Johanna G. Avritt

Our Mother Johanna G. Avritt was born in the medieval German town of Bruchsal, Germany on November 5, l927. She remained a true Scorpio the rest of her incredible life. She saw World Word II and post war Germany as a child growing up and never forgot the friends and families lost. In 1947 she met Willis D. Avritt, our father and a U. S. soldier, and soon after began her life in the United States as a “war bride”. A new country became her home—she became a proud American citizen and embraced all things American. Rock and Roll, American Country Music in the 1950’s—radio and records were her early friends. She studied our school books to learn the language, read newspapers to understand the politics, and never missed an Election Day vote. She loved her family, friends, and all creatures on this earth. We often compared her to a “momma cat”…furiously protective of her family and those she loved. A love of ballet inspired her to design and sew the most intricate and beautiful ballet tutus and costumes for children in the ballet recitals whom could never afford to pay for such artistic work. The Nutcracker Ballet was a favorite. Our dresses were always hand sewn and fitted. What a shock when we started to buy clothing at stores and nothing fit quite right! Homemade German Chocolate cakes were a specialty for all birthdays. She enjoyed baking and cooking and often told us “ You feed whomever and whatever comes to your door”. Many a feral cat was fed at our Mom’s back door.

She adored her grandchildren Joseph Chagra, Jr., Samantha Chagra Wood (Barrett), A.J. Messer and Alexa Messer, and taught each one how to swim. Luckily she met and enjoyed her great grandchildren L.J., Evan and Elizabeth Grace Wood, and Landon Brudahl and her furry grandchild Fiona.

As her daughters, we will always smile when a Dallas Cowboys football game is aired. She had a love hate relationship ongoing with them. Tennis, swimming, and bridge gave her years of enjoyment as a participant and later as a viewer. As our German grandmother would tell us when we were children… “When the sun sets with all the pinks and oranges in the sky…the Angels have started baking for the coming morning.” We know our Mom has become one of those Angels.

We would like to thank our husbands, Alan Russell and Albert Messer, for their support and all the wonderful times they shared with our Mother. The professional and compassionate nurses and staff at Monte Vista became our trusted friends during her palliative care there. If anyone wishes to donate in Johanna Avritt’s memory, please consider the El Paso Holocast Museum, the Humane Society of El Paso, or any of the many animal rescue organizations in need.

We have attached a heartfelt and lovely tribute written by Samantha Chagra Wood . Thank you for reading about our beautiful blue eyed Mother. Patty C. Russell and Sandy A, Messer.

Services provided by Martin Funeral Home, Resler location. Thursday, August 5, 2021 5pm-6:30 pm, Reception to follow.

Today, after months of fighting, my very special little Grandma went to Heaven. She was feisty, INCREDIBLY thoughtful and generous; the biggest animal lover and care-giver I have ever known (only competition being my mom) and fed animals all over town; she was always baking cakes and food for everyone she knew (oh how I will miss the world’s best German Chocolate cake), she loved the Cowboys and watching tennis, swam every day she could, rode her stationary bike for hours, and had so many opinions! And she was the MOST amazing Grandma and Great-Grandma ever.

She lived during times, and endured things, I can't imagine.

She had no filter - which I happen to adore- even though I didn't always like what came out of her mouth!! Her honesty could shock you, and also completely make your week, as you knew whatever she said, she truly meant! And with great pride, she told me recently that she raised the two most amazing daughters- I couldn't agree more!! My mom and aunt have given up the last several months to spend every meal and every extra minute they have by her side.

She kept her sense of humor up until the last days, and never skipped a day of asking about all her grandkids and great-grandkids.

We were SO blessed to have this precious lady in our life for so many years, and we will miss her more than we can say. I love you so much Grandma- I hope you are having fun flying with the angels. Until we meet again…

A HUGE thank you to all our friends and family that have prayed with us, laughed and cried through her stories with us, loved us, helped watch my kids/ dogs so I could go be there, cooked us meals and show such amazing support. We are so grateful to you all too!!

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.MartinFuneralHomeWest.com for the Avritt family.