Long-time UTA professor Allan Saxe (1939-2024) died on June 17th. Peers, friends, former students, and others soon offered tributes and condolences. He was a man who made a tremendous impact on the lives of others. Arlington lost a one-of-a-kind soul, and we’ll continue to feel his presence long after his passing.
Allan Saxe (1939-2024)
Allan Saxe (February 11, 1939 – June 17, 2024)
Allan Saxe was born in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma on February 11, 1939. He attended the University of Oklahoma, earning his bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees in political science. Saxe began teaching at UTA in 1965 when it was still known as Arlington State College. He taught political science at UTA until 2019, when health concerns forced him to retire. His classes were always packed with students. Saxe’s classes featured lively discussions, quirky antics, and engaging authenticity. His faculty profile on UTA’s website lists over a dozen awards and honors.
In 2001, he wrote a book entitled “Politics of Arlington, Texas: An Era of Continuity and Growth.” This case study—utilizing interviews, city documents, and media records—offers a compelling look at Arlington’s political landscape during the formative second half of the 20th century. In addition to being an author, he conducted research, gave talks, and was a radio commentator.
Politics of Arlington Texas: An Era of Continuity and Growth by Allan Saxe
Active in the community
Saxe served on the boards of the Arlington Life Shelter and Humane Society of North Texas, among others. He also volunteered for several organizations and was recognized as Meals on Wheels Volunteer of the Year.
Prolific philanthropist
Saxe tirelessly donated to countless causes and charities around the community. He funded projects at the UTA campus, around Arlington, and beyond. His donations benefited parks, gardens, pavilions, softball fields, meeting rooms, lobbies, and more. The Arlington Life Shelter, Mission Arlington, and the Humane Society of North Texas were personal causes for Allan, which he supported dearly. He also contributed to many scholarships. He was humble and generous with his giving.
A life well-lived
Allan passed away on June 17, 2024, at age 85. His obituary noted that he “dedicated his life to education, political science, and community service.” Remembered for his sense of humor and vibrant personality, he was also a lover of animals, art, and music.
A man of contrasts:
- Starred in a self-made parody of Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” music video.
- Carried the Olympic torch triumphantly through Arlington in 1996.
- Donned a squirrel costume while meeting George W. Bush.
- Donated substantial money as a philanthropist.
It’s those widely varying accomplishments that helped make Allan Saxe such a one-of-a-kind person.
Olympic torch and a giant squirrel costume — such was Allan Saxe
On July 11th, UTA hosted “In Celebration of a Life Well-Lived” to commemorate his life and legacy. The event included a ten-minute photo montage of his life and a screening of his “Thriller” music video. Peers, friends, and admirers shared stories and memories. “He made our lives better,” said Arlington Mayor Jim Ross during the event. Saxe’s generosity and philanthropy were a common theme throughout the event, as was his impact on the thousands of students he taught. Arlington will deeply miss Dr. Allan Saxe.
Photo Credits: UTA Libraries | Digital Galleries
Allan Saxe Tributes & Further Reading
- Allan A. Saxe | Obituary
- Arlington philanthropist Allan Saxe dies, leaving long legacy around city, UTA
- Allan Saxe memorial celebrates lifelong generosity, lasting legacy in Arlington
- Remembering the Contributions of Professor and Philanthropist Dr. Allan Saxe
- Allan Saxe, beloved UT-Arlington professor obsessed with philanthropy, has died
- In Memoriam: Beloved UTA Professor, Philanthropist Allan Saxe (1939 – 2024)
- One-of-a-kind professor Allan Saxe dies at 85, community reflects
- Allan Saxe Faculty Profile at UTA
Photo Credits:
Allan A. Saxe obituary. https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/dfw/name/allan-saxe-obituary?id=55436254. Accessed 12 Jul 2024.
University of Texas at Arlington Photograph Collection, University of Texas at Arlington Libraries. Dr. Allan Saxe, 1996 Olympic Torch Relay. 1996. UTA Libraries Digital Gallery, https://library.uta.edu/digitalgallery/img/10018575. Accessed 12 Jul 2024
Shorthorn Photographs Collection, University of Texas at Arlington Libraries. Allan Saxe and Jim Norwood at Allan Saxe Parkway. 1986. UTA Libraries Digital Gallery, https://library.uta.edu/digitalgallery/img/10022672. Accessed 12 Jul 2024.
University of Texas at Arlington News Service Photograph Collection, University of Texas at Arlington Libraries. Allan Saxe. 1981. UTA Libraries Digital Gallery, https://library.uta.edu/digitalgallery/img/10022583. Accessed 12 Jul 2024.
University of Texas at Arlington News Service Photograph Collection, University of Texas at Arlington Libraries. Allan Saxe. 1981. UTA Libraries Digital Gallery, https://library.uta.edu/digitalgallery/img/10022581. Accessed 12 Jul 2024.
Fort Worth Star-Telegram Collection, University of Texas at Arlington Libraries. Professor Allan Saxe of UTA. 1983. UTA Libraries Digital Gallery, https://library.uta.edu/digitalgallery/img/10002380. Accessed 12 Jul 2024.
Fort Worth Star-Telegram Collection, University of Texas at Arlington Libraries. Allan Saxe with Meals on Wheels. 1982. UTA Libraries Digital Gallery, https://library.uta.edu/digitalgallery/img/10018555. Accessed 12 Jul 2024.
University of Texas at Arlington. Office of Public Affairs Records, University of Texas at Arlington Libraries. Allan Saxe at Allan Saxe Park. 1990. UTA Libraries Digital Gallery, https://library.uta.edu/digitalgallery/img/10018569. Accessed 12 Jul 2024.
Author’s Note: Some sources differ as to whether Saxe died on June 17th or June 18th. His obituary and the celebration of life event at UTA said June 17th, which is what I used in this blog post.
Blog post by Jason S. Sullivan, 07-20-24
Jason S. Sullivan 