Memory of Late Pottstown Resident and Teacher Honored with Little Free Library in Virginia

Deen Wentz, right, and her family with the Little Free Library dedicated to her the memory of her mother, Ana Ravelo-Ortiz.

Blogger's Note: The following was provided by Dena Wentz

There is a new Little Free Library located in Richmond, Virginia in memory of Pottstown resident Ana Ravelo-Ortiz.

I dreamed about doing something in memory of my mother that would make an impact in the community so my husband and I donated a LFL to Henrico County Parks and Recreation, in Richmond VA and we are so excited about the grand opening on Aug 28th. 

Ana Ravelo-Ortiz did in 2007

We all three have chosen the little free library movement as a way to remember her. My library was just installed last week and we are planning a celebration in Richmond at the county park to where we donated it. So far, I have received a great community response!

What I thought would be cupcakes and balloons has turned into donations from 20 businesses, two local children’s authors and more. This celebration will include cupcakes, storytime by two children's authors from Richmond VA, a book collection and giveaways from a local (Short Pump/Richmond) supporting businesses.

Ana Ravelo-Ortiz was a resident of Pottstown, PA for nearly ten years before she passed away unexpectedly from an acute illness at Pottstown Memorial Hospital in 2007. 

She was only 59 years old, a full-time teacher at Norristown Middle School and beloved mother to three adult children: Jennifer Black of PA, Dena Wentz of VA, and Jamie Swick of FL. 

Our goal is to honor my mother and remember her with this gift to Henrico County Parks and Recreation and to promote literacy, kindness, and community.