Dr. David Thomas Magrane

Dr. David Thomas Magrane, 79, of Lexington, KY, formally of Morehead, passed away Friday, December 31, 2021. He was born January 6, 1942 in Ottumwa, Iowa to George and Pauline Magrane. David is a 1960 graduate of Ottumwa High School in Ottumwa, IA, where he was a nine-year letterman in football, basketball, and track. In 1962, he married his high school sweetheart Mary Ellyn. He attended Drake University on a track scholarship where he received his Bachelor’s degree in Biology and Master’s degree in Physiology. After graduation, he taught at Milliken University. He continued his education at the University of Arizona where he received his Doctorate in Animal Physiology. In addition, he did post-Doctorate research at the University of Minnesota in steroid biochemistry. In 1976, he began his 36 year career at Morehead State University as a professor in the Biology Department with the latter years serving as the Department Chair and then special assignments by the President of MSU. He was awarded the Distinguished Teacher Award for 1997-1998. In 2008, The David T Magrane Molecular Biology Laboratory was named in his honor at MSU. His love for teaching showed and it has impacted numerous students that went on to become doctors, teachers, physical therapists, nurses, and many other professions across the state of KY as well as nationwide. Throughout his life, he was passionately involved in his children and grandchildren’s lives and pushed them to succeed in life in academics and in athletics. He also coached and influenced many athletes of all ages. After retirement, he enjoyed time with his family, listening to music and gardening. He is survived by his wife, Mary of 59 years and four children, Joe (Renee) Magrane of Tampa, FL, Jennifer Boatwright of Lexington, KY, Joanie (David) Blevins of Flat Rock, MI, and Julie (Drew) Muntz of Richmond, KY. He is also survived by his grandchildren Austin (Sarah) Muntz, Shannon Magrane, Sophia Magrane, Rachel Blevins, Blake (fiancé Lauren) Muntz and Jake Muntz; a brother, Jerry Magrane of Ottumwa, IA, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, two sisters, and a son-in-law. A Celebration of Life service will be held on Tuesday, January 4th at 5:00 pm at Family Worship Center Church, 6020 Tates Creek Rd Lexington, KY. Visitation will be held prior to service from 3:00-5:00 pm at the church.