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Annie Forts Obituary
Annie's boundless energy, poise and determination helped break down the stigmas attached to those with physical and mental disabilities. A graduate of Moultonborough Academy, Annie was a motivational speaker and self-advocate who traveled the country spreading her positive message of living on the "UP" side of Down Syndrome. Annie believed passionately in the importance of recognizing and celebrating each individual's abilities and differences, and she shared this message with audiences large and small around the country.
In addition to spending her time as a motivational speaker, Annie believed strongly in volunteerism and hard work. She was an active member and greeter at St. Charles Borromeo Church in Meredith, a 20+ year member of and proud "tail twister" for the Moultonborough Lion's Club, a volunteer at Moultonborough Academy, Inter-Lakes School District and Golden View nursing home. Annie found great joy playing (and winning) Bingo and mini-golf, singing Karaoke, chatting on the phone and just enjoying time with her many, many family members and friends.
Among Annie's numerous awards and accomplishments, she was the first recipient of the International Self-Empowerment Award given by the Kennedy Foundation at the United Nations, she was appointed by former President Bill Clinton and served 3 terms on the President's Committee on Mental Retardation, and she received the Boston Celtics Heroes Among Us Award.
Annie is survived by her loving parents Bernie and Shirley Forts with whom she lived; her three devoted siblings Brian and Carla Forts of Holden, MA; Sheri and Jim MacMillan of Meredith, NH; and Jeff and Patricia Forts of Shrewsbury MA. Annie also leaves 8 adoring nieces and nephews, Jared, Amy, Meredith, Heather, Michael, Sarah, Kevin and Kathryn and 10 great nieces and nephews. True to her old adage, Annie leaves behind more friends than there are stars in the sky.
In 1997 Annie started the "Annie Forts UP Syndrome Fund" with the support of the Moultonborough Lion's Club. Dedicated to opening windows of opportunity through education and experience, to date Annie's fund has raised over $325,000 towards her goal of $1M, and more importantly, the fund has helped provide enrichment opportunities to persons with Down Syndrome and to help support individuals interested in pursuing a career in Special Education.
The family is sincerely grateful to the Central NH VNA & Hospice staff. These professionals cared for Annie with the utmost respect and love in her final months.
SERVICES: Calling Hours will be held at Mayhew Funeral Home (www.mayhewfuneralhomes.com) in Meredith on Tuesday, May 31, from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Charles Borromeo Church in Meredith on Wednesday, June 1 at 11 a.m., with a luncheon to follow at the church. The Rev. Dennis J. Audet, pastor, will be the celebrant. Private burial will be held in the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery in Boscawen.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Annie Forts UP Syndrome Fund, PO Box 838, Moultonborough, NH 03254 (http://anniefortsupfund.org/contributions).
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Annie Forts
Sponsored by Friends in New Hamsphire.
December 23, 2018
We just learned that a young friend of ours and his parents may be dealing with the Ups Syndrome, absorbing the import of this lifelong condition, learning to welcome it as a gift. They are all wonderful. As I thought about them, I recalled meeting Annie. She told us about the Ups Syndrome. She inspired us with her courage, energy and good works. Now, as we help our young friends, Annie's example will guide us. Meeting Annie was serendipity for us. We are so sorry for her loss. Our best wishes to the Forts family. Martha and Rudy Carlson, Sandwich, NH.
Karen Gaffney
September 19, 2016
Dear Shirley and Bernie,
I have just learned that Annie has passed away, and I am so sorry to hear that. I know that you know Annie was such a big inspiration to many of us, but I want to say it anyway! I always looked forward to seeing Annie at conferences, and even though she was always very busy there, she always had time to talk to me, or have lunch or dinner with me. She made time for everyone! She was a leader for people with and without Down syndrome. I am very grateful for the opportunity to know Annie. Your friend, Karen Gaffney
August 31, 2016
Bernie & Shirley -
I only found out today about Annie's dying at the end of May. I am so sorry for your loss and for all of our loss - she was such a sweet and inspiring woman, and always lifted my spirits when I would see her at the DD Council when I worked there. It has been several years since I had seen her and I will miss counting myself as one of her many friends.
Bonnie Addario
Belind Hurd
August 2, 2016
To my frend Anniie Forts i met her at the leader ship Searys a good friend who stateddd up syymbdon.
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CHRIS RAND
August 2, 2016
RIP ANNIE TILL WE MEET AGAIN.
Sam, Dan, Billy, and Artie Melville
July 25, 2016
We just found out about Annie's passing and are so very sorry! We hope that you receive our sincere sympathies-we know of no other way to reach you but here-please contact us!
We've known Annie for over 30 years, since when we first moved to Meredith. I remember the love she showed to the world; her hugs brightened everyone's day. I remember she was so very happy for us when Billy came along, then Artie. She'd always seek us out at church to see how they were growing, and give them a hug and kiss too. After we moved, any time we came up for a family visit, we'd go for groceries at Heaths', and try to time it just so we'd catch Annie at work and get one of those hugs! Her love and determination stretched to show her community, the nation, and the world what being differently abled was about. Our love to you all; we weep at Annie's passing, but rejoice in her beautiful life.
Carolee Stafford
June 5, 2016
So sad to hear of the news of Annie's passing. She was a beautiful and inspirational person to anyone who crossed her path. I remember her so well from family weekend up at Singing Hills. Thinking of you all during this very difficult time.
Justin Bernard
June 3, 2016
To the Forts family: May Annie RIP
Jo Ann Simons
June 3, 2016
To the Forts Family
We have all lost Annie. She will be remembered for her many gifts and the opportunities she opened for all our children when you opened the door for her.
Deb and Joe Fegan
June 2, 2016
Since moving to the Lakes Region in the spring of 2010, we have not met another person who is so upbeat and positive as Annie. The world would be a much better place if there were more people with the cheerful, friendly attitude Annie always had. We shall miss her beyond words, but we believe our lives are so much better for having known Annie for what turned out to be a relatively short time. Our hearts and sympathies go out to her family and friends.
Marti Piro
June 2, 2016
I met Annie in 2004 shortly after we moved to New Hampton. She was a bright light in my life and the life of so many others. Every time we went to lunch she could barely eat as so many people would stop by the table and say 'hello.' She knew everyone and loved all she knew!
We no longer live in the area but I want to send my sincere and sorrowful condolences to her entire family. Annie always had stories to tell of her loving family. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her and a new bright star has been added to God's heavenly kingdom.
I am a better person from knowing you, Annie.
With love and tears, Marti Piro
Bonnie-Jean Brooks
June 1, 2016
My heart is broken! If I had known, I would have been there for her family and to honor her memory and in recognition of the gifts and insight that she brought to me. Shirley and Bernie, there are no words to convey my deepest sympathy and sorrow for your loss and that of our world! I loved Annie! Thank you for bringing her into my life!
Gayle (Pocock) Hardy
June 1, 2016
My sympathies to all of Annie's family and galaxy of friends upon her death. She left a huge impact on my life and brought joy to my heart with every visit. I will cherish her friendship and my memories. Peace to you.
Lieutenant Mann
May 31, 2016
The men and women of the Belmont, NH Police Department want to express our deepest sympathies to the Forts Family. Annie's light will always shine bright in the hearts of those who knew her.
Harry Blood
May 31, 2016
Dear Shirley and Bernie,
I was saddened to learn Annie passed away. She was such a wonderful individual. I always enjoyed working with her when she came to my classroom and to see her spirit at our athletic events. My thoughts and payers go out to you. HB
Jerome Snee
May 29, 2016
Mr.& Mrs. Forts, Brian,Carla, Shari, Jimmy,Jeff and Patty, my heart felt condolences and prayers at this challenging moment. I will ask the Jesuit Community at the College of the Holy Cross to remember dearest Annie and the entire Forts family in their Masses.
It was an honor and privilege to have known and been loved by Annie. Such a perfect and beautiful picture of such an amazing woman, pioneer, advocate and leader.
Much love and prayers,
Jerry
Mike & Peggy Stone & Burns
May 29, 2016
It was a real pleasure knowing Annie and found her to be a fun-loving and people loving girl, when we met her back in the 80s. We'll never forget her.
Our sympathies go to her family, especially to good friends Sheri & Jim.
Ron & Lyn O'Callaghan
May 28, 2016
We offer sincere condolences to the Forts family and to Annie's legion of friends. Annie made enormous strides in changing for the better the public's perception of those who are differently abled. We remember her dedication to her mission, her warmth, enthusiasm, and perseverance. As we say so long to Annie, we will miss her hugs and her happy greeting "Hello, friend!" We wish you comfort and peace in your loss.
Janice Bode
May 28, 2016
Annie was by far one of my best friends. We met 24 years ago when she was a hostess at the Sweet Water Inn in Moultonborough. We enjoyed many wonderful times together - so many memories for me forever! She brought so much joy to people and gave so much to others - Annie loved her life!! Her parents, Bernie and Shirley, are phenomenal parents who encouraged her in every aspect of her life. She was blessed with a loving family, and many, many friends! I will miss her terribly, but know that she is now happy in Heaven making many more new friends! My deepest sympathies and condolences to the Forts Family.
Lorraine Butler
May 28, 2016
I met Annie in 1996 at a leadership training She gave a very good speech I'm sorry to Hear about her passing may god be with you You are all in my prays. I'm special needs myself and do a lot of volunteer work for the Town of Derry New Hampshire.
The Dempseys
May 27, 2016
We feel so blessed to have known Annie and been touched by her warmth and zest for life. She brought joy to so many people and was truly a gift to all of us from God. She made our world a much better place and our thoughts and prayers go out to her family.
Thr Dempsey Family
Cheryl and Rudy VanVeghten
May 27, 2016
So very sorry to hear of Annie's death. She will be missed by all. She was an inspiration to everyone. Her good works will live in the UP Fund.
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