Dr. Maria K. Bachman

Dr. Maria K. Bachman, age 58, of Murfreesboro, passed away at home on Sunday, November 20, 2022. She was born on December 13, 1963 in Perth Amboy, New Jersey. She attended George Washington University (B.A.), George Mason University (M.A.), and The University of Tennessee Knoxville (Ph.D.). Dr. Bachman was a Professor of English at Middle Tennessee State University and co-editor of the Victorians Institute Journal. She also served on the Board of Trustees for the Dickens Society and was President of The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi. In her scholarly pursuits, she published six books and numerous critical articles on Victorian and Edwardian literature and culture. Dr. Bachman also held a number of administrative posts throughout her academic career at Middle Tennessee State University and Coastal Carolina University. She was the recipient of numerous teaching awards, including top honors at Coastal Carolina University, Alumna of the Year Award at George Mason University, and the Carnegie Foundation’s South Carolina Professor of the Year. Described by her family and friends as inspiring, generous, and equipped with a sharp witted sense of humor, Maria was someone who left indelible impressions on those who knew her. In addition to her passions for reading, teaching, and mentoring, Maria was a lifelong nature-lover — she could always discern the sublime in the trees, rocks, birds, and flowers right outside her door. In her final days, Maria continued to speak about helping others and loving nature. She was a bright light, come what may. Maria is survived by her loving spouse Karman Gossett of Murfreesboro; brothers Christopher Bachman (Elena) of Pearl River New York and Daniel Bachman (Maria Elena) of Wall Township, NJ; and special friend, Cathy Balenovic of Pembroke Pines, Florida. Maria was preceded in death by her parents, Donald E. Bachman and Alberta T. Bielen Bachman; and sister, Thea Rose Bachman. A Celebration of Life will be held at Rose-Mann Chapel on Saturday, April 1st at 1:00 PM, with Reverend Michele Dante officiating. A reception/visitation will follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial gifts be made to the Maria K. Bachman Humanities Collections Endowment with UTK Foundation Libraries giving.utk.edu/mariabachman. Online condolences may be made at rosefuneraltn.com.

Tributes

Dr. Maria K. Bachman

December 13, 1963 - November 20, 2022