Dec. 22, 2006

DALLAS (SMU) - Dr. Harold Jeskey, who served as Faculty Athletic Representative at SMU from 1966-75, passed away Friday morning in Dallas. The longtime Chairman of the SMU Chemistry Department died of natural causes at the age of 94. Services for Dr. Jeskey are pending.

Fondly known as "Doc", Jeskey taught organic chemistry at SMU from 1945-79 and served as the chair of the Chemistry Department from 1962-74. His former students number more than 800 physicians, 200 dentist, 75 PH.D.'s and 25 teachers in leading universities. In addition, the Dedman Life Sciences Building includes a lecture hall named in honor of Dr. Jeskey. An endowed professorship in chemistry (established in 1988) also bears his name as does a scholarship for undergraduate chemistry majors who plan to pursue careers in medicine or dentistry.

A passionate fan of SMU athletics, Dr. Jeskey was a member of the Mustang Club and volunteered in the SMU Sports Information Department for many years after his retirement. He attended most of the football and men's and women's basketball home games.