A Tribute to Sarah Christine Fredericks

December 25, 1952 – January 2, 2021

My Love Always for Sarah Fredericks….

My love for you began in Brandywine, Maryland when I was a single mom in a new home with two young boys… in desperate need of direction and perspective. However, you frequently reminded me that your love for me began when you traveled to visit Uncle Mickey in Flushing 43 years ago upon hearing that your best friends had given birth to a girl named Elizabeth. Reuniting with you in Maryland was truly serendipitous in every way – though you had known me my entire life through your friendship with my parents, I quickly came to realize that God sent you and your love at a time when I was most in need - when I was most unsure about myself and my abilities. And just like the angel you are, you appeared and immediately put it all in perspective for me - Like only you could. You became my cheerleader, my confidant, my partner in (good) crime ? and my comedian when I couldn’t find my own smile. When Dementia robbed me of my mother, without hesitation you immediately stepped in for your sister…being the mom that I needed and the grandma that the boys needed. Through your living examples and fervent prayers on my behalf, you strengthened my faith in God and directed me closer to Him. Evangelizing the Word of God daily within my life and the life of others.

I can never thank you enough for what you have done for me. I can never repay all the sacrifices you made to be present at all the many milestones in my life. There are never enough thanks for treating and loving me as your very own daughter. I was in Maryland by myself, but indeed I wasn’t alone. God had sent His love to me through someone very close to His heart. Unknown to me, when dementia started to take my mom, she kept telling me that I needed to stay close to you and listen to you. I know now that she realized she wouldn’t be here for me and you were the only one she could entrust her daughter to. She loves you so much. I can’t bring myself to tell her that you have gone home.

There were so many things that I wanted to say to you. In all, I just hope you know just how very much I love you and how much you mean to me. I will miss your infectious smile, laugh and jubilant spirit. One of my most favorite memories of you is the time you came to Atlanta to accompany me to my 6th eye surgery. After the surgery, I was in pain and eager to get home and you were driving me home from Emory Hospital. To my surprise, you were driving WAY UNDER the 55 mph speed limit and in no particular rush to get me home. When I gave my objection and asked you to speed up, you responded with a “classic Sarah” response and said “You shut YOU mouth and be quiet!” followed by your infectious laugh – of which all I could do was laugh right along with you - and endure my 30 mph ride home listening to you sing along to the radio. LOL

I miss you Mommy and I know I will see your beautiful soul once again. I can’t imagine God blessing me with such a love and not letting me experience it again. You gave so much love to so many people. Thank you for choosing me to share in that love. I can only hope that you felt the love that I so reciprocate for you. Thank you for introducing me to so many beautiful people that I will always hold dear. I am so glad that you are pain and worry free. Glory be to God our Father. I hope the angels delivered my goodbye message to you.

Your daughter in Love - EJ