Love and Deepest Condolences

In October of 2016, I wrote a blog that shared part of a letter written by a friend that I hoped would offer worthy tribute to my cousin, Kathy. In 2018 I shared these same words with the minister who was to speak at my sister's funeral and the words were incorporated into her eulogy. Now in 2024, I share again in hopes that they will help one family in particular and others, no matter where, who are dealing with loss and grief. 

From that blog in 2016:

Many years ago when a dear friend of mine died most unexpectedly, someone forwarded to me a letter that he had written to one of his aunts and uncles following the death of their son.  The words of this letter have remained with me, as some things do from time to time, and today I want to share his idea with you.  I know that people of a certain age have the loss of loved ones in common, and it is my hope that his words will be a help to you at some point as they continue to comfort me. 

In this letter -- my friend wrote that he always found it to be important to take some of what is the best of the person you have lost and to make those qualities a part of who you are or of who you wish to become. In that way -- each one of us lives on in another. It is a bond of love and respect. There is no higher tribute.

~~~~~~

It is with great sadness today that I write in tribute to my friend and neighbor of many years -- Terry Colwell.  Those of you who knew her know that she was an extraordinary person -- a kind and gentle woman, but at the same time, a strong and fierce warrior woman.  I only hope that I will be able to emulate even a little bit of the best that was her and in that be able to live in ways that will be a tribute to her ... one of love and respect.

My love and deepest condolences to her family and her many friends.