Kate Fortner Biddulph
Kate Fortner Biddulph, 78, a resident of Sarasota, FL since 1974, formerly of East Moriches, NY, passed away Wednesday, January 27, 2021 in Sarasota. She was born January 16, 1943 in Scarsdale, NY to Edward and Naomi Fortner, now deceased.
Kate was an avid collector of many things. She loved her dolls, violet ‘pretties’, bells, and birdhouses. She took great pride in finding the perfect spot for each and every treasure she found and loved to tell stories of how she found them.
On a beautiful day you would find her outside dragging bags of mulch and bricks into her back yard. She had an incredible green thumb and could bring life back into the most pitiful greenery that was brought to her for revival.
Her greatest treasure was her family. She loved to spoil her grandchildren. During her grandson’s 1st year, she stayed with her daughter in TN and was able to enjoy all of his “firsts”. When mommy wasn’t looking, Granny Kate would whisk him off to dress him up and take ridiculous photos that mommy would find later.
Known to many as “Mommy Kate”, she loved to be surrounded by her friends. Lunches and flea markets were always a favorite. Always dressed to a “T” with matching jewelry, her face and hair always perfectly done regardless if she was headed to a girls day out or Wal-Mart.
Her passing will leave a hole in the hearts of many. May it bring comfort to all knowing she is back in the arms of her son Guy and her beloved Jimmy.
She is survived by her loving daughter, Heather Parham (William) of Portland, TN; her faithful companion, Tinkerbell Rose; niece and nephew, Jill Arslan (Ender) of Sarasota, and Jeffrey Fortner of Plano, IL; as well as two grandchildren, Monica and Carl.
Kate was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James K. Biddulph in 2005; a son, Guy Stelzenmuller; as well as a brother, Edward Fortner.
A Celebration of Life will be held in Sarasota at a later date. Details to be announced via www.MullinsMemorial.com
Memorial Contributions in memory of Kate Fortner Biddulph are suggested to Tidwell Hospice, 5955 Rand Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34238 or Gilda’s Club Middle TN, 1707 Division Street, Nashville, TN 37203.
Mullins Memorial Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Cape Coral, is entrusted with final care.
Dear Kate you will be missed. Love and prayers to Heather.
My deepest condolences.
A beautiful memorial Heather. I have fond memories of Kate when she was my step mom. Always so kind. Always so beautiful.
The world lost a beautiful soul, a wonderful lady
Though I only met Kate briefly, she made a lasting impression in my life. Kate was filled with warmth and kindness. She was the kind of woman who made you feel as though you’d always known her. I remember feeling really special that she would share a doll from her collection with me when I was a teenager. May her joy live on in those who loved her and may she rest in peace. Praying for you, Heather and family.
I am so Thankful that God brought us together so many years ago. You my Beautiful Kate, YOU made me a Better Person. I Will Always Love You. 💘 My heart is broken and my tears won’t stop!
My Bestest friend I will miss our good times we have had for 44 years. We have laughed, we have cried. drank a few cocktails together, gotten in to some mischief like the night we were Roller Derby queens with our sponsor Tom. You were always an inspiration to me. Im glad you are with Jimmie and Guy. Be a good girl. Ill always keep you in my heart. Love you Miss Kate.
Your friend TOO TALL
Mommy Kate You have been a Ray of Sunshine in my life since I met you thirty two years ago…I will Always Treasure Our Friendship and the Holidays and Fun laughs…Heather I will always care about You and the Wonderful Photos …thank You..May God always Bless You and Jilly..I thank You for being so kind and patient and Loving with Kate
RIP
My sincerest sympathy for your loss Heather. Your mom was a very special lady and will truly missed by many.
Dear Kate,
I will forever cherish all of the wonderful memories shared with you and my Aunt Gail. I can still hear all of the laughs when I close my eyes and think about the fun I witnessed you two having together… especially Tinkerbell’s adoption! You brought special friendships to so many love to all that were blessed to have you in their lives.