Charlotte Colyer
To my many cousins and their families-
First of all, I want to tell you how sorry I am for not being able to attend Aunt Betty’s funeral. Wednesday was the first day of school for my eighth graders, and there was no way to leave lesson plans for their first few days. Anyway, I just hated not being able to be there. I haven’t talked to Sue yet, but Leo told me you guys were just so sweet and appreciative, and he was glad they were able to make the trip.
Aunt Betty (and Uncle Floyd) were our favorites! (I’m hoping this is a private message board or boy will I be in trouble with the masses . . .) But, seriously, I remember always feeling so much love and kindness (as well as teasing of course from Uncle Floyd) in your childhood home. Everyone was constantly smiling there and we always felt like you all sincerely enjoyed having us visit. It was a huge deal for me – all of us I know – to feel so loved and wanted! I can only imagine what it was like for Aunt Betty and Uncle Floyd to have all these little nieces and nephews come traipsing in year after year – always hungry and always loud; but if it bothered them, they never let us know. I want you guys to know that those memories are very special to me still.
I wish I had some words of wisdom about how to cope without your mother, but I don’t. I can tell you that you learn to live with the “hole” in your heart. That memories of your mom will make you smile as well as make you cry because you miss her voice and her warmth every day. And that eventually your grief will be outweighed by your appreciation of the many years you were able to share with her. When I shared the news of her death with my sons, and one asked, “Which one was she?” it was easy to differentiate her from the others. I told them she was the quiet one, the one with the kind eyes, the one with the beautiful kids and grandkids, the one that made us feel interesting and important. It comforts me to know that she and mom are once again united. We are looking forward to seeing you guys next summer at the reunion. I hope we have a great turnout. Know that all of you will be in my prayers in the difficult year ahead. Thank God for big families!
Love,
Charlotte