Marilyn Joyce Fitton

As most of you know, my Grandmother passed away. It was a sudden, unexpected event...that I am having a hard time processing. She lived a great life of 82 years...she got to watch her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren grow up. Letting go for me is easier knowing she is with my grandfather now, as she has missed him dearly the past few years. She also went in her sleep, no suffering. As I look at the positives of her life and her passing, I smile. It still hurts, and will for a long time, as there are days I still cry for my grandfather, but I understand the circle of life.

My father asked me if I could think of a few things I would want the pastor to say at my grandmother's funeral. I ended up sitting down and writing two pages worth. At that point I thought it would be better if I spoke. The bond my grandmother and I had was different than most, it was beautiful and I'll forever cherish and miss it.

Here's what I shared:

I'll forever remember spending many days and nights watching QVC or House Hunters...on mute, and talking about the jewelry we wanted or beautiful homes, wondering how those people could afford them! And let's not forget your infamous QVC notebook...

The many lunches at The Villager on Thursdays after your hair appointments. And you, every time complaining because it was too loud. Always ordering liver and onions because you wouldn't have it any other time...and heaven forbid you let me cook at your house. If it wasn't microwavable or It's A Good, we didn't have it. 

I always admired your ability to say how you felt or what you were thinking..even if the person you were talking about was at the next table. Because, even though you couldn't hear them...they heard you, trust me. 

Since as far back as I can remember you were always a part of my life. If I ever needed anything you were there, no questions asked. You and Grampy opened your home to me for a summer, bringing me to work, waiting until 6pm to have supper, which we all know was supposed to be at 5pm. Even waited up for me if I went out...just to make sure I was safe and sound. 

I'll miss our field trips to Augusta and Portland. You always in the back seat...and always making sure I knew the speed limit. Trying to have conversation about life, knowing you wouldn't hear me...we always made the best of it. 

Thursday lunches won't be the same. Watching QVC or House Hungers will probably make me cry for a while. But knowing you are back with the man that made you happy and who you so greatly missed these last three years, makes me smile. 

Before I say good bye, I want to say, "Thank You." Thank you for raising a boy who turned into my father, and has a heart as big as yours. Thank you for always being there for me and your family. Thank you, for being you, the woman we all loved, the mother, grandmother, and friend we'll all miss and cherish forever. 

Until we meet again... I love you Grammy. 

~Melissa