By Tamika McMayo

University professor Brian Molloy, 56, passed away on Oct. 23 from esophageal cancer after a difficult 16-month battle with the disease.

He was an adjunct professor who taught English Composition I and II for the English department and Honors College, and tutored for the writing center. In the three years that Molloy worked at the University, many students, faculty and staff have grown to admire and respect him.

Molloy received his bachelor of arts degree in English from Fredonia University and his master’s degree from Columbia University Teacher’s College. He later became active administrator and a student advocate.

Lisa Dresner, a special assistant professor, said that during the wake, Molloy’s twin brother shared interesting details about Molloy’s life before he became an instructor.

Molloy was a taxicab and a limousine driver. He was also an accomplished sailor and a certified captain for the Coast Guard.

According to colleagues, Molloy was admired for his wisdom, generosity and his wry sense of humor.

Paula Uruburu, Ph.D, the chair of the English department, said that Molloy had a love of writing and literature.

“His rare gift as a natural teacher and mentor inspired several of his students to become English majors after having taken courses with him,” Uruburu said.

Professors Joe Paretta and Carol Porr said that Molloy was a gentleman whose passion was to give students the opportunity to learn.

“He was always smiling and so happy to be here,” Paretta said.