Posted on 07/30/2004 3:47:34 PM PDT by demlosers
Loved Ones Asked To Donate To Democratic Cause
MIAMI BEACH, Fla. -- A South Florida woman who died this week had an unusual last request. Instead of flower or contributions in her name to a charity, she asked those who loved her to try to make sure President George W. Bush is not re-elected.
Loved ones said that Joan Abbey was committed to her political passions, even in death.
Abbey was born in Montreal, but lived for many years in Miami Beach and Aventura. Family and friends came from as far away as Canada and California to remember Abbey at the Mount Nebo Jewish Cemetery in Miami.
Abbey, who was a lifelong Democrat, died Monday -- coincidentally on the first day of the Democratic National Convention.
Her sister, Tillie Shapiro, said, "She was just a caring person She cared about people, and people who were disadvantaged."
Abbey was buried the day after the Democratic convention ended. Her unusual death notice in the Miami Herald said: "You can honor Joan's values by voting against George Bush and contributing to a liberal or Democratic cause."
Abbey's nephew, Martin Shapiro, said, "What she cared most about was improving circumstances in this country... getting rid of George Bush and making this a better country for all people."
Coincidentally, the presiding rabbi, Brett Goldstein, is a registered Democrat but is voting for Bush, and he questioned the timing of Abbey's message at such a sensitive time.
"My contention is that if there's any situation that's sacrosanct, it should be devoid of political ramifications," Goldstein said. "Although people have the opportunity and they can do it if they want to, it is not really appropriate at this time."
Shapiro said, "It was her (Abbey's) essence. It was her core value to try to see this country become a better place and become a more just society. And I think that was the last word she'd want to leave."
Abbey did not want her age known. Many friends said she remained forever young in spirit and staunchly committed to her beliefs.
...and we thought their lack of perspective had limits.
How sad. So much for world peace.
Prayers for your brother. Terminal cancer and he still makes time to do something so good for such a good person as President Bush. He (your brother) sounds like a kind and loving person. "He ain't heavy....he's my brother."
God bless.
How is this news? An old lady originally from Canada moves to Florida and gets to have her dying political wish broadcast around the world? Journalism at its finest.
She could have still voted if she lived in Chicago.
Didn't watch the convention this week?
What a rotten idea....I think I'll do it too *snicker*
I hope if I am blessed long enough to make a dying wish it will be more meaningful than that.
Yes I did. My comment was in general, not specifically dircted at the dying woman.
Certainly in Chicago, she will...
You are not alone, I totally agree.
Finally, another Democrat off the public dole!
Good riddance to bad rubbish.
Lord bless him.
LOL!!!!
But no mention of her being an American citizen.
I wonder if she voted in the last election?
How could this be checked?
And how can her citizenship status be checked?
Good point. (IF the family doesn't decide to let the dole payments continue.)
My God. These people only exist to hate the country and the president. It's like food and drink to them.
I know. I was having a bit of fun with ya.
Is Kerry giving himself the bird in that picture?
She'll get her wish ... in 2008.
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