Cherished Basketball Legend, Edwina Dennis, Passes at 91
A Legacy of Passion and Perseverance
Edwina Dennis, a beloved figure in the Evanston community, left us at the age of 91, leaving behind a legacy celebrated by many. Known for her passion, wit, and dedication to those around her, Edwina’s life was as much about the people she uplifted as it was about her time on the basketball court. Her story of determination began from a young age and resonated with everyone she met.
A Journey from Family Duties to Community Pillar
Growing up in a large family, Edwina often found herself responsible for her siblings, a role that shaped her nurturing spirit. Despite challenges such as dyslexia, she propelled herself into academia, graduating from Chicago Teachers College. These early life experiences laid the groundwork for her later work in Social Services, where she became a trusted and formidable supervisor, embracing the community with open arms.
The Basketball Court: Her Second Home
For two decades, Edwina made the Levy Senior Center her personal sanctuary, discovering a love for basketball that invigorated her soul. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, you could find her in the corner of the gym, donning knee braces and ready to share her thoughts on life and the game she loved. Her favorite message, “PASS THE BALL!” was both a call to action and a metaphor for her generous spirit.
Teaching Life Lessons and Building a Family
To her extended basketball family, she was much more than a player; she was a mentor, mother figure, and friend. Always armed with candid advice, her presence drew others in, despite her initial intent to stand apart. Edwina’s corner became a bustling hub of conversation, laughter, and life lessons, one where “PASS THE BALL!” was a rallying cry for camaraderie and connection.
Celebrating a Life Well Lived
Her 90th birthday was a jubilant celebration with teammates and friends, a testament to the deep affection held for her. Surrounded by those who’d become like family, Edwina was touched by the love and admiration, realizing her profound impact. As health challenges slowed her down, her spirit remained unyielding, buoyed by a tide of supportive messages, cards, and well-wishes.
As we mourn Edwina’s passing, we celebrate her indomitable spirit, imagining her now leading a celestial team with her trademark enthusiasm and passion. She leaves us with her timeless motto: “be careful, be cool, be safe,” words that will resonate within the halls of the Levy Center and beyond.
Her life reminds us of the warmth community brings and the ways in which one spirited individual can uplift, inspire, and forever touch the lives of those around them. As stated in Evanston RoundTable, Edwina’s journey taught a community the value of passion both on and off the court.
