Edna Louise Fritts, whom most people knew simply as Teddy, was born to eternal life this evening just days after learning she had lung cancer. There was very little time to say goodbye to this wonderful woman who touched so many lives as a nurse and a teacher's aide and as a church volunteer. She was a friend to pretty much everyone she met. She was famous though not only for her warmth and generousity of spirit, but also for her huge collection of teddy bears.
I know this blog is NOT about me - it is really about giving back and making a difference - that pretty much sums up who Teddy Fritts was. Teddy Fritts really did make a difference! This blog would never have happened were it not for her. Teddy Fritts was my mother.
Although she was born in New York State, she traveled around the country and it was always important to her to be near my sister and I. She had in fact just moved to California at the end of last year to be nearer to me.
Mom, the olderst of five children, was preceded in death by her parents and all of her siblings. A funeral mass will be held at Advent of Christ the King, San Francisco at 11am on Saturday, April 20. Memorial donations can be made to Good Bears of the World (a non profit organization which provides teddy bears to children of all ages and to lonely senior citizens), to the American Cancer Society, or to Saint Edmund's Episcopal Church in Pacifica, CA.
Writing this tonight is the hardest thing I have ever done. The days ahead I know will be difficult ones for me and my sister. I'm going to miss her so much. Thank you for giving me life Mom and for always believing in me and my sister. Thanks for making a difference!
Although she was born in New York State, she traveled around the country and it was always important to her to be near my sister and I. She had in fact just moved to California at the end of last year to be nearer to me.
Mom, the olderst of five children, was preceded in death by her parents and all of her siblings. A funeral mass will be held at Advent of Christ the King, San Francisco at 11am on Saturday, April 20. Memorial donations can be made to Good Bears of the World (a non profit organization which provides teddy bears to children of all ages and to lonely senior citizens), to the American Cancer Society, or to Saint Edmund's Episcopal Church in Pacifica, CA.
Writing this tonight is the hardest thing I have ever done. The days ahead I know will be difficult ones for me and my sister. I'm going to miss her so much. Thank you for giving me life Mom and for always believing in me and my sister. Thanks for making a difference!
May she rest in peace and rise in glory, Michael.
ReplyDeleteBlessings on you, Michael ... I know having her close meant a LOT these last couple of months. You are a good, good son.
ReplyDeleteMichael, prayers for your mom and you and your sister. Please do take care of yourself (Noel)
ReplyDeleteWhat wonderful children Teddy had. You both loved her so much and always will. Sending lots of love to you and your sister, Michael.
ReplyDeletefrom Dodie Antal and family:
ReplyDeleteI met your lovely mom back in 1979 when I was a college student living across the street from her in upstate NY. She was my awesome Avon Lady & the sweetest neighbor ever! Even though both of us have moved numerous times since then, we have always kept in touch - mostly through letters & pictures. My 2 children never got to meet Teddy, but they both felt as if they knew her, too. Terry & Mike, she always, ALWAYS talked about the two of you, and it was obvious that you were both the light of her life. I'll never forget the time she was planning a trip to San Francisco to see you, Mike, and she was so excited, her suitcase was packed and ready to go 2 weeks before her trip! Terry, I have to let you know what an inspiration YOU WERE to ME, for always taking care of your mom through all those moves and just being there for her. She was a compassionate and generous lady, & she has passed on those wonderful traits to you. Teddy will always have a place in my heart. Sending our love and prayers your way....
Your mother seems like a wonderful person. I wish I could have met her, but I'm sure much of her lives within you and your sister.
ReplyDeleteMy sister and I had an incredible mother. She was the very definition of love. She (and we) are also fortunate to have such incredible friends. Thank you all for your love, prayers, and words of comfort!
ReplyDeleteShe forgave my every failure with a generous and persistent heart. - scott
ReplyDelete