How appropriate after writing my last entry about my own aunthood that I write an entry to celebrate the life of my Great Aunt Gladys, who died Saturday at 95 years old, surrounded by family from all over the country. Her ashes will be buried with my Grandma Rhoda, her sister.

If I can rustle up a picture of her I will certainly post that, but for now, here’s the note my Dad received from his cousin:

“Good morning! Just to let you know my mother passed on Saturday, April 8, about 11:15…what a passing! Her children, many of the grandchildren (from as far as Texas and Maryland) were here to see her before she went…we probably drove the nursing home people nuts, but they were very good about it; especially one granddaughter who brought a 6 month old baby…everyone there loved that! Last evening, of course, Frank cooked for the multitude and we had fun looking at Mother’s picture books…she certainly was the family record keeper..guess the rest of us will have to start paying attention. Her memorial service will be here at St. Patrick’s Tuesday, April 11 at 9 am…scheduling is difficult right now because of holy week, but our pastor is very accommodating…just want to let you know. We are all doing well; have some more planning to do today, but know mother lived 95 good years. Love, Joan”

I can’t imagine living a longer more fruitful life, knowing that even in death your life will be celebrated. If only we are all lucky enough to live such a life.