By Friday morning my mama’s oldest sister went to Heaven. This was not unexpected as she had been ill for the past 3 years. It still hurts though. She was one of my favorite people on Earth. I adored her. You see she wasn’t just my aunt. She was gran aunt. The title was her creation. After granny went to Heaven, she became a surrogate granny for me. She loved me well. Her guidance helped make me who I am.
Aunt Judy was just a call away. We talked at least once a week. I could never hide anything from her. She read me like a book. Aunt Judy never hesitated to tell me what she thought when I asked. Sometimes, I didn’t. If she thought I was being too hard on myself, she always let me know. Always in my corner she was one of my biggest cheerleaders. Aunt Judy thought I could do anything. Her love gave me courage.
She was a nurse and loved being my uncle’s wife. Their marriage is what I want for mine one day. The thought that she’s back in his arms makes me smile. Aunt Judy was strong and independent. She loved to have fun too. Her dancing and singing to Thriller in a department store makes me laugh to this day. Thinking of our trip to AFO Swartz makes me giggle because she put a pink boa around her neck with a big grin and my cousin snapped a picture much to her displeasure.
I’ll miss our talks and her wisdom. Her hugs were fantastic, and I’ll miss those too. Her unshakable faith in God is something I strive to have. I’m working on it. I want to have her heart for people too. An opportunity to help somebody was never missed. I don’t want to say goodbye to her. I don’t think I ever could. Knowing she’s whole and free is a comfort. Aunt Judy, I love you so much and I know you know that. Thank you for everything. I’ll carry your wisdom with me for the rest of my days until I can hug you again. Knowing you’re never far away is more than a little comforting. Stay close. I’ll continue to make you proud.
Love,
Stace
