"I’m so sorry to hear about the passing of sweet Senora Whitlow. She was (and still is!) someone who I appreciated and respected tremendously. She taught Spanish at Xavier High School and made a huge difference in my life for so many reasons other than just learning Spanish! She listened when I needed someone to listen to me, she was truly kind and she understood when I needed that the very most. She filled the classroom with her cheery and warm personality and her enthusiasm was contagious! I just loved attending her classes! I will never forget how she supported and encouraged me and how she was always such a positive force - I learned that from her and try to live like that, as well! Besides her great personality, she always had the BEST shoes, something that a 15-year old girl always noticed! She made a huge impact on my life and I will never, ever forget her! God Bless Senora Whitlow for her understanding, her love, her graciousness, her kindness, her generosity and her enthusiasm! :) P.S. To Kitty: I wrote your sweet Mom a letter about 12 or 13 years ago to let her know that I was OK; she wrote me back and I still have that letter. I truly loved your Mom! What a special lady!"
In loving memory of
Mary Afifa Whitlow
Mary Afifa Whitlow, of Phoenix, Arizona, died peacefully July 19, 2010 at the age of 91. One of eight children, Mary Afifa was born August 4, 1918 in Nogales, Arizona to Fhada and Solomon Saba. Mary Afifa loved Nogales and missed it dearly when the family moved to Dallas, Texas during the Depression. In Dallas, she received a full scholarship to Southern Methodist University where she was active in theater productions. After graduation she moved to New Orleans where she met her husband, Laurence (deceased), from Douglas, Arizona. After several years they returned to Phoenix. Mary was active in the Phoenix Little Theater (initially housed in a barn), enjoyed political discussions and was energetic in all her endeavors and relationships. Mary
Tributes
"I was truly saddened to hear about Mary Whitlow passing. She was undoubtedly an icon in my life. She was the most enthusiatic, energetic, and I might add funniest woman I ever met. She gave of herself on all levels. I remember when I was flunking Spanish at Central High School. She volunteered to tutor me and my twin brother Rick for 3 years. Thanks to her, I not only learned Spanish but it became one of my favorite subjects. She never once asked for anything in return. She had a very strong sense of right versus wrong, something that seems to be fading in today’s world and society. Mrs. Whitlow will be missed and I send my love to Kitty and Whit and other family members."
"My sincere condolences are sent on the passing of your loved one. Mary was one of my favorite "grandmas" at Phoenix Mountain Nursing Center where I was a volunteer for nearly 11 years until last Sept. This dear person loved the hand, arm, and facial massages that I did weekly. Although she rarely spoke, she conveyed through body language how much she enjoyed having her hair brushed and lipstick applied with that beautiful smile. She was a lovely woman whom it was my honor to meet. Godspeed, dear one, and may you rest peacefully with God and the angels. You blessed and enriched my life."
"It has been many years since I last had contact with Mary, but I have never forgotten her warmth and graciousness. I have always been grateful for the way she opened her home to a homesick girl from New England. May God hold her in the palm of His hand and grant her peace."
"Sra. Whitlow was my energetic, enthusiastic Spanish 1 teacher at Sunnyslope High. When I became a Spanish teacher, I hoped to be as inspiring as she was each and every day. Her fun songs continue to help students learn a new language. Vaya con Dios, estimada Sra."
"Mrs. Whitlow was my next door neighbor and "Mudder". She was a second "Mother" to me as I was over to the Whitlow house almost daily when I was a young child. She taught me how to sew, first making doll clothes, then making real clothing.My Mother didn’t know how to sew and I wanted to learn.Mudder was also there helping me when I got my first sewing machine. She gave of her time and talents to bless my life and my brother’s lives. Her Christmas water cooler cover is still proudly displayed during the holidays. I think of her every year when I see it. It’s been less than a year since my Mother died. I know that Mom and "Mudder" are talking to one another in the spirit world."
"I have been fortunate to know and love Mary, to have traveled with her down memory lane to Nogales and her old home and school. She is the most resourceful woman I have ever met. I shall miss her very much."
"I remember Mrs. Whitlow as a fun-loving, energetic Spanish teacher at Sunnyslope High School during the late 60’s. She made learning a foreign language enjoyable and something to look forward to every day. God rest her soul."