Tuesday, December 2, 2008

Beebe Moss: Remembering

I knew her better as 'Mom,' a name she didn't mind my using. She wasn't technically mine -- she was Ami's.

Ami Simms, someone I've been proud to call a friend, lost her mother, Beebe Moss, last Saturday, November 29. But it was actually the end to Beebe's 7-year struggle with Alzheimer's. Beebe remained herself to the end... but in most ways, she had already quietly shut the door on her world some time ago.

Beebe shared her life with many people. She was peppery, vibrant and full of comments on everything imaginable. I spent an afternoon or two painting with her, talking about animals and quilts and techniques. Her cards and paintings were folk art swirled in bright colors, full of African and other influences.

She didn't mind popping off with whatever was on her mind -- right now. The effect was astonishing at times -- refreshing at others. She generously shared herself with family and friends. Whatever else she was -- she was herself.

I will miss her.

Share your thoughts with Ami through her blog:

http://amisimms.wordpress.com/2008/11/29/her-name-was-beebe/

Beebe Moss of Flint, Michigan, age 85, died on Saturday, November 29, 2008, at Genesys Hospice Care Center after a 7-year battle with Alzheimer's disease. The family has requested memorial contributions to the Alzheimer's Art Quilt Initiative (www.AlzQuilts.org) in lieu of flowers: 1200 Creekwood Trail / Burton, MI 48509.

Beebe was born May 18, 1923 in Detroit, Michigan, the daughter of William and Jennie (Medvedov) Gottesman. She and Dr. Leonard W. Moss (deceased) were married in 1945.

Beebe leaves daughter Ami and husband Steve Simms; granddaughter Jennie Simms; brother Bud and wife Elaine Gottesman; nieces Simm Gottesman-Tessler and husband Doug; Kim and husband Ted Noble; Niki Gottesman; Mindy Reed; cousins Blanche Borenstein, RubyJean and Richard Gould, Sandy and Rodney Landsman; and friends Eva Boros, Joyce Christensen, and Joanne Malcolm to cherish her memory.

Friends may share with the family online at www.amisimms.wordpress.com/

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