Obituary

Edith J. “Edie” Anderson, 91, of Rockford, died Saturday, January 28, 2023, amidst her loving family. Born July 20, 1931, in Chicago-Evergreen Park, daughter of Stanley G. and Beatrice J. “Betty” (Johnson) Heidenrich.

Edie graduated from Chicago High School – Morgan Park in 1949. She studied at Grinnell College (Iowa), transferred to Michigan State College, joined Delta Gamma sorority, and graduated from Michigan State College (University) in 1953 with a B.A. in Speech Correction. Certified to teach in Michigan, Illinois, and Texas, she taught speech therapy in multiple Illinois school districts, and in Texas as a Teacher of Exceptional Children-Temporary Speech and Hearing.

She married Theodore W. “Ted” Anderson in 1955, and lovingly shared her life with him. Upon starting their family, she left teaching and proudly committed herself, full-time, to all the demanding, deeply appreciated endeavors of being an exemplary mother and homemaker.

Survivors include sons Jeffrey, David (Michelle), and Scott (Suzanne); grandchildren Michael, Matthew, Jonathan, and Jacob; one sister-in-law, multiple nieces and nephews, and several life-long friends.

Predeceased by her husband, parents, sister Mary A. (Jack) Sward, brother-in-law Dr. David G. Anderson, one nephew, and many dear friends.

She was a person of strong faith, equally strong will and determination, remarkably moral character, exceptional integrity, good humor, and a compassionate ear; we are truly saddened her wonderful smile and vivacious demeanor will now warm our hearts only through memories. As a wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, niece, aunt, cousin, and friend, she indeed had a truly full and blessed life. As such, spending time with her has blessed us as well.

A private interment and gathering to celebrate her life will be held at a later time.

Edie lived by the Golden Rule.

When remembering her, “pay it forward” with a smile and acts of kindness.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the charity of your choice, in Edie’s memory