08/18/2026
Yesterday, I was honored to attend the End of the Fire for Anne, my sister-in-law’s sister, who was deeply involved in her Native American community and traditions.
In keeping with Anne's wishes, there was no conventional funeral. Instead, a sacred fire was lit at the time of her death and tended continuously for three days. Benches formed a circle around it, with an opening to the east. We entered from the east, walked clockwise, and were invited to place to***co, sage, or cedar shavings upon the fire while offering a prayer or blessing. At the western side of the circle rested some of Anne’s treasured ceremonial belongings—her headdress, drums, and eagle and owl feathers. The purpose of the fire was to guide Anne traveling from the west on her journey.
The eagle feathers pictured here held a particularly meaningful story. While visiting her tribe in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Anne asked whether she might receive eagle feathers for use in her ceremonial performances. Within days, a juvenile Bald Eagle was tragically struck by a vehicle, and Anne was entrusted with portions of its wings. She carried and cared for those feathers with great reverence.
At the end of the third day - yesterday, the fire was extinguished, bringing the gathering—and a beautiful time of remembrance, prayer, and farewell—to a close. It was quite moving to hear her friends and family talk about her - she was a character and wonderful person. When the time came for the fire to die, a light rain begin to fall just for a few minutes. I was grateful to be welcomed into such a meaningful ceremony and to have the opportunity to honor Anne’s life.
Godspeed Anne and fly with the Eagles.
