It was with great sadness that we heard about the death of Anne Yedowitz, aged 98. She was the backbone of SI at UN at New York for over 20 years, only giving up her duties there in 2009. She will be remembered for her strong commitment to Soroptimist International, her clear thinking and her deep understanding of the issues which affect women and girls all over the world.

Here are some memories from a few of her many Soroptimist friends. If you wish to share a memory, please do email hq@soroptimistinternational.org. A full obituary will appear in the June issue of TIS.

"In 1991 I was sharing my excitement about attending my second International Convention with Del Laine, founder of the Soroptimist Legislative Workshop. Del, told me that I must meet a very important woman in Nottingham- named Anne Yedowitz- " She has done more for Soroptimist than any of our leaders." This perception was affirmed by Patsy Daniels… Needless to say, I had to meet this woman if two of my mentors honored her so highly. There- in Nottingham- my journey of admiration and mentorship began with this feisty, straight forward Yonkers- New York lady- and opened my eyes to the potential of Soroptimists in really being part of change and affecting the human condition for woman and children.

Anne immediately described issues of inequity for women and never waiivered from our crucial product being programme! Anne talked about women’s place at the table of every decision affecting them. She talked about having a voice,  and making our work count! Anne’s "no nonsense" style helped pave OUR way from being observers in the NGO Arena in the UN community to be viewed as leaders and facilitators.

Anne had a million stories, and you rarely heard the same one twice. Anne played as hard as she worked and everyone that knew her can lovingly smile at the great sharing times we had together, especially when we sang silly camp songs at the top of our lungs. Anne reminds me that we are so blessed to stand on the shoulders of Soroptimist leaders- not just those we have elected- but women like Anne who tirelessly and continuously held their membership and commitment to the work we do as their standard of operation. Anne was 98 years old….. and 30 years young in her drive and compassion and love of SI. She is forever in my heart!"

Dawn Marie Lemonds, SI IPD

"We will all have our special memories of Anne –  precious to us, and I feel that at this time memories should be shared as we celebrate her life and achievements. For me, I will always remember the first time I heard her speak at our Federation Conference.   Little did I realise so long ago, that I would eventually come to know her personally and look forward to her Christmas Card each year… I was thrilled to receive an invitation from her family to attend her surprise 90th birthday celebrations but was not able to attend. However, I circulated the date of Anne’s 90th birthday, and through Chat Liners and their clubs etc., Anne received hundreds of cards from all over the world. She found it incredible that she should be remembered and celebrated in that manner.”

Kate Moore

“In my twelve years 1995/2007 as an International Programme Co-ordinator, International Programme Liaison and as International Assistant Programme Director I was very privileged to attend many sessions at the UN  in New York and was proud to be regarded by Anne and her sister reps as an ‘adopted New York gal’.   To see and to hear the manner in which she was regarded in the UN was a tribute not only to Anne but to Soroptimist International. A wonderful role model for us all.  We had some great times at Board meetings too and after the business was completed she liked nothing better than to enjoy a glass of whisky and to sing the SIGBI anthem devised by Elizabeth Hughes, –  the Soroptimist Eating Song. I can hear her now. God bless you Anne.”

Margaret Alderson

“This photo of Anne (above) was taken in Glasgow in 2004.   She was such an amazing woman.  We became very good friends over the many years. I was constantly amazed by her ability to sit in a UN meeting, make very few notes and yet write a report of such clarity and purpose.  I struggled to take notes and she just absorbed it.  I just can’t imagine a Soroptimist presence at the UN without her.  She was known by everyone and highly respected.  She brought such prestige to Soroptimist by her very presence.”

Lois Sagel

"Anne will remain an inspiration in the lives of every Soroptimist who had the pleasure of meeting and talking with her. When I visited her at her home in Yonkers in February this year her wit and humour were as sharp as ever as was her insatiable appetite to know what was happening at CSW. She was delighted to hear about the launch of UN Women. Needless to say, the hospitality flowed as ever!"

Ann Dawson

"Anne was a great representative for Soroptimists at the United Nations in New York. She never lost an opportunity to encourage Soroptimist members all over the world to have an international vision. She loved life and I will remember her mischevious smile and dry sense of humour. She was also an encourager of others, especially as they sought to learn and serve in the UN and Soroptimism in general. She will be missed."

Margaret Cook, SI IAPD