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Coach was so amazing. She was the most effective teacher I knew! In the 2 years she taught me I started to enjoy P.E. more than I ever did before! For me, P.E. was not the most fun subject. But as soon as I got to CDS and she started to teach me, everything changed. P.E became a place where I can hang out with friends, and get taught by coach Woodrich. It was a privilege to be taught by her. I didn't HAVE to be taught by her, I GOT to.

❤️ Hannah Powers

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I think it was fate back in 1995/1996 that brought Julie and Treb to buy the house on one side of Pat and Bitha and me to buy the house on the other side of Pat and Bitha.  Our friendships began and none of us ever looked back.
Bitha and Julie always asked me to walk with them.  I was always too busy but they never gave up.  Finally one day I started walking with them.  We became a fixture walking on Simms Road.  Our humorous neighbor, Jim, started calling us PB&J.  Those walks were life changing.  We laughed, cried, horsed around, learned and loved and supported each other.  Those two Florida natives taught this Yankee about collard greens, grits, the birds, the flowers, the winds, the trees the butterflies and life in the South.  They also taught me about true friendships, love and companionship.
The other day when I went to my pantry I started sobbing.  There was a mason jar of the jam that Bitha made on one of her trips to North Carolina.  She was always doing something for someone else.  She never gave up on anyone.  No matter how much pain Bitha was is, she never complained.  She just kept thinking about what she could do for someone else.
When I start to cry thinking I won't see Bitha again I pause and realize that Bitha is always with all of us.  She's right with me in the clouds above, the wind blowing, the birds chirping, the butterflies flittering by, the sunset over her deck, the flowers in bloom.  Bitha will always be with me in the lessons she taught me and the love she gave me.  Once you met Bitha you could never forget her and I never will!
Paula Carruthers

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...your jovial personality.  The Saturdays before Christmas won't be the same.

-Travis Brett C.

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Bitha  was a  one of a kind  - not only in name but figuratively. I never knew another Bitha nor anyone like her. When she entered a room, it brightened. She was just one of those people. The impact she had on so many lives is obvious. I was priveleged to know her for so many years, and  she was always fun to be around. From an early age she learned how to nourish a positive personality which she used to make a positive impact on society, which is better for having her in it, and my heart is glad to see how many people she so strongly impacted for the better.  I look forward to visits with her in the hereafter.
Love always, Brent, Pamela, Carl, Connor & Jimmy

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Bitha,

I think about the last time we spoke just a couple months ago. You walked into my office and I'd told you how good it was good to see you to which you replied, "It's good to be seen." Let me tell you, I don't think there was ever a room that you walked into that you weren't seen; usually because you already had everyone laughing. But that response has really stuck with me, and speaks to the person that you were. Full of life and laughter and always looking on the bright side of things. I feel lucky to have known you and you will be so greatly missed.
❤️ Lacey

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I miss you and will forever miss you. I promise to spend every day trying to make you proud.
Forever BiLie

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My heart is broken. You are a true victor of life! There is no “loser“ or “battle“ when it comes to cancer. They have far too few effective curative treatments and interventions for these metaphors. You my dear friend are a winner by the way you lived and the lives you’ve touched. The memories and fun times I will cherish forever. Love you always ❤️❤️❤️❤️!!!!

Sandra

#youaretherealqueen

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I will miss you so much. I remember when I was in elementary and you always brought joy into our class. I also remember how you always made me laugh and put a smile on my face. You will always be in my heart forever, even when I graduate.
Addison Royster

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I forever more will remember your beaming smile, how you brightened my day and the way you twisted a deep concern into positive wisdom. You had such a warm perspective and glowing hear. I’m so thankful you were a part of my children’s lives and honored to have walked on your path! You were such a light here in Earth. I can only imagine you as an Angel!! Your essence lives on in all who met you. God bless your family! Love, The Wagners

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When I consider what matters most in life, I immediately think of individuals like you. Your passion and zest for life was inspiring and touched everyone who was fortunate enough to cross paths with you. Your uninhibited, good nature made everyone around you feel better, laugh, and believe that beautiful things are possible. I believe that the measure of an individual's life can be evidenced in the way that they made others feel. I for one, am grateful for having spent time working with you at P.E. my first seven years at CDS. You were simply put, the GOLD standard in how you taught and cared for those children. It was quite evident when I first met you that you were a person of high standing in this institution. I quickly discovered why, as I felt the same way that those children that you taught so well felt about you. I'll close this post with a quote from the film Dances with Wolves that articulates how I always felt about you: "You know I was thinking, that of all the trails in life, there is one that matters most. It is the trail of becoming a true human being. I believe that you are on this trail and it is good to see."
Kicking Bird to Dances with Wolves
May you STAY eternally GOLD my dear friend.
~ Mario J. Espinosa

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You are such an amazing woman that only lightened up everyone's world when you were around! Thank you for all you did for Brycie and Carli through their years at CDS. It was such a pleasure to work with you as well. You always made me laugh no matter how crazy the day was. I feel blessed to have had you as part of my life. Love Always and you will never be forgotten. Shannon Gauthier and Family

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What beautiful words have been written about Bitha. All accurate. Ray of light, full of positive energy, and inspiring others to move ahead in a positive way.  Not taking things overly seriously.
God Speed Bitha. Thank you for all of the jokes, laughter and Love you spread around to everyone. You will be missed.

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Dear coach I’m so sad that u are no longer with us I love y and u were always there for me and no matter someone’s past u will love them and care for them so much and u truly were gods present from earth and I will see u one day and we will meet again💗

By morgan sykes💗🫶🏻

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Dear Coach,

You have been there for me since day 1 at CDS and you taught me so much. Every day you would make me smile you would brighten up the room. I know that god has you in good hands and will take good care of you. I will always think about you! 🤍✨

-Brooke Mihara

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Coach Wodrich,

My fondest elementary school memories were all because of you. There was this inexplainable and beautiful joy and happiness about you, and you were always such a ray of positivity. Only now I realize how much elementary Cathy looked up to you because of that. Even in the most toughest of times, you always had a smile on your face, and you could cheer me up any time. I'll never forget the impact you had on me, and the rest of the community. Thank you so much for being an incredible role-model and person.

Cathy Philip ('25)

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Coach, there aren’t enough words for me to express how grateful I am to have had that period in life to be your student. By simply being you, you taught me so many lessons in perseverance, in sportsmanship, in living boldly and joyfully. I’ll never forget you. Thank you for changing my life for the better. Sending all the love and prayers to Coach’s family, friends and the CDS family, Audrey L

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I read this today of all days and one person came to mind front and center and it was Bitha! I will never forget how she made everyone feel around her and the party always became a good time when she was there! I’ll miss you, sweet and hilarious Bitha, and so will many others. You changed every life you came across for the better and will never be forgotten. There’s a party in Heaven going on with you there. Love you.🙏💕💕💕💕

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I read this today of all days and one person came to mind front and center and it was Bitha! I will never forget how she made everyone feel around her and the party always became a good time when she was there! I’ll miss you, sweet and hilarious Bitha, and so will many others. You changed every life you came across for the better and will never be forgotten. There’s a party in Heaven going on with you there. Love you.🙏💕💕💕💕

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Love, Sherry (The Longbottom Family)
♥️♥️♥️♥️

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My heart broke when I heard the news of my favorite CDS teacher and friend passing. There was never a day that she was not joking and smiling. I always stopped what I was doing in the kitchen when she came by to chat. We loved to compare notes and pictures of our grand babies. Im sure she has all the angels rolling in laughter. And they all will be enjoying some of her great jellies. Rest in peace Coach
Theresa Maronpot
Red Elephant

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Every interaction I had with Coach Woodrich immediately gave me joy. She had a way of making everyone feel special and seen. Her smile was absolutely contagious, just being in her presence made my day brighter. Such fond memories of Coach Woodrich, I feel lucky to have known her 🤍
-Elizabeth Edgerton

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The world lost a such beautiful soul in Bitha-She was always there to try to brighten everyone’s day with a kind word, a laugh, her fun earrings, jokes and just her overall zest for life. Who could have guessed so many years ago when we first met what an impact she would have on not just our children’s lives but ours as well. I don’t believe anyone who ever met Bitha didn’t immediately fall in love with her. I know she put up a brave fight and she will be in our hearts and memories forever. RIP
Ginger Bennett

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Bitha, Oh how much I am going to miss your sweet, funny, kind, loving, and authentic soul! You have loved on so many people and were a true light to everyone! I am going to missed you so much. I still remember our conversation of how you mentioned “I’m going to be okay either way. Just thankful for another day.” You truly valued your days here…you’ve been called home. Love you! ❤️

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Bitha, Oh how much I am going to miss your sweet, funny, kind, loving, and authentic soul! You have loved on so many people and were a true light to everyone! I am going to missed you so much. I still remember our conversation of how you mentioned “I’m going to be okay either way. Just thankful for another day.” You truly valued your days here…you’ve been called home. Love you! ❤️

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To Bitha's family,

My sincerest condolences. You were so lucky, all of us were, to have known such a beautiful person. Coach Woodrich made an impression on everyone she met and lit up any room she walked into. She is at the center of so many memories and the source of so much laughter. I think of her everytime someone asks for a "round of applause" and, yes, I still clap in a circle everytime.

Coach was so loved and will continue to live on through all of us. Thank you for sharing her with us!
-Alexandra Mamontoff

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She was a super star n a bright light for everyone she made you laugh . She will be that bright star in the sky n heavens above is with her silly teeth smiling on all of us who was lucky enough to have known her . Prayers to her family

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Our whole family loved Bitha! Our kids all loved having her as their PE teacher and my husband and I both had the privilege of working with her. She was such a wonderful human and we are all so sad that she is gone. Sending love to her family and everyone who knew this wonderful woman. She will be truly missed but never forgotten.

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Bitha, you left your imprint on the hearts and lives of so many. Those of us who had the privilege of knowing you and working with you for so many years will never be the same. You brought so much joy to everyone who crossed your path - young and old alike. Vinnie and I have missed seeing you each day on campus, but I have been so thankful to continue staying in touch via texts and emails. Kim, your mom was beyond amazing and truly larger than life!  Each time your mom visited campus after she retired, it was still so evident how much she was loved by all. This was from her visit this past September. It was always such a treat to spend time with her. Vinnie and I are honored to be able to call her our friend. Keeping you and your family close in thought and prayer. With much love, Vinnie and Barbie

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I knew Bitha for over 30 years and after every conversation I ever had with her I felt better. Her positivity effected everyone she met. She will be missed.   Greg Bennett

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I knew Bitha for over 30 years and after every conversation I ever had with her I felt better. Her positivity effected everyone she met. She will be missed.   Greg Bennett

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I am heartbroken. I cannot adequately express how much she meant to me and all my classmates during our formative years. What an incredible human being. She made the world a better place, one child at a time. Coach, we'll miss you, your sense of humor, and the light you always brought. 💔💔 Sending her family, friends, and the entire CDS community love and healing.

With love,
Alexie Riofrio

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Coach Woodrich,

For all the years that I was at CDS, you were always one of my favorites. You had the most positive energy and incredible spirit in everything you did. I always looked forward to P.E with you because you never failed to put the biggest smile on my face. As my friends and I have gotten older and talk about our favorite memories from school, your name is always brought up along with a funny story. I’ll always remember the fake teeth, the times that Ellie and I would go around collecting feathers for your hat, and when we randomly gave you the nickname “Norman” and continued to call you that years later. You were always so supportive of me in everything I did and taught me so much about hard work and dedication. For as many students as you taught, you always seemed to remember each one and make them feel important. You were truly a light in everyone’s life and are so loved.

Thank you so much for leaving such a positive impact on my life and my years at CDS.

-Katie Raab

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Thank you for your sense of humor that reaches the  STRATOSPHERE ! What a blessing for the Amey /Cochran family to be your neighbors and for you being my children’s “Coach Woodrich”.

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Coach,
You have made my elementary years the best they could’ve ever been. You’ve never failed to make me laugh and always cheered me up. You always had a smile on your face whenever I saw you. We all love you so much and thank you for making my childhood.

Rachel Carlson

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Getting to see you every week in elementary never failed to make me smile. I remember every single PE class that I had with you. You were always there for me and always pushed me to be my best self. The impact that you made on all of your students at CDS is amazing. I will never forget you. Thank you for everything.

-Colin Weintraub

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I  remember interviewing for the fifth grade teaching position on Michigan Avenue in 2002.  As I was walking to the classroom building, I heard and saw Bitha teaching her PE class.  The kids were running and laughing and Bitha was laughing right a long with them.  It was a great memory and made a lasting impression.  I took the job that day! Bitha was a hero to the students she taught and an inspiration to all who knew her! I will forever remember her fake teeth and our “oh baby” joke.  She was an absolute wonderful person and will be terribly missed.  She may no longer be here, but we will keep all the memories forever in our hearts! Continue to sparkle and shine wherever you go Bitha!  We love you!

Blythe Marulanda and family

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It’s evident by all of these posts here how much of an impact you made on your students at CDS, including myself. PE with you wasn’t just a place to escape the classroom, it was a time for us to laugh, have fun, and chat about everything. Only you could create an environment where every kid, no matter their level of athleticism or skill set, would want to participate and have fun doing so. I have so many amazing memories from CDS that involved you, including funtastic Friday and the infamous dunk tank. I am so grateful that I was able to continue a relationship with you after graduating CDS because of my mom. Thank you for being such a wonderful friend to her and for taking her places she probably would have never gone! You were taken far too early but you certainly left an incredible mark. I am so happy to have had over 20 years of knowing you. Sending love to your family and friends. I’ll do my best to keep Julie under control! 😉 -Love, Taylor Tippett

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Your smile and larger than life personality was special to everyone you met! We will never forget how kind you were to ALL the students and families. Prayers to your family and your CDS family. You will forever be in our hearts! The Kowiak Family

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Coach Woodrich went out of her way to get up on stage to hug me for my signing day. This is after she called my high school coach on the left a “hunk”. 2012 

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Coach Woodrich,

I’m in awe that the lord took you home too soon.

All I can say is THANK YOU.

Thank you for giving me nothing but joy every time I had PE with you from 1st grade to 8th. Thank you for making every student laugh uncontrollably with your crazy teeth in while in the dunk tank at fall festival. Thank you for sparking my interest in volleyball in 5th grade which lead me to playing club and then college. Thank you for making sure you were there for my signing day and getting on stage to give me a hug/tell me how proud you were of me. That alone made little elementary school Danielle explode on the inside. Thank you for turning into a friend/colleague when I started coaching middle school volleyball for CDS. I would kill to be half the coach you were for me. Hanging out with you as an adult was even better than I could imagine.

You gave every child at CDS joy in your classes. You were the highlight of our day.

To Bitha’s family- she had the BIGGEST impact on children’s lives and that beautiful energy will be missed. I am so unbelievably sorry for your loss.

- Danielle Daley
Class of 2012

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There are so many memories of my childhood filled with you. From the crazy teeth to the infectious laugh, you were a staple in my life for the better part of 12 years. I vividly remember being on a field trip and you were dancing up the aisles to "Redneck Woman" by Gretchen Wilson because it was the ring tone on your cell phone. It had all of us laughing. You support and encourage students like no one else. I remember being in fifth grade and I really wanted to play volleyball but there wasn't a team for elementary students. You started a spring clinic and allowed fifth graders to play and that changed my whole trajectory of middle and high school. You were always so supportive of your students and went above and beyond to help us succeed. You are the very best of what a teacher, mentor, and coach has to offer. We will miss you forever. Thank you for being you!

Nicole Neugebauer

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Thank you for always being so kind to Jacob and Mia and for teaching me the proper way to affix kayaks to the roof of my car.

Eric Torres

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I can’t believe how many years we’ve been friends! We’ve watched each others kids grow up at CDS, taught together & chaperoned so many 7th graders to the Keys every year for 17 years!! Those were great times! 💕 How many nights we sat up talking about the day. How about eating fresh caught calamari cooked by Laura & Jess, or telling ghost stories with the kids, doing night wades & swims, swimming with nurse sharks, & of course, enjoying the kids’ amazement in dissecting all kinds of cool critters with Carrie Prieto, Julie Hall & Barbara Hawkins (aka Mother Nature) among others. Taking the 6th graders to swim with the manatees in the cold springs in Crystal River was another great memory with you that I treasure. I will always remember peoples expressions when you were “in character” wearing your teeth 🤣. Bitha, you have the ability to walk into a room & light it up with your humor, joy & compassion. Your insight & authentic joy in working with kids is truly inspiring. You always have a kind word and see the best in everyone, young or old. You have definitely made this world a better place by being here. Stay strong dear friend. Love you 😍. You’re the best! ❤️
Dawn Bickoff

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We have so much to be thankful for.  What a stroke of luck to have you (and Pat) as our nextdoor neighbors for the last 27 years.  The 1st day we moved in, we met you at the fence line to begin a long remarkable journey with you (and Pat!) in our lives.  You have been an INDISPENSIBLE shining light in our Boy’s lives, and a role model for all of us on how to embrace life with courage, conviction, and a heavy dose of humor.  So so many memories….. lessons on the Macarena, 5 o’clock Friday floating in the lake, stories of Lake Keystone past, bonfires, incredible comfort food at countless New Years, Memorial Day, 4th of July, and Christmas celebrations, fireball toasts, trips to Homosassa and so many more.  It is no wonder why so many people love you.  Julie said it right.  Our lives would be so different had we not met you.  You are the greatest gift.  You will remain in my heart forever.  I love you Bitha.

Treb H

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Over my 8 and a half years at CDS you were always one of my favorites. I always looked forward to P.E. with you, and I could always count on you to break up the school day with a good laugh. One of my favorite memories is when you gifted me a baseball helmet, wrapped in bubble wrap, after I got a concussion in the 8th grade. That’s just one of many.

You taught me lessons that I still carry with me and an abundance of memories I will never forget. Thank you for showing me at a young age that it’s okay to be yourself, it’s a good thing to be a little goofy, and to always have fun with a smile on your face.

Thank you and I am praying for you and your family.

- Max Garcia

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I only had you in PE my first year at CDS in 5th grade but I can just remember you making it the highlight of every day. You always made me feel special. You loved to make everyone laugh and smile and still remembered my name years after you had me in your class. Your memory will live on forever in CDS.
Lots of love,
Camryn Sheppard

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Thank you for being you. You are involved in so many of my favorite memories at CDS. You have always been one of my favorite volleyball coaches and I am so thankful you encouraged me to pursue the sport outside of school. Your belief in me and your endless support impacted my life so much. You brought so much joy to my life and so many others. Thank you for everything.

Jacklyn Kernohan

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Love you so much!  You always light up the room with your friendly smile and laugh.  I remember as a kid I was going to go visit relatives in Florida, and was going to stay with you for a number of days.  “You don’t have kids my age.” I thought.  “Oh man who am I going to play with?  I hope it isn’t boring, or even awkward.”  I ended up having the time of my life!  We spent a lot of time on the lake and pool!  I had such an awesome time!

I really enjoyed our day boating ion lake Fontana with you just a few summers ago. I didn’t grow up on the lake, and you jumped right in and my mom too. I eventually went in and really enjoyed it. I am glad I had that time with you.  I remember leaving Anna Maria island last year, and thinking “Gosh I should have talked with Aunt Bitha more.”  Time flies by - and we have to take advantage best we can.  Love you and will keep you and your entire family in my prayers daily.

Love,
Wade & The Farrow Family (Dana, Max, Jorah)

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We weren’t sold on CDS on Maddie’s first day of first grade. My sweet baby girl had no one to lean on when her Daddy and I walked away and left her in the schools hands. Someone in the office recommended I stick around for morning opening, to get an idea of who will be shaping my girl in her years to come.  The kids seemed well behaved, and disciplined as the brave teachers shuffled them into their designated spots on the floor. I spot my girl, quiet, tears welling up in her eyes.  What have I done?
Then, the rest is history.  This ball of light and energy comes dancing out of the dark.  Kids are standing up screaming and laughing. Who IS this person?  What in gods name does she drink in morning?  Before long, I knew I found my person, my school. You became our beacon of hope.  Never again did we question our decision.  You will always be my families best example of what the right person for the right job can do.  You will always be our “dancing queen”.
Love and giant hugs
The Polk Family

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10,085 days (and counting), that's how long we've been friends.  I can't begin to remember all of the things we have done and shared together - walks, talks, laughs, hugs, fires, floating, boating, eating, drinking and there was that time when we crashed a party :) , our secrets and dreams.  You taught me so much about love, life and caring.  I am a better person because of you.

As I read all of these wonderful posts honoring You, I'm reminded just how great you are to so many people.  My family would be different without your love, support and warm embrace.   You are the definition of family and friend.

My only wish is that I gave you something back to you.

I will love you forever, my person.
Julie H

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Dear Coach (Norman),

I have so many fun memories growing up with you it would take forever to type them all out. Being my coach in MS volleyball, getting the nickname Norman (idk how), giving you feathers to put in your hat, the fake teeth you would wear, and I don’t know if you remember this… but you one time rescued me and Katie when we got locked in the bathroom at South Beach. You never failed to make me laugh, and showed everyone how to always have fun! I loved speaking to you at First Watch last year. You are such a huge part of my time at CDS, and are so loved by everyone around you. Thank you for being such a light in everyone’s life!

Love always,

Elisabeth Cáceres

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Thank you, Coach, for all the years of laughter and making school fun for my boys. There was never a dull moment!  You have a way of lighting up young lives.

Jenny Pollock
Noah and Wade’s mom

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Bitha, I've known you my entire life.
My entire life, you've been my next-door neighbor. When I was first learning to snorkel in our lake, it was with you and my mom. Growing up, I remember going to almost as many of your family BBQs as my own. It actually took a number of years for me to realize that I wasn't technically related to your family. Not technically. But you are my Aunt Bitha.

You're my Aunt Bitha, whose house always had so many dogs. Whose dogs seemed so much more willing than ours to run with us right off the end of the dock. You're my Aunt Bitha who taught me what a butterfly garden is. You're my Aunt Bitha who would grow potatoes in the summers up in North Carolina. Who would then barter those same potatoes for homemade moonshine from the man next-door. Whose kitchen counter always seemed to be filled with food for everyone. I think your sweet-hot pickles might actually be my favorite pickle flavor, too.

I think I misunderstood the word 'neighbor' for a while, because of you. I always thought neighbors were like Aunts and Uncles. Family, but with different parents and grandparents and all that. Maybe I misunderstood the word 'family'? Either way, thank you. Thank you for sharing your family with me.

Now that I've been out of college for a few years, I've started paying more attention to where I want to settle down, what kind of community I want to be a part of, what kind of neighbor I want to be. And part of me is almost scared that I won't be able to find what you and Pat created with my family. But part of me is also excited. If I could be even one half the friend you are, show one half the love you've shown me, I'll know I'm leading a good life. That I'm making the world a better place.

I love you, Aunt Bitha

Stephen

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Sweet Bitha, You were my first friend at CDS! When I was hired I had been working for the Mendez Foundation and with Bev. You and Bev were good friends so you and I connected instantly. You made me feel welcome, comfortable, and at home.
You attended my Pampered Chef bridal shower, watched my babies grow into toddlers, and became their favorite PE teacher of all time. As colleagues, we chaperoned countless field trips to the Florida Keys and Crystal River. We were roommates on one of my first trips to the Keys and I remember us longing for margaritas at the end of a long day. (Don't worry parents, we didn't indulge.) I also remember bathroom matches. What was that about?
You've been a mentor and friend to me over the last 20 years. You taught me how to be a caring teacher and take advantage of teachable moments, especially in regard to one's character. Your presence reminds everyone to be the best they can be and that it's okay to be silly and not take life so seriously. Your light shines through Kim, your grandchildren, the thousands of students you've inspired, and your teacher friends like me. I hope you are feeling our love! ❤️, Carrie

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Our family’s experience at CDS was so much better thanks to you, Coach Bitha.  I will never forget seeing you our very first year at the school sitting in the dunk tank with your “teeth” and crazy earrings—you had our hearts from the very start. You are so loved by your students and the parents alike.  The entire CDS community is so blessed to have you in our lives as a teacher, an athletic supporter, and a role model on how to have fun in life and not take things too seriously. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for caring for our children like your own while encouraging them to be their best selves. You are the BEST!  Love you ❤️ Trish Brynjolfsson and Family

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hey coach. i miss you. i never had a dull moment in P.E with you. were all praying for you i hope you feel better. love you and miss you

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You always make everyone happy and are always a fun person to be around. You made elementary PE something special to look forward to. Lots of love, Addie Mae

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I love your spunky spirit and "hysterical jokes" - you are AMAZING!  Please know that I am praying for you, sweet Bitha!  Also, our little ECC students are sending you big hugs!

Love you lots!!!!!  ❤️

~Teresa Krig

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You were Anna's first volleyball coach and she had a blast!  I remember when you whipped out those famous teeth at the sports banquet and ALL the girls roared with laughter.  Thanks for making our days fun and bright.  You are the best!
Debra, Anna & Grace

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You are a light that has brightened the lives of countless people, and I am so grateful that I was your student. You are a fountain of wisdom, confidence, and fond memories that I will cherish forever. I will always remember the lessons from volleyball and the joys of the simple things. You are amazing, and you are beautiful! Thank you so much for always making me smile. You are one of the most beautiful, inspiring, phenomenal people I've met, and I am so grateful that you were my coach.
You are so loved, God bless

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Mel- I will never forget when my mom pulled up to the campus on Michigan Avenue to drop me off for my sixth grade year and you opened the car door with your fabulous teeth!!! Always making me and everyone else smile. I had the great pleasure of meeting you back when I was in sixth grade and then I was blessed to be able to teach along side you. You had an amazing way of teaching our children valuable lessons, all with a smile and a bit of laughter.

Ryan-Coach, I was lucky enough to
be a student at CDS when you started and have loved and admired you every day since. Your ability to exude kindness, caring, and humor to your students is what makes you simply wonderful. There wasn’t one day at school where you weren’t smiling, being silly, or getting someone else to laugh. Every person who has gone through those doors at CDS is better because they got to have you in their lives.

Myself, Melissa, and Charlotte are sending you all of our love, support and prayers of strength.

Thank you for being you. We love you.

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Bitha- thank you for taking both your fellow faculty and your students into your heart and pumping them up with confidence and spirit. May all of the joy you have shared with us over the years be visited upon you seven fold in peace and blessings.
-the Hsu’s

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Coach, what can I say.  Other than thank you for being that teacher that all the kids loved. Thank you for being that crazy teacher that had outfits for every occasion, you had the wigs, the teeth, the accessories.  My kids begged me to get the day at the auction with you and Coach Tippet, they still talk about how
Much fun they had 9 years on. You are an inspiration to all. You sure made an impact on my boys lives and for that I am forever grateful. Love you Coachxxx

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Coach,

There are very few people in this world - let alone teachers who can constantly bring an abundance of joy to people's faces. You are one of the special ones. Thank you for putting a smile on my face as well as many other kids' faces every single day! Its difficult to measure the impact one smile can have - but I can truly assure you that it meant more to all of us than you ever imagined. Your goofy and quirky attitude allowed everyone to be themselves and feel loved regardless of where they came from. Praying for you to be strong and CDS is not CDS without Coach Woodrich.

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All of my BEST memories during my time at CDS are because of you. You always found a way to make me laugh. Thank you for being your kind, silly, and supportive self. Middle school wouldn’t have been the same without you. You truly are one of a kind and I am lucky to have known you!

Love,
Alissa (Eberbach) Sofia

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You will always have a special place in my heart forever. All of the fun memories we made together from P.E. to pep squad. You are the best!

Love,
Brit-Brit Bergin

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Your positivity, sense of humor and fun-nature made you stand out and my kids loved having you as their coach. Not only did you make the kids laugh, but you made the parents laugh too. I recall being at several morning openings where you would get up to make an announcement and always seemed to throw a joke or two in. We are thinking about you and praying for you.
The Tripp Family

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Thank you for being such a fierce, wonderful educator and human being! You’ve made a difference in so many people’s lives! We love you❤️
The Goldens

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Bitha,
You have touched so many lives with your love of sports, your dedication to children, your respect and appreciation for others, and your joy for life.  Everyone who had the privilege to know you has been positively impacted by your touch.  We love you!
Barbara Johnson

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Coach Woodrich,

Thank you for making my life at CDS brighter. From 1st grade through graduation, there was always a smile on your face and a bright, happy personality to have a chat with or say hi. I’ll never forget all those jokes, silly faces, your crazy outfits on spirit days, capture-the-flag where you’d give commands in Spanish and we’d all say them with you, and good times in PE. Your mark on the CDS community and my formative years will never be forgotten. Thank you for everything, Coach.

With love,
Evan Blazowski

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I love you more than words can express. So many shared adventures and shenanigans. You touch my soul. I’ve gathered some memories. I hope they bring a smile to your heart. I love you dear friend. BaBa

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Words can not describe the impact you have had on me and my family's life. It started with you just being Coach, the fun, loving, and happy coach my kids adored. Then we became neighbors!! I will never forget you and Pat picking us up on our dock for our first offical boat ride on Lake Keystone. We really live in Paradise!!! I cherished our walks (with all the pups) and talks about raising kids and just life. I will forever have the best memories of you bringing Keegan to our house for Halloween!! Your an amazing mom and Grandmother. I am so blessed to call you a friend.
Love always Nicole, Jeff, Jared and Maddie

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From Lessons Learned in Life Inc:
“…what really matters is not what we got, but what we shared; not our competence, but our character; and not our success, but our significance.”  Bitha, you have LIVED this life!  May you now be wrapped in the love of all whose lives you touched. Smile, laugh, and enjoy the memories.
May God bless you and your family.

Deb Galovic

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Thank you for always having a smile on your face!

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Thank you for always having a smile on your face!

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You have had such an impact on our family. You have taught both of our children and Todd and I had the pleasure of working with you for so many years! Thank you for always being so positive and making everyone laugh day after day! We love you and are keeping you in our prayers!
With love,
The Broyles Family

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I am a better person and educator because of you Coach.

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I am a better person and educator because of you Coach.

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Memorable, significant, and a constant joy to work with. Professional Development was always entertaining.  A whirlwind that always made me smile or shake my head. Your advice in my hardest time was invaluable. I am so fortunate to cross paths with you Bitha.

-Bryan

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Bitha, I will always treasure those days at Carson Newman where we met. I loved being on the volleyball and basketball teams with you…and sharing almost every PE majors class with you. You are one of a kind…so talented in sports but even more, so good at life. Your enthusiasm and positive energy are contagious and motivating!  And those Fun Days we shared with Barbara, Libby and Martha were the best, right?!  Getting to know you all over again, I found that you had not changed at all. You were still the Bitha I remembered from college days!  “You my friend”. (I signed that to you)Never will there be another “B”. Love you so much!
Sharon

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I am very fortunate to have met you at CDS. Your enthusiasm and light are infectious. My girls ask about you often. They always said that you were the best part of their day. When we run into you at our local grocery...its like a celebrity sighting. We want you to know we are thinking of you, praying for you, and sending all our love.
Love Much and Always,
The Nelson Girls (Paige Kate and Jill)

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Dear Bitha,
Love to you and your family. You are one amazing lady! Joy and laughter and fearlessness are the gifts and inspiration you give to everyone you meet. Just as you have always lifted others, my prayers are for strength, love, comfort, and peace for you and your family. Sending all my love. -Amy Callahan

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Dearest Bitha,
There is not ONE person who has ever met you who wasn't absolutely blown away with your magnetism and energy. There has never been a time that you haven't had me in stitches during our conversations and coaching together. You have a light that will shine on forever. I am confident I will never meet anyone like you again in my lifetime. Love, Jamie Kiner

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Of all the amazing things that you did, I still remember you wearing those ugly plastic teeth at school events. The kids loved it, the parents even more so. Our girls are so much better for you being part of their lives at a crucial point in their lives. Hugs and kisses from the Schweitzer Family.

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You were one of my earliest examples of someone who I felt truly was rooting for me and wanted the best for me. I’ll always be so grateful for that. Thank you for your humor, your positivity, your encouragement over the years. I still hear you yelling Oooooodddddiooooossssoooooo at the pickup line. Forever loved.
-Claire Spitale (Odioso)

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Bitha...
Reading this board, this quote speaks to me so much about you! You have always had your finger on the pulse of all 3: your love of life, laughter, and exuberance have brought a lifetime of joy to so many. I love that Facebook has kept us peeking in on each other's lives. ♥️ I'm pretty confident that every day you have been on this planet, you have made someone smile or made their day in your special way. Your joy is contagious and I'm so glad to have been touched by it (and YOU) in our CDS days.
Much love,
Vicki Dabrowka

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Most of the things that we desire in life are expensive. But truth is that the things that really satisfy us are absolutely free love, joy and laughter. – Dilip Kumar 

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I second everything said here! What beautiful tributes to the influence you have had on so many; we all are so lucky to know you and better because of you. At CDS, you brightened our days with your positivity and silliness and cared for each one of us. You are truly the best!
Love you,
Rachel (Odioso) Cruz