Memphis, TN, September 5, 2025
News Summary
St. Mary’s Episcopal School in Memphis has unveiled Liza’s Library, dedicated to Eliza “Liza” Fletcher, a beloved teacher who was tragically murdered. The library aims to honor her legacy and promote early childhood literacy. The opening coincided with the 4th annual Finish Liza’s Run event. With whimsical designs and a special book collection, the library is part of a $10 million initiative to enhance educational facilities and encourage community involvement.
Memphis Community Honors Beloved Teacher with New Library
Memphis, TN – St. Mary’s Episcopal School has dedicated Liza’s Library in memory of Eliza “Liza” Fletcher, a cherished educator who was tragically kidnapped and murdered three years ago during a morning run. A ribbon-cutting ceremony led by students marked the formal opening of the library, which aims to celebrate Fletcher’s enduring impact on her students while promoting early childhood literacy.
Eliza Fletcher was not only a beloved teacher at St. Mary’s but also an alumna, leaving a deep imprint on both the school’s educational community and the broader Memphis area. Her killer, Cleotha Abston Henderson, is currently serving a life sentence for her murder, a case that shocked the city and brought attention to issues surrounding violence and safety.
The recent inauguration of Liza’s Library coincided with the 4th annual Finish Liza’s Run event, underscoring the community’s commitment to keeping Fletcher’s memory alive. With the renovation of Moss Hall, the library became a part of a broader initiative that also includes new science classrooms and an expanded MakerSpace, enhancing both educational resources and facilities at the school.
Library Features and Design
Liza’s Library boasts a captivating design, featuring whimsical elements such as a storybook tree that echoes a favorite decoration from Fletcher’s own classroom. The space not only serves as a repository for books but is also designed to inspire a love of reading among students, reflecting Fletcher’s dedication as an educator.
Additionally, a special collection known as Liza’s Book Club was unveiled during the ceremony. This collection includes donations from Fletcher’s former classmates at Hutchison School, amounting to over $12,000 in contributions to foster literacy and celebrate her love for literature.
Funding and Community Involvement
The opening of Liza’s Library is part of a $10 million capital initiative titled Light, Life, & Legacy. This initiative seeks to not only upgrade educational facilities but also enhance the campus’s overall safety and learning environment. In addition to the library, improvements will include enhanced faculty workspaces, a new outdoor learning space, and an art gallery showcasing student work.
Legacy and Inspiration
Albert Throckmorton, the Head of School, expressed hope that Liza’s Library would inspire future generations while serving as a lasting reminder of Eliza Fletcher’s warmth and creativity. The library aims to create an atmosphere that celebrates Fletcher’s impact, fostering an encouraging environment for students to grow and learn, all while keeping her legacy alive in the hearts of the community.
Liza’s Library stands as a tribute to both the individual it memorializes and the spirit of resilience and hope it embodies, ensuring that Eliza Fletcher’s passionate commitment to education continues to inspire others for years to come.
FAQ
- What is Liza’s Library?
- Liza’s Library is a new library opened at St. Mary’s Episcopal School in Memphis, dedicated to the memory of Eliza “Liza” Fletcher, a beloved teacher and former student.
- Why was Liza’s Library created?
- The library was created to honor the legacy of Eliza Fletcher and to promote early childhood literacy among students.
- Who was Eliza Fletcher?
- Eliza Fletcher was a dedicated teacher at St. Mary’s Episcopal School who was tragically murdered three years ago. She was highly regarded by students and staff alike.
- What features are included in Liza’s Library?
- The library includes whimsical designs like a storybook tree, as well as a special book collection called Liza’s Book Club, donated by her former classmates.
- What is the Light, Life, & Legacy initiative?
- The Light, Life, & Legacy initiative is a $10 million capital project aimed at enhancing educational facilities at St. Mary’s Episcopal School, including upgrades to classrooms, faculty workspaces, and campus security.
Key Features of Liza’s Library and the Initiative
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Liza’s Library | A dedicated space to honor Eliza Fletcher and promote literacy. |
| Storybook Tree | A whimsical design element resembling one from Fletcher’s classroom. |
| Liza’s Book Club | A special collection of books donated by Fletcher’s former classmates. |
| Light, Life, & Legacy Initiative | A $10 million initiative for improving facilities, security, and learning spaces at St. Mary’s. |
| Expanded MakerSpace | A creative space for hands-on learning and innovation. |
| Community Impact | A tribute to Fletcher’s legacy and inspiration for future generations. |
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Additional Resources
- Action News 5
- Daily Memphian
- Fox 13 Memphis
- WREG
- Local Memphis
- Wikipedia: Violence against Women
- Google Search: Early Childhood Literacy
- Google Scholar: Eliza Fletcher
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Literacy
- Google News: Eliza Fletcher Memphis
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
