the storytelling, the optimism, and the courage.

Thank you for truth, light, and the hope to lead a life of virtue and honor and love.

Saúl, Mariana, Arion, & Leo

September 17, 2023

Such a beautiful soul and mentor Francine Oputa was to me. I had the pleasure of working with for in Fresno at CSATT for a few years back in the 80s. One of MANY memories that remains with me is when we went to a women's retreat and I was pregnant with my oldest daughter, Danielle, and I was struggling with morning sickness terribly that weekend. Francine was my "mommy" that weekend and made sure I was taken care of and she had the ladies pray over me and my daughter... I will never forget that weekend.... and Francine, I will never forget you.... rest in heavenly peace, my sweet friend. I will pray for your husband and your beautiful children during this most difficult time.

September 17, 2023

Dr. Francine found a way to do that most difficult thing—modeling the way, and leading others to recognize for themselves the changes they can create in the world, and in their own lives/characters/assumptions. She was wise, generous, brilliant, a trusted leader, colleague, and friend. I am so grateful to have known and worked with her. Especially, it was always a joy to hear her speak of her three children, and the unbounded pride she had in what you all have accomplished, and the amazing humans you’ve become. Rest in peace, dear one.

September 17, 2023

She was more than just a mentor and friend, she literally became my life line at one of the lowest and darkest times in my life. She spoke light to my darkness and peace within my storm. She assumed the role of the othermother and helped my own natural mother pull me back from the depths of despair. I came to her broken in pieces and she helped put me back together again. I wouldn’t have made it through my undergrad without her. She saw me in grief but thank God we celebrated victories and triumph together as well. That cloud of witnesses keeps growing with the ones I love. Sending love and prayer to her beautiful daughters and wonderful husband. My life will forever be richer because of this beautiful queen.

September 17, 2023

I can’t remember the day we meet,because I was a child but I’m forever grateful to have known you and be taught many lessons by you, you were my Sunday school teacher and all the stories I know about god are because of you and I enjoyed hearing you sing every Sunday I attended church, you were cherished and will be missed so much mrs.Oputa I know you are rejoicing in gods kingdom

September 17, 2023

Such a beautiful soul. Anyone who came in contact with her, left a better individual for it. Her wisdom and grace were felt, even without her having to say a word. A wonderful woman, through and through. She will be greatly missed. My condolences to her husband and family, as well as all those who had the great opportunity to know her.

September 17, 2023

May her name and memory forever be a blessing. I and my sister are sending positive vibes, hugs and prayers to the family, friends and facility. She was a bundle of life.

September 17, 2023

I am so saddened by your passing, dear Francine. You were a guiding light and ray of hope for every person you encountered. Your incredibly positive impact on our communities is immeasurable. Thank you forever for you peace, your love, your support, your kindness. We will all live in them for all our lives. I love you. Sincere condolences to Henry and all your family

September 17, 2023

Dr Francine, we first met in Fresno State in 1996 when you presented your equality workshop with Dr Doyle class. over the years we became great friends and colleagues as we worked in our doctorates and the work you did at the women's center and beyond we last spoke at the senior care symposium in may he shared your life story which was awesome and your words of wisdom for elders attending the May celebration your memory in life legacy will live on through your family, your friends, your colleagues, and those who have met you throughout your life journey you're now our guardian angel watching over the world that you help change for so many years blessings my friend, mentor, collie, and community advocate blessings Dr Bill

September 17, 2023

May her memory be a blessing. I served with Francine on many university committees. She was a wise woman. I considered her a friend, a mentor, and an inspiration. Whenever she gave a performance of stories I was there. I will miss her. She is someone who will be missed by many and remembered by many.

September 17, 2023

This heartbreaking. My time at Fresno State was greatly enhanced because of Dr. Oputa. She always had a story, book or word of encouragement each time I visited her office. I was a better student because of her generosity, wisdom and kindness. She truly will be missed- Dalitso

September 17, 2023

Francine was such a safe place when times were challenging as Billy Walker wrote I thought the exact same thing before I read his tribute, that is why I repeating it. Pastor Henry and family Jackie and I are so sorry for your loss. Know we will be keeping you in our prayers.

September 17, 2023

I am deeply saddened to hear about Francine’s passing. I had the privilege to work with her at Fresno State. I admired her drive and advocacy to create a safe haven of acceptance, inclusion and kindness on our campus for ALL! My condolences to her family during their time of sorrow

September 17, 2023

My heart is heavy. Francine was such a safe place when times were challenging. A voice of reason and love. She will be truly missed.

September 17, 2023

So sad to hear this news. Her work at Fresno State and in the community has been important and touched many lives.

September 17, 2023

Dr. Oputa was an inspiration to every Black women she ever came in contact with. She exuded elegance and gave such eloquent ambiance when ever she walked in a room. She taught me the necessity of acknowledging who I was going to be and to take courage in being a Strong Black Woman!! She will forever be a shinning light in my memories, but more importantly now she’s in the memory of Jehovah‍♀️

September 17, 2023

Francine was a special light in our city. Love, peace, acceptance, empathy, understanding and gratitude emanated from her. What originated in her heart was cared for and amplified by her family. Henry, my heartfelt condolences to you and your family and may God have His hand on you all during this time.

September 17, 2023

Dr Oputa was an amazing force of change and positivity. She left a legacy of good here at Fresno State and in the Central Valley. A wonderful mentor and friend. I feel very fortunate to have known her and loved her. So heartbroken over this. Sending so much love to Dr Oputa’s family.

September 17, 2023

I am completely devastated and heart broken from this sudden news. Dr Oputa was a surrogate mother to me while I was in college. She taught me I was a woman of virtue, exposed me to things I was one un aware of and loved me. I will forever cherish our memories. I just can't believe this news. My sincerest condolences to her family.

September 16, 2023

I’d like to leave a poem in memory of Dr. Oputa, one many of us had the honor of hearing her recite many times. Thank you for leavening an everlasting impact on this community you Phenomenal Woman.

“Pretty women wonder where my secret lies.
I’m not cute or built to suit a fashion model’s size
But when I start to tell them,
They think I’m telling lies.
I say,
It’s in the reach of my arms,
The span of my hips,
The stride of my step,
The curl of my lips.
I’m a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That’s me.

I walk into a room
Just as cool as you please,
And to a man,
The fellows stand or
Fall down on their knees.
Then they swarm around me,
A hive of honey bees.
I say,
It’s the fire in my eyes,
And the flash of my teeth,
The swing in my waist,
And the joy in my feet.
I’m a woman
Phenomenally.

Phenomenal woman,
That’s me.

Men themselves have wondered
What they see in me.
They try so much
But they can’t touch
My inner mystery.
When I try to show them,
They say they still can’t see.
I say,
It’s in the arch of my back,
The sun of my smile,
The ride of my breasts,
The grace of my style.
I’m a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That’s me.

Now you understand
Just why my head’s not bowed.
I don’t shout or jump about
Or have to talk real loud.
When you see me passing,
It ought to make you proud.
I say,
It’s in the click of my heels,
The bend of my hair,
the palm of my hand,
The need for my care.
’Cause I’m a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That’s me.”

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Recent Tributes

October 3, 2023

This morning, i was surprised with the notice of Francine’s death. Perhaps, because I was traveling outside of USA during September, i didn’t hear about it.
Although i didn’t have daily connection with Francine, during these last couple decades, i was exposed to her grace and contagious enjoyment for life each time i connect with her. She wasn’t just a nice person. She was a leader with the ability to impact those around her as well as our Commuity. I am sad to hear about her death. She will be missed but her contribution will be celebrate for years to come. THANK YOU Francine.

September 30, 2023

This woman Changed my perspective on life, at the young age of 15. She created a mentorship for teen girls called “Images” and she would meet with us each month for lunch.
She is the is the reason I wrote myself into a college,trade schools and jobs!I’ve even created my own an after programs for teen girls throughout the years. I remember,when She decided that it wasn’t too late to go back to school for herself, Sharing that decision with us ( her teenage mentees) was a power shift for all of us, even though we didn’t recognized it at the time! Mrs, Oputa was one of my First mentors and is and was truly a Monarch of our time! Oh,and I’ll never forget, that she introduced me to African American Poetry and literature. I could go on and on but I’ll leave off with this one simple thing Dr. Francine L. Broadous Oputa taught me, she is the reason that the Phrase “ phenomenal woman that’s me!” Lives on forever in my head. Rest well

September 29, 2023

Dr. Oputa was a beautiful soul. She helped us talk about difficult subjects. She made us think more deeply about our feelings and behaviors. She was well-loved on campus. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to learn from her and be in her presence.

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Her Life

Dr. Francine L. Broadous Oputa: A Life of Faith, Education, and Community Service

September 23, 2023

"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).

Dr. Francine Oputa - A Life Well Lived

September 29, 2023

Dr. Oputa was a great woman of God, wife, mother, educator, performer, advocate, mentor, friend, and an inspiration to many. Dr. Oputa has been an integral part of my life since I was young, there are so many wonderful memories I have of her. From her story times (Why Do Mosquitos Buzz in our Ear?) Dance routines, poems, chants and games at Saturday Cultural School, to my teenage years (summer pool parties, outings, church, my baptism) to my college years at Fresno State- being able to stop by her office at any time & her valuable advice to me, Sistah to Sistah meetings and graduation, to giving the Bride's speech at my wedding and the naming ceremonies of my children, to teaching my children as well in Saturday Cultural School. There are too many memories to name. Mrs. Oputa had an effortless way of being present and impactful in my life during all my major milestones. She always had a bright smile, and a warm hug and listened intently to what you had to say. As I reflect on her life, I am in awe of what she accomplished in her life's journey. She used all her gifts and did not allow them to go to waste. I am glad to have known her. To Reverend Dr. Henry I. Oputa, Chuyendu, IfeChudeni, Nwachukwu, and the entire family, I express my heartfelt condolences on the loss of the great, incomparable woman - Dr. Francine L. Oputa. Indeed, her life served as an inspiration for others to use their gifts and make a meaningful impact on the world. May her beautiful soul rest in peace, and may her family find solace in the beautiful memories she left behind. Dr. Oputa's legacy will live on through the positive influence she had on those she touched. Remember, weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning! May the peace of our Lord continue to be with us all in Jesus' name. Amen.
With Love,
Mrs. Muriah Ezinne Okwelogu-Olumeko

The Amazing Francine!!!

September 27, 2023

I’ve delayed writing this post, because posting makes the sudden death of my dear friend, Francine, all the more real. There’s not much more that I can add to all of the wonderful things that her friends and family have posted already, so I will just say thank You Lord for giving me such an amazing, godly, wise, joyful, encouraging, Spirit filled woman as Francine.

Thank You Lord, that I got to give her her roses when we spent time together in July.

She alluded to the fact that she was put off because someone made a comment to her best friend, Della that went something like this… YOU are Francine’s best friend? I asked Francine, “What did you hear? She said she heard that her best friend was being put down, and that the person thought Della wasn’t worthy of being her best friend.

I sat quietly for a few seconds looking at her, and then said, you don’t know huh? She said, know what? I said, “How amazing and accomplished you are!” I explained that I didn’t hear that the person was downing Della, but she was surprised that Della got to be best friends with amazing Francine!!!! She thought about it, processing what I said, and we went on laughing, talking and catching up as always. Francine called me the following day, as I was in the middle of several things, but I answered her call. She thanked me for my perspective regarding the comment made to Della, and stated that someone in a meeting she had that morning shared similar sentiments. I told her that I loved her, and she said she loved me. And that was our last conversation. I’m so glad I answered the phone and I God to express how amazing she was.

Like so many others, I am heartbroken AND God is still good!! I will miss her, AND I will see her again. I hate that she died suddenly, AND all things will work together for the good of her family, friends, church, community and God’s glory. Weeping may endure for the night, AND joy will come one morning.

Thank You Jesus that I GOT to be friends with the amazing Francine. Her imprint will be on my heart and soul forever. I’ll see you in glory my sweet friend.

In Memory

September 24, 2023

Dr. Oputa was one of my first supervisors at Fresno State when I was a budding undergraduate student at Fresno State. As a first-generation college student, I needed a job on campus that would allow me to do community-oriented work more conveniently and focus on my studies. I reached out to Dr. Oputa, and she gave me a job at the Cross Culture and Gender Center. My academic trajectory has not been the same since. I often reflect on these little taken-for-granted opportunities that can change the course of a person's career and life when I look at how far I have come. More importantly, it is the generous people, like Dr. Oputa, that you meet along the way that shape you as well. Despite our differences, this is how I will ultimately remember Dr. Oputa.

Thank you,
Prof. Vanna Nauk

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