Gary Harper
Joyce saved almost everything, as we became painfully aware of while cleaning out her condo. She had birthday cards, Christmas cards, etc from years gone by. I came across one card I had sent her after a visit last year. We had been talking about our family history and l followed up in my letter with, "I was thinking about one thing you said about how different things might have been if Dad, Odie, hadn't died so young. It undoubtedly would have, but what was real and constant was the love and guidance you gave me and all your kids throughout formative years. We were so lucky and blessed to have a "stay at home" mother who was always there for us. I still don't know how you two could raise five kids on that budget, but we always felt loved. You pointed us in the right direction, but didn't overdo it. We took some strange turns, but all in all, turned out OK. Thank you for the unconditional love."
Your son, Gary
I think it brought a tear to her eye, because she later said it is the same thing that Pastor Willy had mentioned in his sermon, to tell people you love them, don't wait. She loved her kids, Peter and David, who became her champions, and her Top of the World friends who became her surrogate family.
RIP Mom, you did a great job and made the world you touched a better place.
Gary Harper
