Wednesday, November 25, 2020
I composed some thoughts about Nan (Betty) that I would like to share to help all remember her with positivity.
My condolences to all,
Mark
grandson
--------------------
My grandmother was a strong woman. A welcoming woman. And a proud woman. She encouraged me to be my best. She celebrated the victories of her family and friends. She encouraged us all to aim a little higher… and was not ashamed to do so.
My grandmother cared for her people. Perhaps what some would call ‘tough love’, but she always cared. I could tell - and perhaps you could too.
My grandmother believed in the life beyond death. In God. In faith. I pray that she is in that better place of happiness now, and beyond pain. I hope that she has been reunited with those that have gone before her… before us.
I am sure that we each remember a slightly different person. A younger person. A growing person. A person shaped by the challenges of life. An older person of fewer but wiser words.
My memories often centre around... ginger ale, instant coffee, card games, accounting (I do like my numbers), lottery tickets, Trident gum, the 6 o’clock news with a copy of the Telegram tucked somewhere nearby and maple ice cream. Around well-knit sweaters and well-repaired clothes. Around early Saturday evening Mass.
My wife Rosemary remembers her as very grandmotherly: still full of energy and always looking ready for an occasion.
My children Lucy and Ellie remember her in their own way: her smile, her welcomes and endless supply of treats, her thimble collection, her walker/seat and her fancy ‘hotel’ (Karwood) with the beautiful fish tank and endless corridors and open play areas.
Regardless of what we all remember, I am sure we all find ourselves better off by having known, loved and been loved by Elizabeth Fitzgerald.
May you Rest in Peace, Nan.
