Gifts from Mary Ann

2

Comments

  • Alexandra
    Alexandra Member Posts: 1,308
    #22
    elpasorudy said:

    More Mary Ann

    A steady stream of visitors came to the home the day before Mary Ann died. It was a beautiful day. Friend Francesca, a certified yoga instructor, sang and chanted mantras, clearing the path for a tranquil transition. Judy Lee and Judy Beaumont, ordained Roman Catholic priests who serve the poor with their unsanctioned church in Fort Myers, prayed and administered the Healing of the Sick sacrament. Mary Ann was able to receive communion. Friends Sue, Irene, and Mario shared stories. Neighbor Beverly delivered a homemade pumpkin pie, and Mary Ann ate most of a slice, her first food in two days ... Mary Ann has a photo she wants me to post to the site. When I figure out the technology, I will do it, perhaps later today .... I had asked Mary Ann to give me a sign of her well being after she died. When I telephoned her brother John yesterday and started giving him the details of Mary Ann's passing, the phone disconnected and I was unable to reach John for five minutes. He called back and said a lightening bolt struck near his house when I told him his sister had died. It knocked the power out. Coincidence or was Mary Ann strutting her stuff? - Rudy

    Dear Rudy

    Please accept my condolences and deepest sympathy on the demise of your beautiful wife Mary Ann. It is comforting that in her final moments on earth she was home, surrounded by loving family and friends, music and prayer. There is no better way to transition. She will be watching over you forever and always.

  • debrajo
    debrajo Member Posts: 1,095 Member
    #23
    elpasorudy said:

    Mary Ann

    I read Mary Ann your posts yesterday. She smiled and briefly opened her eyes to acknowledge her understanding. Thank you for the kind words. Mary Ann is at peace now. She died at 5:35 p.m. yesterday in my arms, with Phoebe, the cat, sitting on the edge of the bed. The sounds of soft Native American flute music eased the transition to the next life. The house seems so still without her presence. She was a beautiful woman, inside and out, who showed incredible courage and spirit in fighting an aggressive cancer for nearly five years. Her spirit lives on in the lives of those she has touched over the years as a friend, therapist, advocate, teacher or mentor. Mary Ann is missed ... This discussion board and your feedback and support were a great comfort to Mary Ann. Cancer is a beast. I am a 6-year survivor of prostate cancer; Mary Ann's sister Rita died several years ago from pancreatic cancer. I would like to do something to get the word out about uterine papillary serous carcinoma. Need to think about it a bit more. God bless all of you.

    Another UPSC sister

    Dearest Rudy,  As with the other ladies, I am so sorry for your loss.  Mary Ann was a (gentel) force to be reconed with!  I truly believe we are given a mission by God on the day we are born.  Some of us complete this mission quickly and return to the arms of Jesus.  Some of us this mission takes many, many years.  Whatever Mary Anns' mission was,she completed it and she has been called home.  ....Rest well, thou good and fathful servant.  All my best, Debrajo

  • Ro10
    Ro10 Member Posts: 1,561 Member
    #24
    elpasorudy said:

    More Mary Ann

    A steady stream of visitors came to the home the day before Mary Ann died. It was a beautiful day. Friend Francesca, a certified yoga instructor, sang and chanted mantras, clearing the path for a tranquil transition. Judy Lee and Judy Beaumont, ordained Roman Catholic priests who serve the poor with their unsanctioned church in Fort Myers, prayed and administered the Healing of the Sick sacrament. Mary Ann was able to receive communion. Friends Sue, Irene, and Mario shared stories. Neighbor Beverly delivered a homemade pumpkin pie, and Mary Ann ate most of a slice, her first food in two days ... Mary Ann has a photo she wants me to post to the site. When I figure out the technology, I will do it, perhaps later today .... I had asked Mary Ann to give me a sign of her well being after she died. When I telephoned her brother John yesterday and started giving him the details of Mary Ann's passing, the phone disconnected and I was unable to reach John for five minutes. He called back and said a lightening bolt struck near his house when I told him his sister had died. It knocked the power out. Coincidence or was Mary Ann strutting her stuff? - Rudy

    Rudy

    My deepest sympathy for you and your family.  I was so saddened to read your note of Mary Ann passing.  When you told me it might be days or weeks, I was so hoping you had weeks with Mary Ann.  However I am so happy Mary Ann went peacefully surrounded by those who loved her.  Our cyber hugs were with both of you.  She will truly be missed.  Hang on to those treasured memories the two of you made.

    thank you so much for sharing the last moments with Mary Ann.  She was such a special lady and valued friend.  In peace and caring.

    i will pray for continued strength for you as you continue on with your life.

  • Tresia23
    Tresia23 Member Posts: 77
    #25
    jazzy1 said:

    Ro Thank you so much!!

    This saddens me deeply as I have always held a very special spot close to my heart for my friend Mary Ann.  She has ALWAYS been strong and never complained, but there for comfort to everyone.

    All of us on these boards most likely never personally met, but sure have become almost sister-like as we bear our soles.  I feel like I'm loosing a sister and darn it, it truly does hurt deep down inside.  

    Ro, I do hope Rudy keeps us posted on her progress and as well, lets Mary Ann know we're all here for her....with comforting arms around her.

    Love to all,

    Jan

     

    Mary Ann a special lady

    Jan I really like what you wrote about comforting arms around Mary Ann. I could not respond when I first read about her bad news. I could not bear to think about it.  Now when I read what both you and Ro have written I can only say how very much I agree with all of your beautiful words.

    I have not posted for a long time but exchanged posts with Mary Ann back during a difficult time for me. She was very supportive but as you say strong, always interested and caring for others, and never complaining for herself.

    Love to Mary Ann and Rudy and to all of you,

    Georgia

     

  • HellieC
    HellieC Member Posts: 524 Member
    #26
    elpasorudy said:

    More Mary Ann

    A steady stream of visitors came to the home the day before Mary Ann died. It was a beautiful day. Friend Francesca, a certified yoga instructor, sang and chanted mantras, clearing the path for a tranquil transition. Judy Lee and Judy Beaumont, ordained Roman Catholic priests who serve the poor with their unsanctioned church in Fort Myers, prayed and administered the Healing of the Sick sacrament. Mary Ann was able to receive communion. Friends Sue, Irene, and Mario shared stories. Neighbor Beverly delivered a homemade pumpkin pie, and Mary Ann ate most of a slice, her first food in two days ... Mary Ann has a photo she wants me to post to the site. When I figure out the technology, I will do it, perhaps later today .... I had asked Mary Ann to give me a sign of her well being after she died. When I telephoned her brother John yesterday and started giving him the details of Mary Ann's passing, the phone disconnected and I was unable to reach John for five minutes. He called back and said a lightening bolt struck near his house when I told him his sister had died. It knocked the power out. Coincidence or was Mary Ann strutting her stuff? - Rudy

    Desperately sad

    I am so sorry to hear of Mary Ann's passing, Rudy.  There are no words I can offer to make this time easier for you, but please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.  I am sure that the lightening was, indeed, a sign that Mary Ann is settling into another place.

    God bless you and your family
    Helen

  • Sisters three
    Sisters three Member Posts: 165 Member
    #27
    janh_in_ontario said:

    RUDY

    To take the time to come here and share your grief with us means more than you will ever know. I do not say this as a matter of habit or expectations - but your wife was so very helpful to so many here that you can rest assured you are being lifted in prayer and support. Thank you for sharing with us at such a difficult time.

    Rudy you cared for her heart then soul......

    A man....who loved a woman. You cared for all her needs. She waits. You did well.....

  • Kaleena
    Kaleena Member Posts: 2,088 Member
    #28
    elpasorudy said:

    Mary Ann

    I read Mary Ann your posts yesterday. She smiled and briefly opened her eyes to acknowledge her understanding. Thank you for the kind words. Mary Ann is at peace now. She died at 5:35 p.m. yesterday in my arms, with Phoebe, the cat, sitting on the edge of the bed. The sounds of soft Native American flute music eased the transition to the next life. The house seems so still without her presence. She was a beautiful woman, inside and out, who showed incredible courage and spirit in fighting an aggressive cancer for nearly five years. Her spirit lives on in the lives of those she has touched over the years as a friend, therapist, advocate, teacher or mentor. Mary Ann is missed ... This discussion board and your feedback and support were a great comfort to Mary Ann. Cancer is a beast. I am a 6-year survivor of prostate cancer; Mary Ann's sister Rita died several years ago from pancreatic cancer. I would like to do something to get the word out about uterine papillary serous carcinoma. Need to think about it a bit more. God bless all of you.

    Rudy

    Dear Rudy:

    Thank you for sharing Mary Ann with us at your time of tremendous sorrow.   I was sadden to read about Mary Ann when I logged in today after not being on the site for several days. Please know that I pray for her, you, and your entire family.   Although I did not post much these last few years, I will miss seeing her posts, but as you indicated her positive spirit will always be here.  It is comforting to know how loved she was and how much strength, courage and comfort that you gave to her.

    ((Hugs)))

    Kathy

     

     

  • Double Whammy
    Double Whammy Member Posts: 2,832 Member
    #29
    Sisters three said:

    Rudy you cared for her heart then soul......

    A man....who loved a woman. You cared for all her needs. She waits. You did well.....

    A huge loss for all of us

    I'm so sad to learn of MaryAnn's passing.  She was truly a kindred spirit to all of us and will remain one.  Rest in peace, dear MaryAnn.

    Suzanne

  • foods55
    foods55 Member Posts: 35 Member
    #30
    Mary Ann was so special

    Rudy,

    Mary Ann was so special to all of us on CSN.  She was so kind and I appreciated her insight on how to deal with cancer. 

    My deepest thoughts are with you and your family.  As you live life going forward, you have many wonderful memories to reflect back on and also CSN family is here to support you too.

    God watch and bless you and your love ones.

    Sue

  • RoseyR
    RoseyR Member Posts: 471 Member
    #31
    foods55 said:

    Mary Ann was so special

    Rudy,

    Mary Ann was so special to all of us on CSN.  She was so kind and I appreciated her insight on how to deal with cancer. 

    My deepest thoughts are with you and your family.  As you live life going forward, you have many wonderful memories to reflect back on and also CSN family is here to support you too.

    God watch and bless you and your love ones.

    Sue

    RUDY, DEEPEST SYMPATHY!

     

    Dear Rudy,

    Although I haven't visited these boards very often in the past six months, I was for a year and a half a "regular" who often read, and responded to, Mary Ann's lovely messages.  She was a beacon of support for all of us and a warm, courageous lady, always glad to share what she knew to help and comfort all of us in this shared struggle.

    Allthough I am sure she leaves a special legacy for her family, all the loving responses here are a real tribute fro her community of sisters, who really adored her.  I only hope we provided as much support to HER as she has to US in the past few years.

    Love,

    RoseyR 

  • susangr
    susangr Member Posts: 64
    #32
    elpasorudy said:

    Mary Ann

    I read Mary Ann your posts yesterday. She smiled and briefly opened her eyes to acknowledge her understanding. Thank you for the kind words. Mary Ann is at peace now. She died at 5:35 p.m. yesterday in my arms, with Phoebe, the cat, sitting on the edge of the bed. The sounds of soft Native American flute music eased the transition to the next life. The house seems so still without her presence. She was a beautiful woman, inside and out, who showed incredible courage and spirit in fighting an aggressive cancer for nearly five years. Her spirit lives on in the lives of those she has touched over the years as a friend, therapist, advocate, teacher or mentor. Mary Ann is missed ... This discussion board and your feedback and support were a great comfort to Mary Ann. Cancer is a beast. I am a 6-year survivor of prostate cancer; Mary Ann's sister Rita died several years ago from pancreatic cancer. I would like to do something to get the word out about uterine papillary serous carcinoma. Need to think about it a bit more. God bless all of you.

    Another Teal sister

    Taken to soon by this relentless disease.  We will all miss her greatly although her contributions to this board will remain a continuing legacy.  I extend my deepest sympathy to you Rudy and your families. May you gain comfort in the days ahead from the memories you have and the experiences you've shared.  Thank you for taking the time to write and let us know about her passing.  Thereis some comfort in knowing that she is no longer suffering.   

     

    Sincerely.  Susan

  • FourBee
    FourBee Member Posts: 52 Member
    #33
    elpasorudy said:

    More Mary Ann

    A steady stream of visitors came to the home the day before Mary Ann died. It was a beautiful day. Friend Francesca, a certified yoga instructor, sang and chanted mantras, clearing the path for a tranquil transition. Judy Lee and Judy Beaumont, ordained Roman Catholic priests who serve the poor with their unsanctioned church in Fort Myers, prayed and administered the Healing of the Sick sacrament. Mary Ann was able to receive communion. Friends Sue, Irene, and Mario shared stories. Neighbor Beverly delivered a homemade pumpkin pie, and Mary Ann ate most of a slice, her first food in two days ... Mary Ann has a photo she wants me to post to the site. When I figure out the technology, I will do it, perhaps later today .... I had asked Mary Ann to give me a sign of her well being after she died. When I telephoned her brother John yesterday and started giving him the details of Mary Ann's passing, the phone disconnected and I was unable to reach John for five minutes. He called back and said a lightening bolt struck near his house when I told him his sister had died. It knocked the power out. Coincidence or was Mary Ann strutting her stuff? - Rudy

    Rudy, Mary Ann Did Strut Her Stuff

    Dearest Rudy,

    You asked for a sign and I do not believe it was anything but Mary Ann's clear bolt out of the blue that told you and her brother that she heard your desire and fulfilled it. It was hard for her to leave you especially with your mom so ill.

    She wanted us to see her face and remember her sweetness so I do hope you post that photo but already she claimed a piece of my heart and is etched in it face or no face. I have thought about her daily and knew she passed. It was so sweet of you to have been with her and what a miracle that she had some pie! We should all go so gently into the night.

    Much love to you as you traverse new terrains without your beloved. She continues to dwell in so many of us. Bee

  • Sara Zipora
    Sara Zipora Member Posts: 231
    #34
    Rudy and Mary Ann May She Rest in Peace

    Nothing to add as tears stream down my face as memories of the strength she gave us suffuse. I know and pray that her spirit of love will give you solace.

    Sar in

  • soromer
    soromer Member Posts: 130
    #35
    My deepest condolences, Rudy

    I am so very sorry that Mary Ann has died. 

    You have shown us great courtesy by coming to tell us the news. I appreciate your kindness in the midst of your grief.

    And yet, I also hope that you can experience some gratitude and peace, even now, for helping your beloved wife make such a calm transition.  Everyone dies; you know probably better than most (given your profession) that not every death is a good one. The scene you describe of her last days is very touching. Clearly she was much loved and will be sorely missed by many.

    I look forward to seeing a more recognizable photo of your darling Mary Ann.

    May the memories of the life and love you shared bring you comfort, now and always.

    Peace,

    soromer/Kate

  • TAyers
    TAyers Member Posts: 86 Member
    #36
    soromer said:

    My deepest condolences, Rudy

    I am so very sorry that Mary Ann has died. 

    You have shown us great courtesy by coming to tell us the news. I appreciate your kindness in the midst of your grief.

    And yet, I also hope that you can experience some gratitude and peace, even now, for helping your beloved wife make such a calm transition.  Everyone dies; you know probably better than most (given your profession) that not every death is a good one. The scene you describe of her last days is very touching. Clearly she was much loved and will be sorely missed by many.

    I look forward to seeing a more recognizable photo of your darling Mary Ann.

    May the memories of the life and love you shared bring you comfort, now and always.

    Peace,

    soromer/Kate

    Rudy

    When I read about MaryAnn, I was deeply saddened for you and tears welled up in my eyes as I read your post to my own husband. Your wife was a very brave woman to share her journey with us, thank you for sharing her with us. It helps us face our own mortality someday. None of us know the number of our days that we have, but God knows. The picture you painted for us was one with dignity, love, and no suffering. May you now allow the Lord to wrap his arms around you as you did for MaryAnn, during your time of grieving. Love in Christ, Tami (a UPSC sister) 

  • txtrisha55
    txtrisha55 Member Posts: 693 Member
    #37
    elpasorudy said:

    More Mary Ann

    A steady stream of visitors came to the home the day before Mary Ann died. It was a beautiful day. Friend Francesca, a certified yoga instructor, sang and chanted mantras, clearing the path for a tranquil transition. Judy Lee and Judy Beaumont, ordained Roman Catholic priests who serve the poor with their unsanctioned church in Fort Myers, prayed and administered the Healing of the Sick sacrament. Mary Ann was able to receive communion. Friends Sue, Irene, and Mario shared stories. Neighbor Beverly delivered a homemade pumpkin pie, and Mary Ann ate most of a slice, her first food in two days ... Mary Ann has a photo she wants me to post to the site. When I figure out the technology, I will do it, perhaps later today .... I had asked Mary Ann to give me a sign of her well being after she died. When I telephoned her brother John yesterday and started giving him the details of Mary Ann's passing, the phone disconnected and I was unable to reach John for five minutes. He called back and said a lightening bolt struck near his house when I told him his sister had died. It knocked the power out. Coincidence or was Mary Ann strutting her stuff? - Rudy

    Dear Rudy

    I too am so sorry to hear of Mary Ann's passing but her legacy on these boards will live on.  May God give you all the strength to help you through this difficult time. She was such a special lady always there for all the newbees coming to this board.  Words of encouragement, support and love is what she leaves behind.  trish

  • daisy366
    daisy366 Member Posts: 1,458 Member
    #38
    Picture Perfect. Mary Ann wanted you to see this photo

    The picture was taken April 20th in Fort Myers at The American Rhapsody concert presented by the Symphonic Chorale of Southwest Florida. It was Mary Ann's last singing appearance, about three weeks before she lost her hair to radiation treatments. Mary Ann was an alto with the group. Her funeral Mass is scheduled for noon Saturday, June 15, at St. Andrew's Church in Cape Coral. Her obituary and a video tribute should be posted on www.mullinsmemorial.com in two or three days. - Rudy

  • sunflash
    sunflash Member Posts: 197 Member
    #39
    daisy366 said:

    Picture Perfect. Mary Ann wanted you to see this photo

    The picture was taken April 20th in Fort Myers at The American Rhapsody concert presented by the Symphonic Chorale of Southwest Florida. It was Mary Ann's last singing appearance, about three weeks before she lost her hair to radiation treatments. Mary Ann was an alto with the group. Her funeral Mass is scheduled for noon Saturday, June 15, at St. Andrew's Church in Cape Coral. Her obituary and a video tribute should be posted on www.mullinsmemorial.com in two or three days. - Rudy

    Dear Rudy,
    Please accept my

    Dear Rudy,

    Please accept my condolences on the passing of your lovely wife, our dear Mary Ann. What a beautiful face with such a sweet smile, to match the everlasting impression she has made on our hearts. We will forever remember her wise words of comfort and direction as we traveled this road we've been given.........but never alone, due to God's grace and spirit exemplified in special angels........such as Mary Ann. 

    Please take care, Rudy, and thank you for sharing Mary Ann with us. 

  • ConnieSW
    ConnieSW Member Posts: 1,688 Member
    #40
    sunflash said:

    Dear Rudy,
    Please accept my

    Dear Rudy,

    Please accept my condolences on the passing of your lovely wife, our dear Mary Ann. What a beautiful face with such a sweet smile, to match the everlasting impression she has made on our hearts. We will forever remember her wise words of comfort and direction as we traveled this road we've been given.........but never alone, due to God's grace and spirit exemplified in special angels........such as Mary Ann. 

    Please take care, Rudy, and thank you for sharing Mary Ann with us. 

    Picture

    It's a wonderful picture, Rudy.  I'm so glad to have a face to go with Mary Ann's words.  Thankyou.  Take care.

  • Ro10
    Ro10 Member Posts: 1,561 Member
    #41
    daisy366 said:

    Picture Perfect. Mary Ann wanted you to see this photo

    The picture was taken April 20th in Fort Myers at The American Rhapsody concert presented by the Symphonic Chorale of Southwest Florida. It was Mary Ann's last singing appearance, about three weeks before she lost her hair to radiation treatments. Mary Ann was an alto with the group. Her funeral Mass is scheduled for noon Saturday, June 15, at St. Andrew's Church in Cape Coral. Her obituary and a video tribute should be posted on www.mullinsmemorial.com in two or three days. - Rudy

    Mary Ann looks wonderful

    Rudy, thanks for sharing.  I will always remember Mary Ann's beautiful smile.  Take care Rudy.

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