Give them eternal rest

My Aunt Doris passed away yesterday morning.  I cried when mom told me and at the same time, I rejoiced that she had passed on from this world and was no longer in any pain. 

I'm flying back to Virginia early tomorrow (Monday), returning late Wednesday.  My cousins and extended family were there for me and mom when Dad died, and I need to be there for them.

Aunt Doris had a steadfast faith, and her life reflected that faith.  She was also a lot of fun.  She supported my musical efforts, and bought a piano for their house when I was in my teens.  She often asked me to play, sing and play, or play for others to sing, which happened nearly every time we were at their house (at least once a week).  She also loved to play Scrabble and one of her favorite Scrabble games was when she beat me AND Joel -- here she was, a woman with a high school education beating a person with a PhD and another with two master's degrees in Scrabble!  She loved it and we loved it too because she took a gentle delight in the fun of it all. 

There's so much more I could say.  For example, I had no idea she volunteered with the Salvation Army until my last visit home, when I saw the recognition plaques on the den wall.  She gave generously of her time and talents to her church. 

Aunt Doris had a lovely soprano voice and I can't help but think that her voice is now in heaven's choir, praising her Lord and Savior.

Last Sunday I sang the "Pie Jesu" from the Fauré Requiem.  The last words of the text implore God to "give them eternal rest."  Aunt Doris is resting now. 

Comments

[mosker]

I'm so sorry.

[Shari]

My prayers are with you and your family.

[melanie]

I'm so sorry for your loss - thank you for introducing your aunt to us. She was a lovely, lovely woman!

[PlazaJen]

I'm so sorry. I know your family will appreciate you being there, and it always helps to be with the people who knew our loved ones as well as we did! Safe travels.

[Suzanne]

I am thinking about you during this difficult time and sending my heartfelt sympathy. Holding you in my thoughts - Suz

[Mary]

I am sorry for your loss. She sounds like a great lady; I am so glad you have those good memories to hang on to. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.