My Grandma passed away last Saturday. She was 89.
It’s crazy to imagine all the changes she witnessed, from when she was born during the Great Depression until now. It’s an entirely different world! I think she had a good life though. She was married (my Grandpa passed away when I was just 3 years old), had two daughters, four grandchildren and four more step-grandchildren, and a whole mess of step-great-grandchildren. She was from Ohio but moved to New Hampshire when my mom was little.
Grandma (who we mostly called by her first name, Josie, or “Grandma Josie”) was a huge part of my childhood. My brother and I were raised by a single mom and spent most of our younger weekends at Grandma’s house in Merrimack where she just spoiled us silly.
She owned a big orange pickup with one of those campers on the back, and would take us to Jellystone Park in the summertime. She also regaled us with stories of when she and Grandpa were members of a motorcycle club. I realize that it was just a group of friend who all liked riding together, but I prefer to imagine her as a bit of an outlaw 😉
Later she moved to our rural little town to be closer to us. Here she is in her favorite spot, on the edge of the lake at happy hour…
A couple years ago she moved to Denver- her first time living in a city! She adapted well, and definitely enjoyed all the sunshine. It was great to be able to spend those last few years so close to her. This was just a few months ago, a combination Mother’s Day/Birthday celebration for her. I actually baked that cake!
It still seems unreal that she’s gone, even as I’m preparing to fly to NH tomorrow for her burial service. I miss her, but I know it was time, and she was ready to go. I also believe that she’s still with us in some way, maybe even watching over us. I love you, Grandma!
Follow
Comments on this entry are closed.
Hi Barb, I’m so sorry for your loss. Your grandma sounds like an amazing person. She will most definitely always be with you. “Those we love don’t go away. They walk beside us every day… unseen, unheard, but always near. Still loved, still missed, and very dear.” Sending lots of love and gentle hugs to you and your family. <3
What a nice tribute your grandmother. I miss my grandmothers too.
I’m so sorry to hear about the passing of your grandma. She sounds like a very special person. That’s amazing that she was open to change, even late in life, and moved to Denver, where you were able to spend quality time with her in her final years. Hugs to you.
Aw Barb!!! This is so sweet. She sounds like such a rad grandma (motorcycle club!!! happy hour!!). So sorry for your loss. Hugs!
I’m so sorry, Barb. This is a beautiful tribute to a wonderful, free-spirited, inspiring woman.