Beatrice Sheedy

Beatrice Louise Tryphena Sheedy, 94, whose ancestors came to Austin in covered wagons, died Friday, August 13, surrounded by loved ones. She had lived at home independently until shortly before her death. Beatrice was born at Silver Springs Farm outside Austin, September 24, 1915, to Raymond and Leah Furtney. She graduated at 17 from Teachers' College and taught in a one room school house. Her first class was composed of nine "big" farm boys. She married Richard Sheedy on June 30, 1937 and helped him and his brothers, Robert and Edward, farm and operate Sheedy Brothers Dairy. They had five daughters. She was a life long member of St. Augustine and St. Edwards Catholic churches and a Red Cross volunteer. Throughout her life, Beatrice brightened the lives of all who came in contact with her. She was an extraordinary mother, a wife whose husband referred to her as "my angel," a faithful, funny friend and a neighbor who created a sense of community and inclusion. Her kindness was legendary. Survivors include five daughters: Barbara (Ralph) Majerus of Cedar Falls, IA; Kathleen (Michael) Kurz of San Antonio, TX; Helen (Thomas) Kennedy of North Port, FL; Suzanne (Mark) Nelson of Apple Valley, MN; Mary (Joseph) Kurcinka of Eagan, MN; sixteen grandchildren; 22 great grandchildren (with two on the way); one great great granddaughter; many loving nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her husband, Richard; parents, Raymond and Leah Furtney; brother, Raymond Edward Furtney. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated 11:00 am on Wednesday, August 18, 2010 at St. Augustine Catholic Church with Father Joe Fogal officiating. There will be a 6:30 pm wake service on Tuesday at Mayer Funeral Home where friends may call from 4-7 pm and also one hour before the service at the church on Wednesday. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery.

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