“I’ve had the great fortune to live a charmed life. I’ve spent each day immersed in medical research,” Dr. Stephen Prescott said when he was inducted into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame in 2020. “When you do something you love, you don’t work a day in your life.”
After a four-year journey with cancer, Dr. Prescott passed away on May 28, 2021. He was 73 and had just marked his 15-year anniversary as president of OMRF.
Before he was an internationally recognized vascular biologist or a leader of two different institutions (OMRF and the Huntsman Cancer Institute), Dr. Prescott grew up in College Station, Texas. Even though his father was a biochemistry professor, science wasn’t his first love. “I spent way too much of my life dreaming of being a major league baseball player,” he remembered in a 2006 interview with Findings magazine.
When college curveballs put an end to that fantasy during his freshman year at Texas A&M University, the one-time outfielder decided to redirect his energy into pre-med classes. After three years and an honors degree at A&M, he headed to the Baylor College of Medicine, where he also graduated with honors. A residency in internal medicine at the University of Utah and a post-doctoral fellowship at Washington University in St. Louis followed.
It was in St. Louis that Dr. Prescott cut his teeth as a medical researcher. “I’m innately curious, and I like to understand how things work,” he said. “So, I knew I wanted to have a career in research.”
Dr. Prescott joined the faculty at the University of Utah, where he enjoyed an eminent career in the lab. The underlying theme of his research was understanding how blood vessels behave. The field didn’t have a name when Dr. Prescott began his research career, but by the early 1990s, scientists had coined the term “vascular biology” to describe this emerging discipline.
The work had implications for heart disease, but it also touched a number of different areas. His research led to the development of Cox-2 inhibitors, the anti-inflammatory drugs now used to treat severe arthritis. And it led him into cancer research, searching for new ways to stop tumor growth. Appointments as the senior director for research and, ultimately, executive director of the university’s Huntsman Cancer Institute followed.
For many years, Dr. Prescott kept up with the research at OMRF through Dr. Rod McEver, OMRF’s vice president of research, whom he knew from his first research fellowship in St. Louis and through scientific collaborations. He also served on OMRF’s scientific advisory board and as an external advisor on an OMRF grant. So, when he learned that OMRF was searching for a new leader, he decided to take a look. “He was very impressed with everybody,” remembered his wife, Susan. “The more people he met, the more convinced he became that OMRF was the right place.” In 2006, Dr. Prescott became OMRF’s ninth president.
Over the next decade and a half, he guided OMRF to new heights. He led the largest campus expansion in foundation history, raising $100 million to construct a new research tower, which added 186,000 square feet of research and clinical space when it opened its doors in 2011. It houses a variety of state-of-the-art labs, including one that bears Dr. Prescott’s name, thanks to the generosity of the Puterbaugh Foundation. The tower is also home to OMRF’s Multiple Sclerosis Center of Excellence, which now counts 3,000 patients from Oklahoma and surrounding states.
During his time at the helm, OMRF three times earned designation as a National Institutes of Health Autoimmunity Center of Excellence. Dr. Prescott recruited more than 40 new principal investigators to the foundation, and three drugs born in OMRF labs reached the market. OMRF also repeatedly earned top marks from Charity Navigator, the nation’s leading nonprofit evaluator, and among surveys ranking Oklahoma’s top workplaces.
As with his research – 270 articles cited nearly 40,000 times – his leadership earned him numerous plaudits. Among those honors were Oklahoma’s Most Admired CEO, the Hall of Fame Leadership Award from the OK Bioscience Association, and, finally, induction into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame. Not bad, Dr. Prescott would have joked, for a recovered Texan.
In April, he announced his retirement. Since being diagnosed with urothelial cancer in 2017, he’d been open with his health struggles. While the treatments proved debilitating at times, he showed remarkable resiliency and positivity in the face of odds that grew increasingly long. “Not once did I hear him say, ‘Why me?’ or feel sorry for himself,” said Len Cason, chair of OMRF’s board.
Dr. Prescott said that his cancer journey gave him a fresh appreciation for research. “It’s driven home why it’s so important to keep searching for new approaches to treat disease,” he wrote in 2019. But, he said, the most “wonderful” part of having cancer was the support that so many people showed to him and his family.
When he passed away, he was surrounded by his family. He is survived by Susan, his wife of more than 50 years; his children, Allison and John; and his granddaughters, Ruby, Lily and Isabella (all three of whom he liked to describe as “perfect”).
Upon news of his death, U.S. Rep. Tom Cole released a statement that spoke for countless Oklahomans. “I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of my dear friend Dr. Stephen Prescott,” Cole said. “In addition to being a spectacular leader who took the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation to the next level, he was a treasured friend and close advisor on issues related to biomedical research and science. He will be greatly missed by me in both capacities.”
We are collecting remembrances of Dr. Prescott. If you have one, we encourage you to share it below so we can share it with his family. If you prefer to share your thoughts privately, please email contact@omrf.org.
Greg Karnes says
Though we never met, I have admired Dr. Prescott’s career and his dedication to his work from afar.
Jim Morris says
Some people are smart while others are kind, considerate, caring or simply good people. Steve had all of these traits. He was a wonderful husband, father and friend. I can’t begin to say how much I will miss him.
Courtney Montgomery says
I am deeply saddened to hear of our leader’s passing. It has been wonderful to work under someone who allowed his scientists autonomy and “space” to think freely while also insuring the stability of the foundation. I have such fond memories of the last 12 years both professionally and personally and will be forever grateful for the encouragement and hospitality offered by both him and Susan. Blessings of comfort for the Prescott family.
Patrick Gaffney says
I arrived at OMRF shortly after Steve did. From the very beginning, he took a genuine interest in my career and provided sound counsel on numerous occasions. I always enjoyed his “out of the box” ideas, some of which I thought were rather quirky but he wasn’t afraid to take OMRF into new areas and experiences. He was one of the few people I have known that could flow seamlessly between the laboratory bench and boardroom table without seeming the least bit uncomfortable in each place. I know that I am a better scientist and person for having known him these short 15 years.
Judy Lehmbeck says
What a wonderful person snd such a great person to work with on the fund raisers we did together
He was my rock on television during the pandemic and I hung on every word
Rheal Towner says
Steve was a guiding light for my career at OMRF. He always provided sound advice and was responsible for linking me with clinical scientists that launched our drug for glioblastoma into clinical trials. He was a true leader in all aspects of what a leader should stand for. It was my honor and privilege to know Steve not only as a the president for OMRF, but as a fundamental mentor for my research endeavors at OMRF. He will be sadly missed.
Hiram Champlin says
My relationship with Dr. Prescott was more than just as a board member. Shortly after he came to OMRF he called me and said he wanted to go to dinner. It was the start of a good friendship that deepened my commitment to the Foundation. He was a confidant that helped me find doctors for several far flung older friends that found themselves in unknown medical territory. It is a scary thing to be away from home and not having anyone to turn to for medical advice. Steve always took the time to help my friends that he had never met. Steve was instrumental in helping me through my own journey with cancer. After being diagnosed with Non Hodgkins Lymphoma I thought the only thing to do was go to MD Anderson. I called Steve to help me get in. He patiently explained my options, and convinced me that maybe going far from home wasn’t the best answer. There were great options right where I live in Dallas. Steve vetted a Lymphoma specialist for me and got me in right away(no easy task). When I went to the initial appointment the specialist wanted to know who I knew because he had never been inundated with calls from people in high places like this before. It was all thanks to Steve. God bless you, Steve.
Penny Voss says
Dr. Prescott was a mentor, leader and friend. Simply put, the best boss I’ve ever had. He believed in the mission of OMRF and inspired all of us to do our part to help advance medical research. He loved sharing stories about his family, world travels and important life experiences. He led by example and I learned something new every time I was around him. Words cannot express how much he will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with Susan and his family during this difficult time.
Richard Parry says
The first time I met with Dr. Prescott was at the OKC Zoo Amphitheatre ~ a great omen for future fun OMRF fundraising events.
I appreciated the introductions to Alice Cooper, Asleep at the Wheel, Keb’Mo’ (to name just a few), as well as the education, patience, and wisdom he provided along the way. To reiterate the quote from U.S. Rep Tom Cole, “a spectacular leader”.
Justice Steven Taylor says
Susan (First Lady of OMRF),
As we got to know each other, Steve became a great friend to me. We had the very best conversations about everything and always our solutions to most problems! He saw me through my kidney cancer. He hosted my retirement dinner when I retired from the Supreme Court. President Prescott was the consummate leader at OMRF and The Puterbaugh Foundation has honored him by providing funding for a Lab named in his honor and now as a lead donor to the Prescott Endowment at OMRF.
I loved my friend Steve Prescott and will miss him and always remember him. Always.
Steve Taylor
Fred Lee, MD FACP says
With deepest condolences to a tireless research scientist with contribution for the betterment of human health. God speed, Dr. Prescott.
Fleming scholar, 1974
Adam Cohen says
When I first met Dr. Prescott, I learned quickly that we shared two tastes: Diet Cokes and smart-aleck humor. Over the next 15 years, I discovered we had far more than that in common. I came to know his voice almost better than my own, relying on him for guidance and insight. Even when I did not trust in myself, he trusted me, giving me room to learn and grow. He never micro-managed, and I always knew he was in my corner. Unconditionally. I will miss him dearly, both as a mentor and as a friend.
C. Michael Carolina says
Dr. Prescott touched the lives of many, many people and his impact is global. I will always remember him as the exemplary clinician, researcher, administrator and humanitarian. To the Prescott family: thank you for sharing Steve with us.
With deepest condolences,
C. Michael Carolina
OMRF Board Member
Antoinette Roach says
Dr. Prescott will be greatly missed. His leadership and guidance lead OMRF to be the best on the land. A debt of gratitude is owed. Lifting his family in thought and prayer 🙏
Courtney Griffin says
I am struggling to imagine an OMRF without Steve. He brought class, intelligence, creativity, and relatability to the Foundation and made it such a fun and vibrant place to work. I so admired Steve’s way with words and with people; he made us all feel special. Susan, I grieve Steve’s passing with you but am so grateful to have known him for almost 13 years.
Carl Edwards says
During the past years when I was fortunate enough to work with Dr. Prescott as a member of his Board of Directors and as Chairman of Presbyterian Health Foundation, I was able to watch Dr. Prescott literally take medical research in Oklahoma to new heights by leading his team as it had never been led before. I have never seen anyone who affected his industry like he did, and we were the beneficiaries. He will be remembered forever by PHF’s team for his magnificent handling of his medical industry and his dealing with people. He will be missed.
Carl Edwards
Manu Nair says
In everyone’s life and career, there will be few people who leave a defining mark as mentors. Dr. Steve Prescott was that individual to me. My friend and mentor! If someone asked me to define Steve in a single word, “quintessential optimist” will be my word. He taught me to continue seeing the best in people. His advice to me was that “if you lose your ability to believe in the art of the possible, you are losing the very meaning of being human”… That attitude is what made him bold and visionary. Steve was all about trying new ideas. He loved new challenges, like a kid in a candy store. His enthusiasm was contagious. I am thankful for the time that I got to serve under his leadership. Steve’s passing is a terrible and painful loss.
Dick Fischer says
Steve put up a helluva fight and helped to advance science at the same time. He was one of the most gifted and versatile persons I have ever known.
Joan Merrill says
Dr. Prescott had a vision about how 21st Century technologies could be applied to transform the field of medicine. I heard him give a number of compelling talks on that subject, and I also saw him help to bring that quest a little closer to reality during his leadership at OMRF. He handled his illness with openness, grace and dignity, reminding us that being human isn’t just a thing we don’t have a choice about, but also a thing we need not try to hide. Thank you, Dr. Prescott.
Philip M Silverman says
There is a Yiddish word that describes Steve Prescott: mensch. The word’s meaning is profound but subtle, much like Steve’s effect on OMRF. Never loud; never strident; always decent and welcoming; and never, never about him. At the same time, Steve was a consummate professional, informed by experience about what good science requires, skilled in what is required to create an environment where good science can flourish, and sensitive to the wider obligations of those whom experience and skill favor.
I cannot say that Steve had the same effect on me that he obviously had on so many others. When he arrived at OMRF in 2006, I was already too old and had too many miles on the odometer. But I can say that I admired, liked, and trusted Steve. For me, that’s saying a lot; it’s a sentiment I reserve for mensches.
Philip Silverman
OMRF (1988-2010)
Charleen Mills says
Dr. Prescott probably never knew how special he was to our family! He always treated us like he had know us for years. A very caring, lovable friend! He will be missed greatly. Prayers go out to Susan and family.
Jenyann Roig says
I am the AM Executive Producer at KOCO in Oklahoma City. Dr. Prescott made a lasting impression on me from the moment he walked in the door for an interview. He was personable and humble. Coronavirus had just made its mark in Oklahoma City and we didn’t know much about the virus except that we needed to social distance so we couldn’t shake hands with the guests. My anchor decided at the end of the interview , he would do the Wakanda Forever hand signal and without missing a beat, Dr. P did the Star Trek hand signal. He would adopt the Wakanda signal for the other interviews that were conducted virtually through the pandemic year. Through chemo and cancer, Dr. P made sure Oklahomans knew the latest on the pandemic. He never let his health get in the way of his duty. Dr. Prescott became one of my favorite guests to come on our show and I will always remember him with the utmost joy and respect. We miss him already. My prayers and sympathies go out to his family.
David Forsthoefel says
From my first interview at OMRF, to my last email exchange, I learned something important from Dr. Prescott during every conversation. He was instrumental in enabling me to take the next step in my scientific career, and for that I will always be grateful. Dr. Prescott was personable, wise, generous, and an outstanding example of how to not only endure, but to excel, in the face of difficult challenges. My deepest condolences to the Prescott family.
Lijun Xia says
Last Monday, introduced by Dr. Steve Prescott, I attended the Bio Happy Hour at the Zig downtown for networking with local biotech communities. I met Mr. Manu Nair, and we both expected to meet Steve there as we knew Steve had been an ardent leader in promoting OKC Biotech. Steve did not show up, but none of us thought he might then be battling the cancer we felt confident he had turned a promising corner in fighting. I am now still in shock at the sudden and terrible news of our loss of an optimistic leader, a caring and charismatic mentor, and a true visionary. Among his many endeavors, one of his dreams was to launch discoveries made by OKC-based scientists on to the radar of the bioscience and technology marketplaces, and to eventually develop life-saving medical technologies and medicines right here in OKC. An integral foundation of that vision, he had been an enthusiastic promoter of the OKC Innovation District. At Monday’s party, I met with many talented and enthusiastic biotech ventures capitalists and entrepreneurs, some just relocated to OKC all the way from Silicon Valley. Although Steve left us too soon, I believe that, of the many missions he has been instrumental in, the development of the OKC Innovation District will continue, and those dreams will be realized.
Beth Benefield says
OMRF will not be the same without Dr. Prescott, and I will miss him. He was such a kind man; last March when my father was in the hospital after a triple bypass surgery, I reached out to Dr. Prescott because I was so worried about my dad’s “ICU delirium” and also about possibly giving him COVID. Dr. Prescott called me personally and gave me reassurance during an extremely scary time. And when my father ended up passing away, he sent me a very sweet handwritten note. A few years ago when I was having severe back pain, I saw the same physical therapist/Pilates instructor as him and his appointment was always right after mine. It was always so weird to see this VIP who usually wore a suit and tie hanging out in casual work out clothes! Over the years in my role as Benefits Manager, I have assisted Dr. Prescott with many insurance issues. And while occasionally he would get (understandably) upset/frustrated, he was always very appreciative of my help and I was honored to be the one to fix the problems. My deepest sympathies for Susan and the rest of his family.
Jasim says
I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Dr. Stephen Prescott. I remember meeting him for the first time about 6 years ago during the interview process, when he said I understand you might be thinking ‘what does this place have to offer, especially since you’re moving from the Rockefeller University in the heart of Manhattan?’ He and then the Chair of the CVB, Dr. Rod McEver (now the VP of the Research) assured me that in addition to a state-of-the-art lab and other support, the Institute would provide anything I might need to advance my work just by calling him or Dr. McEver. As he probably knew, I never had to call him because OMRF indeed provided everything I needed, but the assurance of his backing was a deciding factor in my joining OMRF. He was a spectacular leader who elevated our Institute and inspired our science, and he will be greatly missed by me and my colleagues as well as the scientific community.
Sean Cummings says
My wife Terri and I are very saddened by Steve’s passing. We are so grateful God put him in our path through life. He was always very gracious, kind and supportive, whether it was when our son was in the hospital many times and he checked in or just out having fun together socially. His passing is a great loss and we will truly miss Steve and all the wonderful times we shared.
Padmaja says
Dr. Prescott and I had few personal interactions, mostly limited to occasional greetings in the hallway, and a few brief emails I sent him (to which he always replied) either congratulating him for an accolade received, or thanking him for gracefully and candidly sharing his health updates and wishing him well. As a long time employee of the scientific staff at OMRF, however, I recognized the change Dr. Prescott brought to OMRF. His leadership style was not only inspiring, but transparent and inclusive and made us all feel valued as members of the OMRF family. Despite his own health struggles he showed bold initiative during the pandemic and I often had friends and acquaintances reach out asking if Dr. Prescott had any special advice about the latest developments on the Covid front. Working at OMRF has always been a privilege and a pleasure, but with Dr. Prescott at the helm there was an added element of pride. I am truly saddened by his passing. My deepest condolences to his family and close friends.
Craig Kaplan says
I started my career in Steve’s laboratory as a post-bacc before going to graduate school. I learned a lot with Steve, mostly how much I didn’t know. Having had this critical experience was so formative for me. When I took my first faculty position, I was proud to join the department at Texas A&M where Steve’s father was head for a long time. Steve was always driven to expand and support research into diseases that cause so much pain. He wanted to create and build institutions that would make an impact even if it too a long time to do it. I am sad for his passing, but very proud of what he was able to do in his time. My deepest sympathies to his family and friends.
Lyla Rousseau says
I have never met Dr. Prescott but I count him as part of my support team during 2020. My husband and I both had COVID in March of last year, just as the world started to fall apart. I had always been a fan of Dr. Prescott’s opinions, but his words became a lifeline, a trustworthy source of information, and sometimes a lighthearted look at our very confusing world. I read every article that he wrote for the newspaper, particularly remembering a story about the life of a hermit and also the announcement that he and his wife had discovered “Happy Hour” at home and through Zoom!!! I was so sad when I read that he was stepping down from his position at OMRF and sadder still when I read his final “farewell “ article for the paper. But in my mind I understood and wished for him and his family some much deserved down time. Not nearly long enough after that, I read the story of his death. My thoughts and prayers go out to all who knew him, who worked with him, and who loved him. He will be greatly missed, even by those of us who never met him.
Cindy McCachern says
I am an Oklahoma educator. Although I have not met Dr. Prescott, I valued reading the OMRF newsletter each week–especially during the pandemic. I revered it as a voice of truth and reason in the midst of a great deal of uncertainty. I send my deepest condolences to his family. His passing is a great loss to our community and to the world. Thank you for sharing him with us.
Naomi Esmon says
Reading through the comments, it’s obvious how Steve was a mentor and/or special person to many people and will be deeply missed; probably even by folks who don’t even realize it … like the family and friends of the many he has helped in many ways. So I want to write from a slightly different direction. First, I find it hard to believe he’s gone, even though we’ve known it was coming for a while. I think that’s because I can’t help thinking of him as a “kid.” That’s science talk for a post-doctoral fellow when one is even only slightly more advanced on the ladder. That’s when I started to know and enjoy his company at conferences and such. When he was on the science advisory board for the foundation, we didn’t have to ‘worry’ about him when he came to check out our program. Like others, I also got to run into him from time to time at ‘our’ Pilates/PT place (did they give the OMRF a finders fee?). I think it was just over a year ago that when I told him I was glad to see him looking (and doing the exercises) so well, he said he almost felt guilty …. Supposedly being so sick but feeling just fine. And then the time near the beginning of the pandemic when the inlaws of one of the instructors had a very special trip to London planned and he was suggesting this probably was NOT a good time to go. Since this confirmed what I had been suggesting, I like to think I helped just a little bit to convince her not to go. And I must admit — knowing that Dr. Prescott would be interviewed regularly on KOCO regarding the pandemic, I think it changed my TV watching habits. I knew I could trust HIS view of what was happening around here. Yes – I will miss ‘the menche.’
Christian Kanady says
I had only one year to know the incomparable Dr. Steve Prescott, but in that short time I learned more profoundly from him than most people I’ve know my whole life. Similarly, the depth of Steve’s affect on OMRF and the Oklahoma medical ecosystem can be measured in quantum light years. Steve was an absolute juggernaut of a human. His acerbic wit, princely charm and encyclopedic storytelling were calling cards he played masterfully. And to make him even more uncanny, Steve’s mind was only outmatched by Steve’s heart. As a native Okie, I am immensely grateful to Susan and to the entire Prescott family to have had Steve on loan to our community. His legacy will forever be written in the annals of Oklahoman folklore. Steve will continue to live in the countless stories and lessons we have from him. Rest In Peace, Doc. I will miss you but Heaven just became a lot more fun.
Dr Debashish Danda says
It was a deep shock to hear about Prof Prescott’s demise through a message from my ex-colleague and friend Dr Biji Kurien at OMRF. Although I was aware of his downhill health issues in recent times, I was hoping that he will come out of this crisis. My last correspondence with him few months back was that of a reassurance from him of future collaborations.
During my 1 year stint at OMRF (2013-14) as Greenberg scholar, and several months prior to joining OMRF when I visited Dr Prescott for a day, I had experienced the kind soul, able leader and accomplished scientist in him. With a great sensitivity for international scholars, he stood tall in my heart and mind amongst all people whom I continue to admire in my life. I am thankful to him not only for giving me the lifetime opportunity to experience one of the greatest academic exposures in my life at OMRF, the mecca of lupus research in the contemporary world.
OMRF is studded with many great scholars nurtured by him namely Dr Judith James, Dr Pat Gaffney, Dr Hal Scofield, Dr Swapan Nath and many more stalwart scientists and young bright minds. I am sure that Prof Prescott’s legacy will live and flourish through the torch bearers; OMRF’s able and sincere scientists will continue to lead the light under the new incumbent leadership.
I pray for the departed soul to rest in peace and convey my sincere condolences to the bereaved family and all the staff of OMRF.
Tim Hassen says
Dr. Prescott’s passing is an huge loss to the State, OMRF and the scientific community to which he dedicated his life. Steve was an amazing leader that had a subtle way of providing guidance without being overbearing. His management and leadership style allowed me to develop and grow professionally, and for that I will be forever grateful. I send my deepest sympathies to Susan and the family. Steve will be greatly missed.
Clytie Bunyan says
I was so sad to read that Dr. Prescott has died. He was one of my favorite public figures. I admired how, despite his obvious failing health, he persisted in keeping the public informed during the pandemic. He will be missed, but mostly, his work made a positive difference to Oklahomans and I’m sure to people around the country.
Kelie Watson says
As his personal trainer, the first time I trained Dr. Prescott I put him on the leg extension machine. It was the first machine I put him on, on the first day we met. It was too light for him, so we kept adding more and more and more. And I said, “This is impressive for…” and he interrupted and said “What, for an old man?” And I was so flustered, but he just smiled and said “I’m just kidding, Kelie.” And he was never intimidating again. He just had a way about him. He wasn’t “the president” to me, he was “Dr.P”
Astrid Rasmussen says
Dr. Prescott hardly knew me, nevertheless he trusted me to lead the IRB in the new direction he envisioned. During my four years of tenure, he checked in regularly and supported me unconditionally. It meant the world to me.
Steve Weise says
Though I never met Dr. Prescott face-to-face, he helped my family twice over the years in times of medical challenges. Through close friend, Lance Benham, I contacted the doctor in regards to my wife’s serious medical challenges in 2007, and before a prognosis. He helped me obtain a strong medical team in Atlanta and telephone expert help when I needed it. Through his guidance, I became smarter on autoimmune diseases and on asking better questions of her doctors, as my wife worked through diagnosis, treatment and recovery from PAN. Dr. Prescott’s support was key. She is still in remission.
Then, in 2018, I asked for his help with selecting doctors in NC who could help our son (US Army, medically retired) get expert testing and treatment for TBI/PTSD after multiple tours and multiple wounds in Iraq and Afghanistan. Once again, Dr. Prescott came through with excellent options for us to pursue in NC. I will always be grateful for his assistance to our family.
Our family knows first hand how Dr. Prescott helped others as a doctor and a good human being. We mourn his death, but are ever so thankful that he lived. Our sincere condolences to his family and friends. Steve Weise
Mary Schneeberger says
I’m reflecting now that my interactions with Dr. P were usually in medium- to large-sized social gatherings, and yet he always warmly greeted me and spent time talking with me, exuding charm and kindness, connecting, making me think and feel. A gem of a person and I will miss him. He and Susan exemplified such a loving partnership—both are role models to me.
With heartfelt fondness and love,
Mary
David Bialis says
I was fortunate enough to spend time with Dr. Prescott on several golf trips to Hawaii. What an experience to be around him and witness his genius. There wasn’t a topic we discussed I didn’t learn something. I had a good friend who was diagnosed with MS and he frequently provided advice and checked in to see how things were going. He was a true giant in so many ways and although I left OKC more than 10 years ago I will never forget him.
Lily Wong says
As a relatively new research staff at OMRF, I experienced the leadership of Dr. Steve Prescott through the culture and research environment. OMRF appreciates and values the work of the research staff. OMRF is innovative in meeting the challenges of the 21st century. I am especially grateful and impressed by the way how OMRF had navigated and continues to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Prescott has a permanent spot in my heart.
Ervin Yen says
A truly great man. I miss him.
Cory Giles says
I remember visiting Dr. Prescott’s house as a fresh young Fleming Scholar. He was gracious and courteous, of course, and I thought that he bore a very striking resemblance to William Shatner when he was a bit younger. Honestly, I couldn’t help thinking that every time I saw him.
Although I didn’t know him well, Dr. Prescott’s passing has special meaning to me because he became president of OMRF within months of when I started in science. I have never known an OMRF without Steve, and he has been a constant part of my scientific world. He clearly cared about the success of the foundation, and his legacy obviously exists all around us. Best wishes to the family.
Theresa Cullen says
I know of Dr. Prescott in Georgia only because my daughter and son-in-law both work at OMRF and thought so highly of him. Over the years they sent me things he wrote, and I always commented back how beautifully he used words. I taught writing to college students for over thirty years, and I know eloquence when I see it. His piece on his diagnosis and treatment for his cancer should be suggested reading in all writing classes. What an exceptional person he was and what an inspiration he will remain.
Tom Cartwright says
Steve was a member of our family over the last 6 decades. He was always there and willing to help with the various problems a family incurs -a stitch or two, a medical recommend, a quick something from his medical bag, a hospital visit. And a lot more-a ski lesson, a family reunion, good food and company-I could go on another page or two but you get the picture. I know his professional life was great and productive. His personal life was also and he will be greatly missed.
RIP. Steve
Charles Friedman and Susan Van Dyke says
Dear Susan
Our love and condolences to you and you family. I am fortunate to be a Regular Guy from Phoenix and know Steve in a space where we could be our regular selves, hanging out, eating well, drinking, playing golf and just carrying on. If an event brought Steve to town, I loved it because I didn’t get to see him often enough and we always picked up where we had left off. And when it was my time to have a scary medical issue, he was there to offer every resource he had, and his counsel, in helping me choose a course of action. He was my rock. I will miss him and carry the blessing of his memory always.
Love and blessings,
Chuck and Susan
Sathish Srinivasan says
Steve was a model for courage and optimism. He spirit will inspire OMRF for many years.
Richard Lawn says
That was a remarkable tribute today to one of the most truly outstanding persons I have ever had the good fortune to know.
Hugo Castro Faria Neto says
Steve is my mentor, my role model and my friend. I will never speak of him in the past and I will never forget him.