Eliza Praetorius Obituary

Eliza (Cavanagh) Praetorius, 65, died Thursday, March 17, 2011 at Benedictine Hospital. Born May 8, 1945 in Boston, MA, she was a daughter of the late George and Margery Smith Cavanagh. She grew up in Scituate, graduated from Thayer Academy and Manhattanville College. She was a published author of poetry and novels. She composed music and played the piano. She co-wrote a musical "Minka Ray", which was performed in Florida and later became a book. Surviving are her daughter, Summer Praetorius of Oregon, son Jebsen Praetorius of Saugerties; five brothers, George, William, Charles, Nick and Tom Cavanagh, a sister Diedre Cavanagh; nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Monday at St. Gregory's Episcopal Church, Rte. 212, Woodstock, NY. Arrangements are under the direction of Lasher Funeral Home, Inc., 100 Tinker St., Woodstock, NY.

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Published by The Patriot Ledger from Mar. 24 to Mar. 26, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for Eliza Praetorius

11 Entries

Vernon

March 13, 2021

2011. Seems like yesterday. I still miss her so. What a time we had with Toodlum Tales!

Ginny

March 29, 2011

I moved to Florida two years back. I met Eliza thru DePorres Place Literacy Center. I enjoyed her spunk. She was a generous person, kind and caring. Through Eliza I have made new friends and she also assisted with helping me find suitable living arrangements. She was a destined meeting by God and I am grateful to have know Eliza! ...and thanks for the Kayaking, Eliza! Ginny, Jupiter, FL

The Ellingson Family

March 28, 2011

Our Thoughts and Prayers are with you

Steve and Mary Ellingson

March 28, 2011

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998

fjohn reinke (mc1968)

March 25, 2011

The Manhattan College alumni community shares the grief, and is now praying for our fellow alumni and the family at this time. The Alumni Office has been informed. As well as the Jasper Jottings community that I personally can reach. We are all a little poorer now. "No man is an island, entire of itself ... any man's death diminishes me". We are sorry for your loss.

Barbara and Mike Danehy[winfield]

March 23, 2011

March 22 2011
Mike and I knew Eliza since the 70's, when Mike married Eliza and Red, and we were close friends from then on. Eliza was an inspiration to me on many levels. I loved her never ending optimism and her idealistic nature, as well as her ability to take many different types of risks, and always land on her feet. I will miss you, Eliza, and thanks for being my friend for these many years. Our love to Summer and Jeb.

March 21, 2011

I loved and admired Eliza for many things, but especially these three... Her gypsy soul, her dedication to living the life of an artist and her great love for her children, Jeb and Summer.
Elin Menzies

Karen Prussing

March 21, 2011

Eliza was a favorite partner and opponent when I played tennis @ Riverbend. I especially enjoyed the evening walks with her and the Johnson family. Those were special times and shall remain in my heart and memory of the perky, tall, blond with a kind word for everyone!!
Karen Prussing, Concord, MA

Sidney Beckwith

March 20, 2011

Eliza was a person my family looked forward to sharing time and inquiry upon visits to Riverbend, Florida. She was an excellent writer, loved creating on the internet, and we all enjoyed chattering while walking. We were saddened to learn of her illness and our love is sent to her daughter, son, and special friends.
Sidney Beckwith

Vernon Benjamin

March 20, 2011

Eliza was a wonderful writer and a close friend. She was the spirit of Toodlum Tales. I shall miss her very much.

Marlyce Pedersen

March 19, 2011

Eliza was every inch a lady with a wonderful sense of humor. She was a loyal and steadfast friend and we had many amazing adventures together, including kayaking and creative pursuits with words and music. She had a way of becoming a "forever" part of your life and will be sorely missed. All those whose lives she touched are better for it. Marlyce Pedersen

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