| In 1918, as the Great War drew to a close, there was born a
beautiful little girl, whose family was unable to care for her. She spent some
of her girlhood in the Hebrew Orphan's Home. At an age when other girls were
having their Bas Mitzvah ceremonies, she took a name from a bottle of
wine, and went on the stage at Minsky's.
Through many heartaches, she struggled to better not only her own lot, but that
of others. At age twenty-five, President Franklin Roosevelt made her an honorary
Brigadier General for volunteer work with soldiers during the second World War.
By her forty-fifth year, she had starred in thirty-nine plays, and fourteen
musicals. This was certainly a grand record for anyone, but never one to rest on
her laurels, she went on working and also forged a wonderful thirty year
marriage.
Was that enough? Not for her. At sixty-three, she graduated Magna Cum Laude from
Fordham.
This dear lady never had children of her body, but there certainly have been
many of her spirit. She has been a constant benefactor of the institution in
which she spent some of her childhood, and a loving influence on the lives of
many younger relations. Whenever a hug or caring ear has been needed, she has
not failed.
In this month of Thanksgiving, I am grateful to be one of those blessed by her
generous heart. One of my most precious memories is hearing her say, "I love
you," something which had never been said to me by any other family member.
My dear cousin's glamour name is Sherry Britton. Born Edith Celia Britton, she
has never forgotten her own early days, and has been a source of infinite
affection and inspiration to other who might be in need of kindness.
Yes, she was a lovely pinup girl, but her beauty is for all year and times. I am
ever thankful for her smile.
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