My Grandma

My sweet Grandma Shirley passed away a few hours ago. I have always had an especially close relationship to her. I have frequently heard that I look like her. And I hope I have her sense of humor because hers is clever and quick and she doesn't even have to think. She was just funny! I love her so much and am so grateful that her spirit is free from the body that was just worn out. 

When she turned 90 we gave her a scrapbook of our favorite memories with Grandma. I wrote the following and wanted to add it here, as it is exactly the sentiments I am feeling right now:


Grandma, I've always been a big fan of yours. My earliest memories of you are climbing into your lap while you sat in your bar stool, my tummy full of candy from the candy bowl, pink popcorn, and sandwiches made out of rolls. While growing up, we usually just saw you on Sundays and holidays so most of my memories of you are also memories of good food. Barbecues in the rain, Thanksgiving with Mrs. Bird asking "Whatareyoudoing?" while we "took the curse off the food," and hundreds of Sunday dinners.

I remember lots of laughing and listening to you and Grandpa's stories. I loved when the guitars came out, and we all enjoyed the music and singing together. I was proud when photo albums came out and people commented that I resemble you when you were younger.

I look forward to the day that our different ages no longer separate us, the day we will be together in Heaven, two women, two friends, our bodies unhampered by age or mortal cares, when we can enjoy an association as peers. We will laugh and laugh and laugh, I just know it! Even as a little girl I remember wishing I could play with the little girl that grew up to become my Grandma. So that is my birthday wish to you, Grandma, a wish for those future conversations in Heaven, when I can really get to know your soul. I love you so much and am so blessed to have you as my Grandma Shirley.

From Grandma's own words in her life story:

In thinking about how or when I got my testimony, it's something I've never really thought about. I've just always known that the church was true, and I can't remember when I didn't. It's just something I've had instilled in me all my life. I really don't think my testimony has ever been tested. It has just been something that I figured was, and is. I don't think I've ever had any occassion to doubt anything at all.