Louise Edmonds

Louise A. Edmonds, 92 years of age, died Wednesday, Dec. 16, 2009, at her daughter's home in Grassy, Mo.

She was born Dec. 24, 1916, in Horine, Mo., the daughter of Jules Ernst and Lydia Rapp Washer.

She moved to Cape Girardeau in 1932 and attended Southeast Missouri State University. She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church and an active PTA member of Trinity Lutheran School. From 1958 to 1962, Louise was a chaperone at the very popular Teen Town, where she become a "second mom" to hundreds.

Louise was a gifted pianist and writer who loved expression through music. Gershwin's "Rhapsody in Blue" was her favorite composition, which in many ways personified her life. She was an avid bridge player who not only mastered the game but the art of conversation and friendship as well. Louise also wrote beautiful prose and made a habit of writing birthday poems for her children and grandchildren.

Louise was an incredible woman who embodied the definition of class and grace. She had a way of loving people for themselves and touched the lives of thousands.

Although very accomplished, her family was the center of her life, which was evident by her unfailing sacrifice and love. She was a devoted mother of five children, J.J. Edmonds, Sally Passe, Sarah Freeman, Lydia (Bill) Turner and Matthew (Brenda) Edmonds. She was also blessed with 13 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren, and had a way of developing a special relationship with each one.

Special appreciation and gratitude is given to Bill Turner for his love, sacrifice and caregiving.

Visitation will be from 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesday at Ford and Sons Mount Auburn Funeral home in Cape Girardeau.

A family memorial service will be held at a later date.

Online condolences may be made to the family at www.fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.