A Tribute

I first met Catherine Gordon Sweeney in August 2006, after David and I had dated for a couple months.  At the time she was 83 and living independently, though her family had recognized signs of Alzheimer's.  By the time David and I got married in June 2007, her Alzheimer's was apparent to everyone in her family.

Over the years, David has often said that he wishes I could have known Mommom before this disease crippled her memory and personality.  However, despite my lack of knowledge of the way Mommom used to be, the lady I've known for the past 6 years has been nothing but sweet and lovely, and I am thankful for the opportunity to have known her.

Mommom passed away last Sunday, May 20th, after a fall which had broken her hip.  Though we grieve for the empty place she has left in our lives, we are thankful that she is no longer in pain or confused.

Mommom and 4 of her 5 children, Catherine, Diane, Maureen and Jayne.

Being silly during the evening of her 85th birthday celebration.

Gathered around Mommom are her eight grandchildren, Steve, Christine, Mercedes, Marney,
Michael, Lisa, Jade and David, and her great-grandchild, Mia (one of Steve's children).

Mommom with me and Audra, celebrating Mother's Day on Saturday, May 12th.

Webster's describes a tribute as "evidence attesting to some praiseworthy quality or characteristic".  Due to my limited knowledge of Catherine G. Sweeney, I know that I could never come close to writing a tribute to her life.  Rather, I think of how loving and accepting David's family has been to me since I first met them, and know that the best evidence, the best tribute to her character, is the kindness that is ingrained in her four daughters, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Mommom, you will be missed!