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CONNIE FITZGERALD Obituary
Connie Fitzgerald, of Gainesville, died on Sunday, March 11th at home, surrounded by those she loved, most especially her family.
Connie was born in West Plains, Missouri. A graduate of Oberlin College, she attended Washington University Medical School where she was one of only four women in her graduating class. A pioneer in vitreo-retinal surgery, she practiced for many years in Gainesville, Ocala, and Lake City. She was beloved by her patients, not only for her medical expertise, but also for her comforting, personal approach.
For the last twenty years, she has directed St. Augustine's Rite of Christian Initiation as Adults program, leading over 300 people into the Catholic faith and way of life. She was also a devoted member of the Companions of the Cenacle Sisters.
Most important to her was being a proud mother to daughters Lisa and Kathleen, and loving grandmother to granddaughter Clara. She treasured walks with her dog Zoe, working in her garden, and time for reading and reflection.
She was a mentor and friend to many. In her honor, contributions may be made to the Cenacle Sisters of Gainesville. Donations may be made at the funeral or mailed to the Cenacle Sisters at 505 NE 5th Ave Gainesville, FL 32601.
The vigil service will take place at 7 pm Thursday, March 15th, at St. Augustine Church 1738 W University Ave, Gainesville, FL. The funeral mass will be at 5:30 pm Friday at St. Augustine Catholic Church. A reception will follow at Hurley Hall adjacent to the church. Arrangements are under the care of Forest Meadows Funeral Home, 352-378-2528. Please sign the guestbook at www.forestmeadowfh.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for CONNIE FITZGERALD
Tom Bragg
June 12, 2012
I'd be greatly obliged if a member of Connie's family would drop me an email. I have an easy favor to ask of you.
Tom Bragg
May 15, 2012
Still thinking of you and missing you, Connie.
Elizabeth Williams
March 20, 2012
I was one of Connie's many, many "daughters in the faith" as she was my mentor, friend this past 7 years. We exchanged cards, letters, and kisses at mass. She could be very forceful at times demanding perfection of others, as she strived for herself.
She truly did God's work on Earth as RCIA Director at St Augustine. She will be in many prayers this Easter, as she goes home to heaven.
In greatest appreciation for a wonderful soul, and in sympathy and encouragement to her daughters in her loss. Remember, she still loves and watches over you and your family.
Elizabeth
RCIA sponsor RCIA catechumen
March 19, 2012
To have known Connie was to have been touched by an angel.This remarkable woman made me realize that a crisis was fearing our mortal life,but not our immortal soul.A true modern day Saint.She changed many lives for the better.
We love you Connie and always will.
Patty Kuhn Dukat
March 16, 2012
Dr. Connie Fitzgerald saved my life from cancer thirty five years ago. I recall my encounter with her as if it were yesterday. She was a pure and true Angel of Mercy. We met up again two years ago and she was more dynamic and genuine of heart than I could have ever imagined in how she remembered and welcomed me. I thank Jesus for Connie. Bless Lisa, Kathleen & Clara.
sandra angelou-kaplan
March 15, 2012
i met connie a number of years ago in a yoga class -- around this time of year connie always gave something meaningful up for lent -- this year connie said i will see you in a couple of weeks -- i thought she was giving yoga up this year -- i didn't know connie's body was ill -- my lose -- this year for lent connie released her spirit back to GOD -- i had been in a car accident this last year and connie was part of a people who prayed me into wellness -- i am ever greatful that i knew connie -- LOVE -- to connie's family 3~0m namaste -- sandra
Kris Jackson
March 15, 2012
A tremendous loss for us and for your family and friends Connie, such a gain for heaven! You were a light in this world, and as I said to you just over a week ago... you helped the blind to see not only in your work as a surgeon but in your calling as God's instrument, bringing so many to God's table. I will never forget the tremendous impact you had on my life. The wine and bread we broke, the laughter, the trips to the monastery most of all... what an honor and a privilege to have smiled with you and worked beside you and called you my friend these last 13 years. How much you will be missed!
Love and more love to you, your family, and your friends.
Ann Marie Morales-Ear
March 15, 2012
To Connie's Family and the St. Augustine Family, I worked for Connie for 9 years, until we moved from Gainesville. I have many fond memories of her. Her grace and peace was ever-present. I have been blessed to know her. Peace to you.
Alice McClaughry
March 15, 2012
Connie and I walked around St. Agustine church for years, each doing our little help. I can't believe it. She has gone to where we all worship.
Mike Christensen
March 14, 2012
Some of my fondest memories of my college years would have to include evenings gathered around the fireplace with Prayer Group members at the Fitzgerald home listening to Judy Collins on their stereo. The calm and peace was monastic.
I am so grateful that I was able to visit with her last summer at her home. She spoke so warmly of Lisa, Kathleen, Clara and the rest of her natural and supernatural family. Connie will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. May God bless and console those most deeply affected by her passing. You will be in my prayers.
Tom Bragg
March 14, 2012
I loved Connie so much. I consider her my best friend, and certainly one of the most precious influences on my life. She helped me get my life together again after years of doubt and confusion. Please accept my heartfelt condolences. I grieve with you.
Please accept my prayers, love, and blessings on her behalf. She will truly be missed.
Jackie Wells
March 14, 2012
I worked with Dr. Fitzgerald at AGH for a few years and she was a wonderful person to get to know. She will be greatly missed.
Jackie Wells
March 14, 2012
We are so grateful to God for the joy and privilege of knowing and loving Connie Fitzgerald.
She touched so many lives in so many different ways, Connie was a candle in the dark for so many...
Our loving condolences to her daughters and our St. Augustine family; you are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Harry and Lele Mason
Susan Brown
March 14, 2012
Thirty some years ago my father suddenly developed symptoms of retinal detachment one evening---he made a phone call to his doctor who made a call to Dr. Fitzgerald. Though she had just completed a long day of surgery, she insisted he come to AGH immediately. It was close to midnight when she performed surgery, and his eyesight was saved. My dad was not a "patient" patient, but his recovery, with her help, went extremely well; he and we were forever grateful. I'm only sorry that I am now conveying that to her family and not to her. She was so warm and so confident and truly left the world a much better place for her having been here. My heart (and the memory of my own dad) is with you all.
Christopher Martorella
March 14, 2012
To the Fitzgerald family: I worked as nurse and manager with Dr. Fitzgerald at Alachua General Hospital in the mid to late 80s and early 90s. She was a consummate professional. May Almighty God bring peace and comfort to you.
Greg and Norine Gresh
March 14, 2012
Connie - As you approach the face of God may your joy be with You, the Son, and The Holy Spirit. Please bless us all at St. Augustines' and give strength and peace to all on our little planet.
Rev. Guy Noonan
March 14, 2012
To Connie's Family, to her community at Saint Augustine's and other Catholic communities, and to the Residents of Gainesville at large:
What a blessing to have had such a community member and resident among us. Professional in ethic and personal in demeanor, Connie certainly touched the lives of so many, directly and indirectly.
A GREAT witness within the Church, to laity and clergy both. Even in her dying, she shined like a steadfast light, ebbing to a flicker as disease progressed, but quickening with an unflinching hope.
In her final days, one of her last expressed wishes to her church friends was focused in a way so typical of Connie: 'She hoped the celebration of her life and her funeral would be an occasion for so many church members and friends to remember the times when they had loved one another'.
What an honor for me and others to have been invited by her to a 'final meal' of goodbye at her home a few weeks ago.
May she now be joined to the Lord in that great Eucharistic banquet in which we place our own hope. And may an empty seat at table be reserved in our hearts for a good long time.
Guy Francis Noonan,
Priest within the Church
Diane Jasmin-Slattery
March 14, 2012
Connie, you truly were one of God's angels walking amongst us. Your earthly presence will be sorely missed but I know all the angels in Heaven rejoiced with your ascension into their midst. May God provide comfort and peace to your family, church, and all of your friends.
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