Marguerite Shearer, M.D., a leader in the medical community and a cherished member of her family, passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by family and friends on February 6th. Born on June 1st, 1932, in Detroit, to Clara Violet (Englehardt) Raft and George Raft, Marguerite was smart, independent, and fun-loving. She received a full scholarship to Michigan State University, and went on to put herself through medical school at the University of Michigan, where she was one of 8 women in her graduating class.
In a medical school cafeteria, she caught the eye of Dr. Marshall Shearer. He made sure to meet her and after some time was able to convince her that his love for her was large enough to include her love for large dogs and horses. Their deeply devoted partnership lasted 54 years and inspired many. Together they raised 3 children, Millie (Shearer) Gross, Chrissie Shearer and Tom Shearer and made their home in Dexter, Michigan. She is survived by her children, son-in-law Jonathan Gross, daughter-in-law Stacy Shearer, and grandchildren Sydney and Grant Shearer.
Dr. Shearer was a rural family physician not only respected for her clinical skills but also appreciated for her kindness and the compassionate care she provided. With her husband, Marshall, Dr. Shearer was recruited by Masters & Johnson and for two years collaborated with them. The Drs. Shearer wrote for the Detroit Free Press, authoring a weekly article on sex that became nationally syndicated, reflecting their dedication to public health and education. They also wrote 3 books: Rapping About Sex; Sex, Frankly; and Maximizing Happiness Through Intimate Communication.
She was the one of the first women delegates to the American Medical Association and was the first woman serve on the board of Michigan State Medical Society (MSMS). She built a medical clinic for family practice on North Territorial Road and throughout her career was deeply interested in how more people might be better served. After leaving private practice, she went on to become the medical director of Care Choices where she worked with physician practices to ensure quality of care measures and establish parameters justifying medical costs. Marguerite was highly active in politics, testifying often on behalf of MSMS as well as the Michigan Association of Health Plans.
Upon retirement she had fun in quilting, bridge and book clubs, as well as conducting years-long research into great breakfast spots. Known for the warmth, wit, and wisdom she brought to every gathering, she will be profoundly missed by her family, colleagues, former patients, and friends whose lives are better for having known her.
A memorial service to celebrate Dr. Shearer’s remarkable life and contributions will be held on June 15th, at the First Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Ann Arbor. In lieu of flowers, donations will support the AEI Sorority Family Medicine Scholarship Fund at the University of Michigan, a cause very close to Marguerite’s heart. You can call 734-764-6777 for more information or visit the following link to make your gift https://victors.us/margueriteshearer
Dr. Marguerite Shearer’s passing is a great loss to all who knew her, but her spirit, dedication, and the differences she made will forever be remembered.
