Wednesday morning, I received sad news two-fold. First, I learned that Janet, one of my first cousins, whose health had been declining for several months, had passed away. Although we knew it was inevitable, we weren’t expecting it so quickly.
She lived nearby, and I always enjoyed our visits. I will remember her for her beautiful counted cross stitch work, which she had framed and displayed throughout her home, her corn pudding and the loving marriage she and her husband shared for 61 years.
Less than an hour after learning of Janet’s death, I had a call from Marshall. He and I text each other often, but phone calls between us are somewhat rare, so my “mom radar” activated, and I knew it was something important. He was calling to tell me that his grandmother had died.
I’d like to share a little about her with you.
“Granny” was born in the mountains of southwest Virginia in 1920. She and her husband were parents to four sons. Sometime in the mid 1950’s, her husband’s job brought them across the state to southeast Virginia.
I met her more than 45 years ago when I began dating her son, who would later become my husband and Marshall’s father. She made me feel welcome from our first meeting.
Granny was a kind woman with a strong faith. Many times, especially on holidays, she’d send a plate of food to an elderly neighbor who lived alone. If a stray kitty came to her door, it was homeless no more.
We lived about an hour away, so weekly visits on Sunday were the norm.
Granny & Grandaddy with Marshall
For Christmas, 1982, I gave Granny a doll that I had made. She loved dolls, and I think she approved of this one.
Even after my marriage to her son ended, she and I corresponded by mail. In one of her notes, she wrote that I would always be part of the family. She often asked Marshall to tell me to come see her.
So, two years ago, he went with me to visit her to celebrate her 95th birthday. I still recall her exact words when she opened the door: “My lands. I didn’t think you’d come”.
But her smile was quite a bit broader when she hugged Marshall.
And now, to end this somber post with a laugh…..a photo taken in 1972 of Granny and me. I don’t know that Marshall has ever seen this picture. (And let me just say that there were (very) short shorts under that “dress” I was wearing.)
Granny was a very special woman. I can’t say that I’ve ever known anyone with such a sweet, Christian spirit, forgiving nature and generous heart.
I’m glad she was part of my life, and my heart aches for her family as they face life without her.
~These Days Of Mine~
these days of mine 
I am so sorry for your loss. It’s always hard to cope with the loss of a loved one but those sweet memories we shared with them make the journey of healing easier. Beautifully written post. ❤️
I am so sorry for your loss. Its really hard to deal with the loss of a loved one but the memories we shared with them make the process of healing a little easier. Your post is beautifully written 🙂
Thank you so much for sharing Granny with us. I am so sorry for both of the losses in your life in such a short time. Prayers for all.
I’m sorry
what a wonderful testament to this lady. ❤
So saddened by your double loss. What a sweet tribute to both. …And that Granny’s faith and love are her hallmarks. On a side note….what an outfit – complete with boots:)
Sorry for your losses this past week Dianna…..Marshall’s Grandmom sounds like she was a special lady. Now about that outfit of yours from the 70s………. 🙂
Pam
So sorry to read this news, Dianna. I’m glad you were able to visit and keep in touch over the years. She sounds like a rare treasure.
A very beautiful tribute to a very special person.. We will all miss her, and Thanksgiving and Christmas will never be quite the same again ..
I’m so sorry for your losses. 😦
Your tributes to two precious people in your family’s lives are beautiful. May you find comfort in the good memories. Hugs.
Dianna, your tributes to both of your lovely ladies is wonderful. Chuck and I send our prayers and thoughts to you all. I love the 70’s look I did the same thing, believe it or not. Sure can’t do it now. lol ❤
I’m so sorry to hear of your loved ones passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
I am sorry for your losses. Thank you for sharing the photos, they were al nice.
I am so sorry for your loss. They sounded like two lovely ladies.
Granny sounds like one of those very special souls who grace our lives with their loving kindness and goodness. So sorry for Marshall’s loss of his grandmother, but oh, what sweet memories he will have of her. May God give his family and yours great peace and comfort during your time of loss.
Very sorry for the losses you are experiencing. My your writing help you and others.
Your relationship with Granny was so special and I am sorry for the double losses.