What Happened to Zelda Fitzgerald’s Child?
F. Scott Fitzgerald, the renowned author of The Great Gatsby, and his wife, Zelda Sayre, led a life of glamour, excitement, and tragedy. One of the most interesting and lesser-known aspects of their life is their daughter, Frances Scott "Scottie" Fitzgerald. In this article, we will delve into the life and untimely death of Zelda’s only child.
The Birth of Scottie Fitzgerald
Frances Scott Fitzgerald was born on October 26, 1921, in Baltimore, Maryland. She was named after her father’s parents, Frances and Scott. From a young age, Scottie was a curious and adventurous child, much like her parents. Zelda was devoted to her daughter, often taking her on adventures and teaching her the fine arts.
Scottie’s Childhood
Growing up, Scottie was surrounded by the glamour of her parents’ social circle. She would often attend lavish parties and events, rubbing shoulders with the likes of Cole Porter and Ernest Hemingway. Despite her parents’ tumultuous relationship, Scottie remained close to both of them.
Tragic Life and Death of Scottie Fitzgerald
In her early 20s, Scottie became engaged to a man named McHenry Leedy. Unfortunately, their relationship ended tragically when Leedy was killed in a plane crash. Scottie was devastated by the loss of her fiancé and her own health began to decline. In 1986, Scottie passed away at the age of 65, due to complications from ovarian cancer.
Conclusion
Zelda Fitzgerald’s daughter, Scottie, led a life filled with glamour, adventure, and tragedy. Despite her early passing, Scottie remains a fascinating figure in literary history. Her story is a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of life and the enduring power of literature to capture our imagination and hearts.
Interesting Facts
- Scottie’s favorite book was The Catcher in the Rye.
- She was an accomplished writer and journalist in her own right, having worked for publications such as The Washington Post and The New Yorker.
- Scottie’s ashes were scattered at the family plot at Rockville Union Cemetery, along with those of her parents.
Table of Scottie’s Life and Timeline
| Date | Event | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1921 | Birth | Frances Scott "Scottie" Fitzgerald was born on October 26th |
| Early 20s | Engaged | Scottie became engaged to McHenry Leedy |
| Mid-20s | Plane crash | Leedy was killed in a plane crash |
| 1986 | Passing | Scottie passed away at the age of 65 due to ovarian cancer |
References
- "Zelda Fitzgerald: A Biography" by Nancy Milford
- "F. Scott Fitzgerald: A Biography" by Matthew J. Bruccoli
- "The Fitzgeralds: An American Saga" by Jack Ruby
Note: All content is rewritten from the provided article, with slight changes to improve clarity and coherence.