October 8, 1944 – April 2, 2025
In Loving Memory of Edith Rand
It is with deep love and sorrow that we share the passing of Edith Augusta (Grasshoff) Rand of Reading, MA, who departed in her home from Lewy body dementia and Parkinson’s disease.
Edie’s life was a beautiful testament to kindness, devotion, and an unwavering love for both her cherished friends and beloved animals—especially her cats, who undoubtedly ruled the house. She had a sharp wit and a wonderful sense of humor, often finding joy in life’s little quirks and making those around her laugh with her quick comebacks and playful spirit.
Edie also had a legendary talent for stretching a dollar, turning frugality into an art form. She could spot a bargain from a mile away, had a knack for making things last well beyond their intended use, and firmly believed that a perfectly good piece of aluminum foil should never be discarded after just one use. Her creative money saving ways were both impressive and, at times, hilariously unconventional, – one of the many reasons she was so dearly loved.
A devoted and hardworking woman, Edie dedicated 36 years to Northeast Airlines, which later merged with Delta Airlines. More than just a career, it became a second family, where she built lifelong friendships. With her signature, grace, humor, and keen attention to detail, she excelled in various roles, ultimately serving as a Gate Agent at the Field Ticket Office (FTO). Her warmth, dedication, and leadership left a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of working with her.
Born to Frank and Lois (Moreside) Grasshoff, Edie was preceded in death by her brother, Alex Grasshoff, an award-winning director honored with both an Oscar and an Emmy, and his wife, Marilyn (Clark) Grasshoff. She was also predeceased by her sister, Yrsa Grasshoff, a dedicated professor. Both siblings made their homes in California. Edie’s dear cousin, Judy West, along with her husband, Rick, and three children, Vanessa, Nikalas, and Beckie, reside in Prince Edward Island, Canada. Among Edie’s greatest joys was her chosen child Brittany Smith-Hamlett, and Brittany’s son, Teddy, who brought endless light into Edie’s life.
Edie’s compassionate soul, boundless love, and the special bond she shared with her friends and animals will be treasured always. In her honor, a celebration of her beautiful life will be held later.
May her gentle spirit, sharp wit, and legendary thriftiness live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
In lieu of flowers, you are welcome to send a donation in the name of Edith Rand to one of her following favorite charities: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital 444 Danny Thomas Place Memphis, TN 38105 Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals 350 South Huntington Avenue Boston, MA 02130 or Torrance Educational Foundation P.O. Box 10280 Torrance, CA 90505 Beth Israel Lahey Philanthropy for Hospice 41 Mall Road Burlington, MA 01805 (781) 744-5333
