Washington University in St. Louis remembered Richard D. Brasington, Jr, MD, Professor Emeritus of Medicine as well as former Director of the Rheumatology Clinic and Rheumatology Fellowship Training Program at the university’s School of Medicine, after his passing on April 30 at the age of 71. Dr. Brasington left behind a legacy as a devoted educator and outstanding clinician. He was known for his expertise in rheumatic and autoimmune disease diagnosis and treatment, as well as his dedication to improving mental health and wellness. He began his career as an internal medicine resident and rheumatology fellow at the University of Iowa Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine—thereafter joining Washington University in St. Louis. In his over 25 years at the university, Dr. Brasington trained generations of medical residents and rheumatology fellows, developed a new clinical trials unit in the Division of Rheumatology, aided in the establishment of the James and Philip Brasington Memorial Endowed Fund in the Department of Psychiatry, and worked to improve the standard of care for patients with rheumatic diseases. In 2015, he was awarded the Distinguished Program Director’s Award by the American College of Rheumatology. “He had an incredible energy and enthusiasm for rheumatology, medicine, teaching, and life. He was witty, creative, and fun to be with, and he will be sorely missed,” expressed colleague Victoria J. Fraser, MD, the Adolphus Busch Professor and Chair of the Department of Medicine in the Division of Infectious Diseases at Washington University in St. Louis. Dr. Brasington is survived by his wife, three children and stepdaughter, six grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.
May 31, 2023