21 Comments

Thanks for introducing me to Aunt Poppy. She is wonderful. Those sad, anxious hours you spent at her bedside helped shape a beautiful tribute. Your words remind us to share and honor love. Blessings.

Expand full comment

Your words mean so much to me. Thank you, Mike.

Expand full comment

Loved it! Thanks for sharing!

Expand full comment

What a lovely tribute, Phoebe. I know you stayed with her at the end, and I am sure that comforted her. The report cards and photos added to the story. I will donate a book in her memory.

Expand full comment

I learned from the sweet librarian that they plan to book bookplates in the books given in her name. My God, but I can’t imagine anything that would make her happier. She often recommended banned books. xox

Expand full comment

Another great one Phoebe, thanks

Expand full comment

Aunt Poppy and my Aunt Sally were two peas on a pod. Both second grade teachers, readers and proudly independent. Lovely tribute to the unforgettable Aunt Polly.

Expand full comment

A toast to your Aunt Sally.

Amazing teachers have shaped the lives of America’s children.

xo

Expand full comment

Thank you for sharing Aunt Poppy with us, Phoebe. She was something!

Dear Aunt Poppy, Rest In Peace.

Expand full comment

The response from readers has been overwhelming and beautiful. I didn’t know if a piece about a 96yo woman who lived a quiet life would connect in this fast-paced world. It has. xo

Expand full comment

A beautiful story. And what a great lady to continue to learn and take care of herself and even get a personal trainer! How wonderful that she was such an inspiration to you and that you were there for her.

Expand full comment

Sounds like an amazing & feisty woman! Thx for sharing.

Expand full comment

Thank you for reading, Tim.

I never use the word “feisty” but it absolutely applies.

Expand full comment

What an amazing person! Your aunt was a treasure to you. Who knows how many countless second grade children grew up and to this day owe her a debt for the love of reading and writing (and life) she gave to them. Maybe she knew about some, and many no doubt remember their remarkable teacher. Others, went on about their lives and vaguely think of a wonderful woman when they do something nice for a child. In all of them, her gifts continue to weave into the lives of others and so she lives on. I love your tribute to her. She comes alive in it and in your love for her. Please accept my condolences for you and your family.

Expand full comment

Dear Virginia, I am going to share your note with the librarian who is selecting books — for children and adults — being donated in Aunt Poppy’s memory. Your note reminds us all that every moment matters. xo

Expand full comment

Such a sweet way to honor an incredible woman.

Expand full comment

Thank you, Jules.

I think I’m out of tears.

Expand full comment

Phoebe, this is a very nice tribute article for your dear aunt Poppy. Reading about her love for reading and kids, gratitude for the Goodfellows, graduating from Pershing HS, having been treated kindly by the two Detroit Police officers, and listening to Perry Como brought back many fond memories to me. I had some of the same experiences growing up in the Detroit housing projects on Buffalo and Charles St. when I attended White Elementary and Cleveland Jr. High (which is a DPS middle school where students would go onto Pershing). Take care.

Expand full comment

Shared memories bring us closer together. #Detroit

Expand full comment

It is so refreshing to read such a piece about a person who represented so many good things about humanity.

And of course by writing about Aunt Poppy, you helped continue that beautiful legacy. Thank you!

Expand full comment

What a beautiful story. I’m so glad I got to know about your aunt. A remarkable woman.

Expand full comment