Wednesday, March 21, 2018
My family just found out this past weekend about Marie's passing. We are heartbroken that we didn't know sooner as we weren't able to attend Marie's services and pay our respects to such a special lady. Marie and my mother, Eleanor Sweeney, were dear friends. My Mom passed away shortly before Christmas and for Marie to now be gone...it doesn't seem possible. Marie was, quite simply, a wonderful friend to my mother. Mom and Marie were generous, strong, selfless women who devoted their lives to their families. They both had huge hearts and an incredible capacity to love. They had so much fun together...at line dancing class, going to musical shows, traveling to New York City, and talking for hours on the telephone. And oh did they love to laugh! It was easy for my siblings and I to understand why Mom loved Marie...and we all grew to love Marie too. Just a few weeks before my mother passed away, Marie went to visit her at the nursing home. It was like old times...Mom was thrilled to see her beloved friend and they shared so many happy memories.
To Marie's children and grandchildren...my brothers Jim and Raymond, my sister Donna, and I want to extend our sincerest condolences for your loss. We understand all too well the terrible pain and sadness that you are feeling. I'm sorry we weren't able to tell you in person how much Marie meant to our family. Marie was one-of-a-kind. And she was so proud of all of you...she spoke of you often with such love. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
I am so glad that my mother and Marie found each other in this life. And I wish with all my heart that these kindred spirits have now found each other again in the afterlife and are laughing together, smiling, and watching over those of us who loved them so deeply. Two very bright lights have left this world. They were gifts beyond measure. Rest in peace, dear Marie...
