Ambassador Frank E. Baxter and Kathy Baxter at LACMA’s 50th Anniversary Gala, photo by Charley Gallay/Getty Images for LACMA

In Memoriam: Frank E. Baxter (1936–2025)

August 1, 2025

LACMA is deeply saddened by the recent passing of life trustee Frank E. Baxter, whose many years of dedicated service on LACMA’s board was just one of many ways he contributed to improving the lives of the people of Los Angeles.

Ambassador Baxter joined LACMA’s board of trustees in 2000, and played an integral part in planning the expansion and transformation of LACMA’s campus, which is now complete. Ambassador Baxter and his wife, Kathy, were also major supporters of LACMA’s education programs, reflecting their lifelong commitment to creating a better future for the youth of Los Angeles. The Baxters were also generous donors to LACMA’s collection, often participating in the annual Collector’s Committee weekend to help the museum acquire works of art.

“I will always be grateful for Frank’s wisdom and guidance, which were invaluable in navigating my earliest years in Los Angeles,” said LACMA CEO and Wallis Annenberg Director Michael Govan. “We were so lucky to have Frank’s sage counsel as we planned the complex, multi-phase project to enhance the visitor experience of LACMA. None of what we have achieved would be possible without Frank, and we’ll sorely miss his generosity and kindness.”

A native of California, Ambassador Baxter lived in the Pacific Palisades for more than 30 years and worked tirelessly with civic institutions and initiatives that enriched the lives of Angelenos, especially those that help young people achieve their education and career goals.

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