Late last week we spent time in Iowa with Mike’s mom. She was nearing the end of her battle with ovarian cancer and had been taken to Hospice. We arrived in the wee hours of the morning with other family members.
I’ve sat here for awhile trying to figure out how to write this post. Then I remembered the letter Kay had written to us. I don’t know how she did that, knowing these would be her last words to us. We read it together as a family the night she died. It was beautiful and perfect and I hear her voice in every word.
A Little Note to My Family when I am gone…
I don’t want you to be sad. Just remember I am watching over you all. And think of what I might say, when you have problems. You know, I am very opinionated and might be a little bossy. Always stay close. It’s ‘family’ that counts and you can always count on them.
To my grandchildren, follow your dreams, pray and work hard. Be your own person. Don’t let others influence you. You all know right from wrong. I might not be here for all those special days in your life, such as graduations, getting married, new babies, etc. but I will be there in spirit. I will be watching (a very proud grandma).
Remember to ask for God’s help when you are in need. He is always there. I have been very blessed with great parents, sisters, a great husband and wonderful children and grandchildren. Also, lots of friends. I may not have lived to be 100 years, but my life has been full of lots of blessings, so don’t be sad, remember ‘I am always with you’.
Love & Prayers,
Mom (Grandma)
P.S: Patrick & Michael stay close. My biggest accomplishment in life was being, I hope, a great wife, mom & grandma.
Mike spoke at the memorial service. Again, I can’t express things better than him, so I’m including part of them here…
…Although she had struggles in her life with cancer and losing my dad 18 years ago; she would tell you she lived a perfect life.
At times over the last days, as mom struggled for life, I prayed and wished I could pick her up and take her to Heaven’s gate myself, but now I realize that it was up to my mom and God. Mom so loved life and her family that she wanted every second she could get with us, even if it was just to listen to us talk about our memories with her.
I love you, mom, and am thankful for every minute we shared; but I am even more thankful that today you are standing with Dad holding hands…
Growing up, my grandpa always told us as we left, “It’s never ‘goodbye’…always ‘see you later’.” I’ve said it to our kids, and Jake was adamant that we not say our “goodbyes” to Grandma, only “See you laters”.
So…see you later, Kay.
5 comments:
That was really touching, and she will certainly be missed by every one of you. What a lovely lady. I need to get a tissue now.
So beautifully written Kerry. It sounds like she had a very comforting faith to help guide her through her death. It also sounds like Mike did a beautiful job of speaking at the funeral. I will never fully understand where that strength comes from. My brothers spoke at my dad's funeral too, and I was amazed, and proud of them. You have been in my thoughts all week, and will continue to stay there. Warm hugs and love to all of the Murphy family.
Kerry, that was beautiful. It was nice that all of you were able to spend so much time with her at the end. Our thoughts are with all of you.
Beautifully said.
Very true and very heartfelt too. Your family has been in our thoughts all week as well. It's amazing where the strength comes from at these times and sounds like Mike found it with the support from his family.
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