An Interview with Amy Abott
by Jennifer Parker
Amy Abbott is a newer member of Unity, which is grand because I like to include newer people as well as “older” members (in length of membership, not age!). I know Amy from our joint work on the Care Team. She is the one that makes sure everyone receives a birthday card. This was my first interview to be done by zoom and it worked great, so that is an option when it’s hard for someone to do an in-person visit at church or another location.
What would you like to share with the community about your life?
“I grew up in a close family, mom, dad, one brother, and two sisters. My dad was in the air force and flew B52 bombers during the Cold War era. We traveled a lot and they were all born in different states. When he left the Air Force, he worked as a pilot for American Airlines. They settled down in Denton, Texas, where they bought a farm.” Amy was nine and thought life on the farm was interesting. Everyone helped care for the animals when he was flying, which included cows, sheep, goats, rabbits, and quail.
“We were also very involved in the Southern Baptist church and went at least three times a week. If you had sports or choir, you even went more often. Mom was a gifted musician and sang at different places, so mom and dad would travel some together.”
“I got my B.S. in nursing at Texas Women’s University in Denton. I spent my last two years of clinicals in Dallas, TX.” Amy said she loves to help people in their time of need, and she found nursing very rewarding.
“I was married for 15 years. We had two children before divorcing in 1998. I enjoy a wonderful relationship with my children to this day.” Amy’s son DJ recently moved here from Texas. Her daughter Allison is a teacher at Madison Waldorf school, which Amy thinks is a wonderful school.
“I worked in I.C.U. for twelve years, research for seven, then cardiac cath lab and cardiac rehab until I retired for a total of thirty-eight years of nursing. I retired in 2022 and moved here to be near my daughter. I now help take care of her two children.”
What brought you to Unity?
“Six months after moving to Madison, I was feeling unwell emotionally. I looked for a church that was inclusive and welcoming and I found Unity. Not long after coming, Ann Zenner asked me to join the Care Team, which has been a lovely experience.”
What are your favorite activities at Unity?
“I love Sunday services, the message and the music, and the people. I feel God moving through the people here providing me nourishment upon which I depend for my daily spiritual health. I have made good friends who support and encourage me.”
“The church has grown so much in the three years that I’ve been here. I’m excited that we have Rev. Debra. Her messages are amazing. Other great people step up when she is gone. I love hearing what the children are doing and the lessons and fun they have. And I love the people and places our church supports financially.”
“I enjoyed the book studies I’ve been to and the talent show was so much fun.” Caring for two of grandchildren keeps Amy busy and prevents her from participating in as many activities as she would otherwise do.
Is there anything you’d like to see Unity do that would make your experience even better?
Amy said she’s happy with everything and can’t think of anything to add.