Where I Live: Amid grief, Southside resident found her way back home to Fort Worth

By Amy Antonmarchi

For over three decades, my husband and I raised our three daughters in the Fort Worth and Keller area. Life was full — family gatherings, school events and the everyday rhythm of love and laughter. 

But in just a short span, everything changed. 

I lost my mother to cancer, and only four months later, my brother passed unexpectedly. As we were still reeling, my husband faced serious heart issues, prompting us to move closer to downtown Fort Worth to be near the Medical District. In a beautiful twist of fate, all three of our daughters began settling in that area and starting families of their own.

When my husband recovered, we were hopeful. But during the COVID-19 pandemic, we learned he had colon cancer. Despite our prayers and his strength, he passed away a year after his diagnosis. After 32 years of marriage, I was suddenly alone — and lost.

First, I moved to Grand Prairie to stay with a friend, unsure of my next steps. I leaned heavily on my faith, my Bible and the quiet comfort of prayer. Slowly, I began to feel my heart pulling me back to the place where so many memories had been made — Fort Worth.

For about 18 months, I have lived in a cozy Historic Southside home, where I rent a room. It’s perfectly nestled between my daughters’ homes and just a short drive to all five of my grandchildren. I love when they come over to play, and we live close to so many gems like the Fort Worth Zoo and the Trinity Trails. I’ve come to cherish the small local businesses and the genuine sense of community here.

My neighbors come from all walks of life, yet we’ve built a bond. Recently, when a stray dog showed up at our doorsteps, each house pitched in to care for her and find her a home. That’s the kind of neighborhood this is — people show up for one another.

Now, I’m searching for a local church where I can continue to grow, give back and become even more rooted in the community I love. Fort Worth isn’t just where I live — it’s where I’ve found myself again, and I’m proud to call it home.

Amy Antonmarchi works for a logistics company delivering freight in Fort Worth. She’s lived in Historic Southside for about 18 months.

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