"I have only slipped away into the next room.
I am I, and you are you.
Whatever we were to each other, that we still are......
Laugh as we always laughed at the little jokes we enjoyed together.
Play, smile, think of me, pray for me."
–Henry Scott Holland, Professor of Divinity, Oxford Univ.
Celebrating the Life
of
Edith Spalding
Prelude
Words of Grace
*Hymn "The Church in the Wildwood"
Opening Prayer
First Scripture Reading Psalm 23
New Testament Reading John 14:1-4
Hymn #147 "All Things Bright and Beautiful" Sharing Memories
Closing Prayer
*Closing Hymn #378 "Amazing Grace" (vs. 1-3, 6)
*Benediction
* Please stand as you are able.
The family of Edith Spalding wishes to express their
appreciation for your outpouring of love, prayers and
support through this difficult time. You are invited to
join the family and friends in the multi-purpose room
following the service.
Edith W. Spalding
July 7, 1923 - April 4, 2018
Edith W. Spalding, 94, passed away peacefully at her home in Great Falls, VA on Wednesday, April 4, 2018, surrounded by her loving family. Born into a military family on July 7, 1923 in Denver, CO, Edith and her sisters, Robin and Katharine, spent their childhood traveling and living in new locations including (military posts) in Wyoming, Oklahoma, Georgia, Kansas, Maryland, the District of Columbia, and the Philippines. Her college education was Math at Colorado College and Animal Husbandry at Texas Tech.
Always interested in nature and wildlife, she frequently raised orphaned animals and other pets that had a lot of character, including a crow that would escort her to and from grade school. Her way with animals came in handy later when she had to move "Slim" the blacksnake with a broom, so the electrician would agree to repair the basement electrical panel. After marrying Maj. Gen. Sidney P. Spalding in 1945, Edith raised nine children and helped her husband run a dairy farm in Fairfax County. In addition to raising a family, farming, tending a garden, and a number of other activities, she was able to find time for photography which included developing and printing her own photos in the cellar darkroom. Embracing the latest technology even in her 90's, she could often be found at her computer sending emails or using Photoshop. She was an accomplished artist and musician.
Through her long and full life, she was known for her warmth, welcoming spirit, and radiant smile. She was adored by 9 children, 22 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren who will continue her legacy.
Do Not Stand at My Grave and Weep
Do not stand at my grave and weep,
I am not there. I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow,
I am the diamond glints on snow,
I am the sunlight on ripened grain,
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning's hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry;
I am not there. I did not die.
–Mary Elizabeth Frye
A service is scheduled for 11:00 am on Saturday, April 14, 2018 at the Galilee Church, 45425 Winding Road, Sterling, Virginia 20165.
Flowers will be accepted at the Galilee Methodist Church between 9:00 am and 3:00 pm on Friday, April 13, 2018