RIP Annie Drew Spaeth aka Mama Drew, 1948 - 2019

Today in Heartside Park a memorial service was scheduled for Drew, but neither the person who planned the service nor the community at large showed up. So although it was a small group it was wonderful to get together with some people I haven't seen in years.

Chaplain Viola, who worked at Heartside Ministry about 9 years ago, came to run the service. The day was chilly but we waited half an hour for others to show up and then called it at 3pm. Viola gathered us in a circle and recruited a few others who were hanging around in the picnic shelter. And she prayed eloquently, remembering Drew and her family. Her prayer concluded with: "And we pray for the President. We don't want to but we do." We all laughed as we prayed.

It was a short but sweet service held under art created by many Heartside artists.

Keith brought two purple heart balloons and even though they sailed away prematurely, we still said goodbye to Drew when they went.

Drew was a big part of Heartside Ministry for many years and was a regular volunteer. She enjoyed keeping people in line and took no guff from anyone, ever.

She had a huge heart and loved the Heartside neighborhood, and it loved her back. Here she is on one of her birthdays.

Here at a Heartside Ministry volunteer lunch.

She never missed a party at Heartside.

Some comments I received from former Heartside employees who knew her discussed her smooth fashion, her red hair, cut close, and her bright smile. She had a heart of gold but took no b.s. from anyone. And I think that's as good a summary as any.

It was a pleasure to have known you, Drew, and it was my honor to be part of your memorial service at Heartside Park today. RIP 💗