Rebecca Ann Townsend

October 31, 1946 - March 7, 2016

Rebecca Townsend, 69, of Houston passed away Monday, March 7, 2016. She was born October 31, 1946 in Pittsburgh, PA to Robert and Eleanor Townsend. She is survived by her sons, Douglas Kothe (Lori) and William Kothe (Diana); grandchildren, Michael, Jesse and Brianna; brother, James Alan Townsend (Barbara). To think about mom, you have to think about everyone she has influenced. -2 sons who she raised with love, who show their own love with extraordinary actions. -Students who remain so loyal they take the time to become her guardians, teachers, and friends. -Family able to drop everything to come and see her, knowing her well enough to do small things with her, like eat burgers and get manicures, the little things that always make her so happy. -Strong, protective sentinels for friends that go over and above to see that mom is healthy, protected, safe, and happy. The specific actions of each member on this list could be reviewed and recounted, but we would need the time to review her entire life. You might be familiar with the song “Seasons of Love.” It contemplates the question, “How do you measure a year?” The song wonders what milestones make up a life. Is it miles traveled? Dollars earned? Daylights and Sunsets? The answer, ultimately, is to measure in love. There is probably not a timeline long enough to measure mom's life in love. Her pride in her independence and ability to make her own choices only makes these connections so much more meaningful. Therefore, the pure amount of love she has given and received has made her eternal; enduring in the hearts of everyone she has graciously chosen to be a part of her life, her stories, and her adventures. A Memorial Service celebrating Rebecca’s life will be held Friday, March 11, 2016 at 7:00 PM at Dettling Funeral Home, 14094 Memorial Dr., Houston, TX 77079. In lieu of flowers please consider contributions in Rebecca's memory to the American Cancer Society at www.cancer.org .