People

Heart of the Shakers gone, community keeps faith

When Shakers die, they believe a spirit guide, another Shaker, arrives to take their soul to heaven.

For Sister Mildred years ago, Brother Ted came. For Sister Ruth, it was Sister Mildred.

When Sister Frances Carr died Monday, nearly 90 years old and one of just three Shakers left in the world, it was Sister Mildred who arrived again. The women had been close in life — like mother and daughter — and their reunion at Carr’s passing was expected. Keep reading