Memere passed away this morning around 2:50 am. I actually left about 12 hours before then to head back to Atlanta. I didn't think she'd make it much longer, but it was all uncertain and I'd been in St. Pete since Monday morning. It was tough to say goodbye, but I had a great day with her Monday. She was still doing pretty well then, and she even stayed up late with us Monday night. Everyone that was going to come had been there (6 children (and spouses/ex-spouses), 14 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren, her brother and sister-in-law, favorite niece, priests and others from church, friends, etc.). We'd begun 24 hour care with Hospice nurses about 36 hours before she passed, so the nurse on duty woke up my mom and aunt when Memere's breathing changed. They woke up my uncle and my 2nd cousin (Memere's niece), and they were all with her as she went to a better place. Jeannine spoke to her in French (Memere's first language) and my mom told her to go home and that her parents, husband, brothers and sisters, and my dad were waiting for her. Shortly after that, she took her final breath. I am so thankful that it was peaceful and she was not in any pain. Also, a sweet lady from the church came yesterday to give her communion, and we sat and prayed the Rosary. I have not done that in years, and it was powerful and healing to do it.
She will be greatly missed, but I am just so thankful I had her in my life for 27+ years and that we shared such a great relationship. Until the glorious day when we meet again...
My cousin, Marissa, and Memere at our wedding.
My bub seating Memere and Gram at our wedding.
Picture from an article in the Evening Independent in 1976. We don't look alike or anything, do we?
8 comments:
Oh gosh, I'm crying after reading that- you are a great granddaughter thats for sure! I'm so so sorry for your loss, losing a grandparent that you are so close to is very difficult. You and your family are in my thoughts.
Your family will be in our thoughts and prayers! She was a special lady... I'm sorry for your loss, but I know you'll see her again!
Kristin, I'm so sad to hear your news. I think your memere seemed amazing; she reminds me of my grandma who passed away a few years ago. They'll meet up, I'm sure ;) I know it's going to be tough, but I'll be sending lots of prayers your way.
I can't believe the resemblance between the two of you from that article! I never realized you took after her so much. She was such a sweet and spunky lady, she will definitely be missed.
Kristen,
She is beautiful!! Honest to goodness, a gorgeous lady! I'm sure just as gorgeous on the inside as well. I'm so sorry you had to go through this. It's so hard to lose someone you love. I'm glad you were there with your family. My prayers are sent to you during your sad days!!
Kristin, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. She seems liked an amazing lady, and that she will be missed greatly. I will be praying for you and your family. Liftig you up and for blessings on your family!
Kristin...I'm so sorry to hear about your memere. Please know that your twin in DC is thinking about you. xoxo
I am so sorry to hear about this Kristin, but look how many great pictures and memories you have. Priceless!
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