Friday, April 05, 2019

The university is saddened to share the news that creative writing professor Phil Furia, a prolific writer, a great teacher, and former chair of many departments at UNCW, passed away on April 3.

David Gessner, professor and chair of the Department of Creative Writing, writes: "It has been a time of tears here in Kenan Hall, which feels empty without Phil’s presence. In particular I have been thinking about, and hearing, his unique voice. It is a voice that has taught, soothed, and inspired many of us over the years and a voice known far beyond these walls, from interviews with Terry Gross and Larry King to several PBS specials to Wilmington’s own, 'The Great American Song Book,' which Phil hosted on WHQR. It is a voice we will never forget."

Read his full tribute to Dr. Furia here. 

The university's thoughts and prayers are with Dr. Furia's family and friends at this time. Two memorial services are planned later in the year.