Gertrude Rose Memorial

I was hesitant to make this post public, as death is a subject that for me (and most others) can be pretty unsettling. But in this case, I was happy to share moments from a day that I thought perfectly celebrated the memory of my grandmother, Gertrude Rose. She and my grandfather were in a tragic car accident earlier this year, and while my grandfather survived, my grandmother did not. Not a day goes by that I don’t miss her charming smile and compassionate spirit.

We had a memorial service at the church that not only had she attended – but had been deeply involved in for decades. I was surprised to see the sanctuary packed to the brim with people who loved and missed her – many people whom I’ve never met before. We waited to have the memorial service once my grandfather was well enough to attend. Not only was he able to attend, but he sang a beautiful old Irish folk song called “Danny Boy” – a song that she used to love to hear him sing to her. Needless to say, there was not a dry eye in the room!

No matter how many times it happens around us, death never seems to get easier. When it comes to the loss of my father, and now, my grandmother, it seems that the happy memories in photos – along with the memories in my mind – are what keep me moving forward. I’m filled with gratitude when I think about their positive influences in my life, and how their genuine hearts have actually pushed me to desire that same kind of character. I have much to be thankful for.