Mommy, you've only been gone to your heavenly home since January, and I want to acknowledge you as being the best mother, father, and friend you could have been to me. You made my life special.
As I write this tribute to you, light, frivolous moments cause me to smile. So many memories flitting through my mind.
When I was six-years-old, we lived in Florence, South Carolina. One of my best memories was you making me a pretty, pink cotton dress, accented with a big bow in the back.
As your daughter, I thought you were the best cook. You made the best fried chicken, rice and gravy, and collard greens. With your baking, no one could make a jelly or coconut cake and sweet potato pudding like you. Just thinking about your cooking and baking makes my mouth water.
When we moved to Middletown, Connecticut, I’ll always remember the special birthday gift you gave me when I was in the fourth grade. I was so proud of my beautiful watch with the purple velveteen wrist band until my classmate during recess kicked a ball that hit my wrist while playing kickball and my watch broke.
All of my life, you made me feel special. You made our family a cohesive unit. No matter what I asked for, you gave it to me if you could afford it.
I’ll never forget when I was a teen and asked, “Mommy, will you drive me and several of my girlfriends to Bristol to see the singing group, Little Anthony and the Imperials?” He was and still is one of my favorite rhythm and blues groups. Without hesitation, you said, “yes.”
As a teen, I didn’t think about it, but now that I recall that evening, I wonder how many parents would have taken a bunch of teenage girls to an out-of-town concert. Since the show was in the evening, you slept in the car until the concert ended. What a sacrifice you made for me and my friends.
You wanted me and my siblings to have exposure to a variety of music such as jazz, rhythm and blues, and gospel. I appreciate you taking us to Radio City Music Hall in New York City. Afterwards, you’d treat us to the Gaiety Deli where I’d order a pastrami sandwich along with Rugelach or a slice of three-layer chocolate cake for dessert.
I’m so thankful how you made it possible for me to taste an array of gourmet cuisine from countries such as Germany, France, and Italy. You knew the importance of showing me how to set a table and understanding what utensils to use when eating in restaurants.
On your days off from working as a nurse, you’d take our family to Wadsworth Falls, Chatfield Hollow and Hammonasset Beach State Parks. On Easter, Mother's Day and other holidays, we would go to Hubbard Park where there was a bandstand with live entertainment. You’d take fried chicken and your delicious potato salad and cupcakes or you’d cook fresh fish at the park. While you and other adults listened to music, the children swam, played games, or played on the playground equipment.
You followed your grandfather’s mantra, “you will get an education.” You encouraged and supported your children’s dreams and pursuits of higher education. Unfortunately, none of us followed your nursing career. Out of all your children, I came the closest to working in the medical field, choosing to work in health information management. I will always cherish the memories of working at the same hospital with you.
You were always there for me. It was a privilege, and a blessing having you live with me and my husband as you aged. You were such a delight and showed us so much love and kindness. I wouldn’t trade those precious years we had together for anything in the world.
When it came time for me to let you go on this earthly life, it was difficult, but I was at peace, knowing you had lived a full, enjoyable life. I will forever miss your sweet smile and twinkling eyes. I love you, Mommy. “Farewell my love,” you were the best!