In Memoriam

 

KATHRYN IRENE WATSON

September 23, 1961 - January 28, 2009

 

On January 28, Jody Shevin conveyed the sad news to us that Kathy Watson had died that morning.  Jody has sent this comforting poem that appeared in the program at Kathy’s funeral.

 

 

God saw that she was getting tired,       Although we couldn't bear to lose her,

And a cure was not to be,                     We could not bid her stay.

So He put His arms around her              A golden heart stopped beating,

And whispered, "Come with Me."           Hard-working hands were laid to rest; 

With tearful eyes we watched                God broke our hearts to prove to us -

her suffer and saw her fade away           He only takes the best.

 

 

Memories of Kathy

By now, many of you are aware of the death of our fellow branch member, Kathy Watson. She was a beloved friend to many of us and an invaluable asset to our organization. She will be sorely missed. Kathy preferred to work behind the scenes, so many of you may not realize the hours of service that she gave to AAUW. She was assistant-in-chief to Jody Shevin, for many years, on fundraising projects. She assisted me on all of the brochures, announcements, and flyers when I was Program V.P. for the branch. She was a founding member of Cuisine Cruising and Chix Flix and was always available to provide a delicious dish or a beautifully designed piece of paperwork for any occasion in our branch. More importantly, she always was a liberal dispenser of smiles, compliments, and encouragement. Kathy had a kind heart that embraced those in difficulty.

 

In 2005, Kathy and Jody ran the hospitality room for our state AAUW convention. They got to know one of the recipients of our Legal Advocacy Fund (LAF) funds, Charlotte McMahon, Ph.D., at this event. Kathy was very impressed with Dr. McMahon and encouraged Rochester Branch members to donate to LAF as a result. Kathy also was a supporter of education for women and felt, based on her own experience, that women needed the ability to support themselves.

 

I ask you to join me in honoring Kathy's memory by contributing to one or more of the tax exempt AAUW contribution options, in her name. Gifts to the Local Scholarship Fund can be mailed to Beverly Paurazas at 700 Allston Drive, RH 48309. Make checks payable to: Greater Rochester Area Community Foundation – AAUW Scholarship.

 

Contributions to the Educational Foundation (EF), or the Legal Advocacy Fund (LAF), can be sent to Kim Enders at 56859 Aberdeen Shelby Twp., 48316. Enclose a note or use the note space on the check to specify that your contribution is being made in honor of Kathy Watson. Make the checks payable to: AAUW - Educational Foundation, or AAUW – Legal Advocacy Fund. Your memorial contribution will be a nice way to help Kathy's legacy live on, although we will continue to miss her.                                                                                                                                   --Rebecca Oetjens