Marion Fraser facts for kids

Lady Marion Anne Fraser (born Forbes, October 17, 1932 – December 25, 2016) was an important Scottish music teacher and leader. She was known for her work in education and her dedication to many organizations.

About Marion Fraser's Early Life

Marion Fraser was born in Glasgow, Scotland. Her parents were Elizabeth Taylor Watt and Robert Forbes.

Her School and University Days

Marion went to school at Hutchesons' Girls' Grammar School in Glasgow. After that, she studied at the University of Glasgow starting in 1950. She earned a Master of Arts (MA) degree there. While at the university, she was chosen to be the president of the Queen Margaret Union. This was a student organization. Later, she went to the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama to study piano.

Her Family Life

In 1956, Marion married William Kerr Fraser. He had also been a student leader at the University of Glasgow. At the time, he worked for the Scottish government. William later became a very important leader in the government. He also became the head, or Principal, of the University of Glasgow. Marion and William had four children together: three sons and one daughter.

Marion Fraser's Career and Contributions

Marion Fraser worked as a music teacher. She became the director of St Mary's Music School in Edinburgh. She held this important role from 1989 to 1995.

Leading Important Organizations

Marion was also a founding chair of the Friends of the Royal Scottish Academy. This was from 1986 to 1989. She was a governor at the former Laurel Bank School for Girls. She also served as a Director of Scottish Opera.

In 1996, Marion Fraser received a very special honor. She was made a Lady of the Order of the Thistle. This is a high honor in Scotland. Her husband was already Sir William Fraser, so she was known as Lady Fraser. But after this, she became Lady Marion Fraser in her own right.

Helping Charities and Churches

Marion was a trustee for the Scottish Churches Architectural Heritage Trust. This group helps to protect old church buildings. She was also president of Scotland's Churches Scheme.

She was also a trustee for the Lamp of Lothian Collegiate Trust. From 1990 to 1997, she was the chairman of the Board of Christian Aid. This is a charity that helps people around the world. She also led the Scottish International Piano Competition. And she was the chairman of the Scottish Association for Mental Health.

From 1994 to 1995, Marion Fraser served as the Lord High Commissioner to the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland. This is a special role that represents the King or Queen at the Church of Scotland's main meeting.

Recognitions and Awards

Marion Fraser received many honors for her work. In 1998, she became an Honorary Member of the Company of Merchants of the City of Edinburgh. In 2002, she was made an Honorary Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow.

She also received honorary degrees from universities. The University of Glasgow gave her an honorary Doctor of Laws (LL.D.) degree in 1995. The University of Stirling gave her an honorary Doctor of the University (D.Univ.) degree in 1998.

Marion Fraser passed away on December 25, 2016, in Edinburgh.

Images for kids

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  Lady Marion's helm and crest above her stall in St. Giles' Cathedral.