Brother Hugh Albright, retired math professor

Brother Hugh Albright, 82, a retired professor of mathematics and former dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at La Salle University, died of heart failure Thursday, Feb. 24, at Chestnut Hill Hospital. He was a resident of Mount Airy.

Brother Albright was born in Jerusalem, where his father, William, a prominent archaeologist, was excavating an ancient site. His father was also an expert on Semitic languages, and his mother, Ruth, had a doctorate in Sanskrit languages.

Brother Albright attended a Christian Brothers school in Maryland and joined the religious order at age 18. He professed his final vows when he was 25.

He earned a bachelor's degree in mathematics from Catholic University of America and graduated summa cum laude in 1953. He earned a master's degree and doctorate in mathematics from the University of Pennsylvania.

In 1961, Brother Albright joined the La Salle faculty. From 1970 to 1976, he headed the College of Arts and Sciences. When he asked to be relieved of his duties as dean, he wrote the university's president: "I think six years is long enough and I'm anxious to go back and do some mathematics." Brother Albright was a recipient of the Lindback Award for Distinguished Teaching.

"He was very intelligent, an excellent teacher," said Brother Edward Davis, a retired La Salle professor.

Davis and Brother Albright lived for more than 40 years together in the Christian Brothers community in Mount Airy. "Never did he show anger or impatience of criticism. He had a wonderful sense of humor and a passionate enjoyment of life," Davis said.

Brother Albright enjoyed chess and played basketball in his younger years. He played the piano and studied Gregorian chant, which he taught to the Student Christian Brothers Choir.

Brother Albright is survived by brothers David and Stephen, and nieces and nephews.

A viewing will be held from 6 p.m. followed by Mass at 8 p.m., Tuesday, March 1, at De La Salle Chapel, La Salle University, 1900 W. Olney Ave. Burial will be in the Christian Brothers Cemetery in Beltsville, Md.

Donations may be made to Christian Brothers Retirement Fund, the St. La Salle Auxiliary, Box 1910, Beltsville, Md. 20704.