The Birmingham community, the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), and countless people across the Deep South and beyond are mourning the tragic and untimely loss of Dr. Latesha Elopre, a revered physician, advocate, educator, and beloved mother, wife, and friend.
Dr. Elopre, 43, passed away recently, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy defined by service, compassion, and determination. Dr. Elopre held many roles in her life—Associate Professor of Infectious Diseases at UAB, Assistant Dean for Access and Engagement for Resident/Fellow Experience, mentor, national thought leader, and community champion.
But those titles only begin to scratch the surface of who she was. Known for her sharp intellect, deep empathy, and relentless pursuit of health equity, Dr. Elopre devoted her life to addressing disparities in HIV care and prevention, particularly among underserved populations in the Deep South.
Her work focused on improving access to care for marginalized communities, especially women, African Americans, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those living in rural areas.
She was nationally recognized not only for her scientific contributions but also for her fierce advocacy and ability to connect with others on a human level. A trailblazer in both research and public health outreach, she never hesitated to speak truth to power, even while maintaining a warm, humble presence that endeared her to all.
But perhaps the most inspiring aspect of Dr. Elopre’s life was the deep love she carried for her family. She was a devoted wife to her husband, Chris, and the loving mother of their two young children, Jacob (13) and Gigi (8). Her eyes would light up when speaking about her kids, and she poured the same heart into motherhood that she did into her professional work.
Those closest to her remember Dr. Elopre not just as a brilliant academic and a dedicated physician, but as someone who led with empathy, humor, and authenticity.
Whether advocating for HIV prevention (including her famous lighthearted but passionate promotion of personal lubricants in prevention strategies) or mentoring young doctors and community members, Latesha was present, engaged, and invested. She saw the humanity in every person she met—and made them feel seen in return.
One friend wrote in tribute:
“Praying for your family, Latesha Elopre, and all who knew and loved you. Over the last 4-5 years of knowing you, you went from a doctor on a study I was invited to be on the CAB of to a dear friend.
I called you Little Genius in my head every time I thought of you. You were a soft-spoken, driven, little bitty woman with a genuine smile and big purpose, who showed me I had a voice and value. This just doesn’t make sense. 43. This just doesn’t make sense… Rest well ‘Little Genius.’”
As the medical community mourns, many have shared stories of how Dr. Elopre changed lives—not only through treatment and research but through her presence, mentorship, and the fearless way she stood up for others. At UAB, she inspired the next generation of healthcare leaders with her passion and conviction.
For her patients, she was a voice of hope and strength. For her colleagues, she was a guiding star. Dr. Latesha Elopre’s loss is deeply felt and will be long remembered.
Her contributions to medicine, public health, and equity will echo for generations. But above all, she will be remembered as someone who loved deeply, gave selflessly, and made the world a better place—one patient, one student, one community at a time.
May her soul rest in peace, and may her family find strength and comfort in the boundless love she shared.
