By: Amelia Frazier Theobald • Photos Provided
This month, I had the privilege of standing at the podium at Frazier Rehab to commemorate its 70th anniversary and honor my great-grandmother, Amelia Brown Frazier. As I prepared for my speech, a small hiccup occurred—my usually wonderful and helpful husband accidentally grabbed the printout too early, leaving me without the first page of my speech.
Nervous and delivering only my second-ever public speech, I took a deep breath and reflected on the tour the Frazier Rehab staff had given me during my visit. My mother’s stories about her grandmother, Amelia, came rushing back, and at that moment, I chose to speak from the heart.
When I was done, I let everyone know that if they wanted to learn more about her, I would take a moment this month to write for those who would like to get to know her better. This is for you.
A woman who was in a car crash started one of the U.S.’s best rehabilitation Hospitals, and her name was Amelia Brown Frazier.
Amelia Brown Frazier’s name is synonymous with resilience, philanthropy, and a tireless commitment to the community. As we celebrate the 70th anniversary of Frazier Rehab and the 50th anniversary of the Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Program, it is fitting to reflect on this extraordinary woman’s remarkable life and enduring legacy.
Born in 1908 as the middle child of George Garvin Brown II and his wife, Amelia was a beacon of brilliance from an early age. After graduating high school at just 15 years old, she embarked on lifelong learning and cultural immersion, mastering seven languages, including French, Italian, German, Mandarin, and English. Her travels took her to France and Italy, where she honed her language skills and experienced the rich cultures of Europe before the age of 18. Amelia had a striking presence, standing over six feet tall with curly red hair and an air of impeccable poise. Yet, her stance had a hint of awkwardness as she often tried to downplay her towering height. Her brothers, never missing a moment, would playfully call out, ‘Chin up, sis!’ whenever they caught her slouching to appear smaller than she was.
In 1929, at the age of 21, Amelia’s life took a dramatic turn when a car accident left her in a full body cast for 10 months and would ultimately affect her for the rest of her life. Doctors warned her she might never walk again or have children, but Amelia defied the odds. She recovered and married her doctor, Dr. Harry Stucky Frazier, and raised two sons, Harry Stucky Frazier Jr. and Owsley Brown Frazier.
Amelia’s personal experiences fueled her passion for physical rehabilitation, leading to the establishment of Frazier Rehab in 1954. The center, named in her honor in 1983, became a sanctuary of hope and healing for countless individuals, including members of her own family. Her granddaughter, Laura Frazier, benefited directly from the center’s expertise, overcoming Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease as a child with their help.
Beyond Frazier Rehab, Amelia’s philanthropic endeavors spanned a wide range of causes. She was a founding contributor to Actors Theatre of Louisville, ensuring the arts flourished in her community. She supported institutions like Bellarmine University, which named the Amelia Brown Frazier Convocation Hall in her honor. Her dedication to historic preservation saved Locust Grove, a cherished landmark. Amelia also championed mental health through her involvement with Wellspring and supported organizations like the Boy Scouts of America. To this day, it is good luck to rub Amelia’s nose on a bronze plaque outside the dining hall named after her at Camp Crooked Creek.
The family was central to Amelia’s life. She even planned my parent’s 2nd date, and when they were engaged, she sold a part of her land to my mother and father so they could be close and continue cherished Friday night dinners, a tradition her granddaughter, Laura, carried forward with Sunday dinners. Amelia’s deep connection to her family was evident in her close bond with Laura, whom she guided through wedding dress fittings and supported through life’s milestones.
Amelia’s indomitable spirit shone through even in her later years. Despite lingering effects from her accident, she remained active and engaged, frequently visiting Frazier Rehab to meet new therapists and connect with patients. Her determination to give back never waned. On Christmas Eve of 1989, her health declined, and she passed away on January 24, 1990, at the age of 81. Her granddaughter, Laura, was the only one by her side in her final moments.
Amelia’s obituary celebrated her as a philanthropist and a strong advocate for Louisville. Her contributions to economic development, the arts, social services, and education left an indelible mark on the community. Charles Huddeke III, president of the Louisville Chamber of Commerce, praised her generous spirit, while Eugene Petrik, president of Bellarmine College, noted her unwavering faith and spiritual outlook.
Amelia Brown Frazier’s legacy is etched in the institutions she helped build and the lives she touched. Her story is one of perseverance, compassion, and an unyielding belief in community.
Frazier Rehab is not only a place of rehabilitation but a sanctuary of second chances, resilience, and triumph for future generations.
As we celebrate Frazier Rehab’s 70th anniversary, let us remember that her strength and unwavering spirit laid the foundation for this incredible institution. Her commitment to the community, family, and innovation reminds us that what we do today shapes tomorrow.