That’s what the TV reporter said as he read a list of those killed in last week’s tragic shootings at an appearance by Rep. Gabrielle Giffords in Tucson, Arizona.
“Phyllis Schneck, quilter.”
As the reporter read her name, her picture appeared on the screen. It was the smiling face of the 79-year-old-grandmother and great grandmother.
I like millions of other North Americans, never met Phyllis Schneck but feel I know her just a bit. She sounds like so many women in the quilting world who value the art of hand-crafted items and are willing to give many hours to make beautiful things for others –even folks they’ve never met. I bet she had a great stash of fabric, a lovely little sewing area in her home and had put a smile on many faces through her life as a quilter. I picture her being just a tiny bit like my Mom, eager to share a technique learned at a Women's Institute meeting, delighted to chat about a project that you've taken on, pushing fabric into plastic bags as you go through the door, "Here take this. I'll never live long enough to use it."
I wonder what would be said about any of us if our passing was ever noteworthy enough to be announced on TV. Retired teacher? Mother and Wife? Grumpy old woman? Quilter? All of the above? Maybe it won't get mentioned in my obituary but maybe oneof you out there who are out there reading this might be able to persuade the powers that be, to include the line, "We regretfully announce the passing of a crafty old woman..."
Now THAT would make me smile!
R.I.P Phyllis Schneck. And when you get to heaven, there's another Phyllis there you can sit and talk quilting with. Cuz I sure miss my chats with my momma.
Here's a picture of Mom with the three precious granddaughters, Erin, Valerie and Heather. Hoping at least one of them continues the quilting traditions that she inspired in all three of her daughters!
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