To all of you, she was “Mama BFS”—a name she gave herself—but to me and my twin brother, Eric, she was Mom. But more than Mom, she was also my hero, mentor, boss, and best friend. Phyllis Norton (Hoffman) DePiano’s time with us came to an end on July 10, 2023, and my heart was forever changed. I move forward with a huge hole that can’t be filled—but it’s a reminder to celebrate her legacy and passions every day.
She wrote on her blog, The Ribbon in My Journal, that she didn’t want to be remembered for her résumé and professional achievements. “It’s not about accomplishments or wealth; it’s about loving unconditionally, encouraging others, reaching out a hand to those in need, praying for and with friends who are hurting, and being an example of living our lives in such a way that our family and friends know we are always there for them.”
But I want you to know some about her professional life so you can better understand the woman I am honoring. After becoming a certified public accountant in the 1970s and marrying my dad later that decade, she left the professional world to fulfill her biggest dream in life: becoming a in 1983. That magazine went on to be the largest needlework magazine in the world, and lots of accolades came with that impact. I will never forget our dad taking Eric and me to an industry trade show in Charlotte, North Carolina, to surprise Mom after she received a lifetime achievement award. I remember thinking, “Wow, our mom really is something special to so many. I’m so glad she is mine.”
