We arrived in Wilmington on Friday. Our reunion this year was bitter sweet. "Aunt Sue" passed away on November 16, 2010. This year is a celebration of Sue's life. She was our Aunt, Mother and Grandmother, Don's beloved wife.
We arrived at the small and peaceful cemetery on a very hot Friday afternoon.
Andy began the service with a reading. (Andy - will you add the reading here?)
John spoke next and shared his favorite memories of his mother. Expert 'fisher woman', a cigarette in one hand, a beer in the other. An elegant, poised mother who could always catch the biggest fish. (John - add your thoughts here)
The Sutherland sisters spoke next and shared their early memories of Sue and how her sense of style, design, and emphasis on manners shaped their lives and helped add a sense of stability to their childhood.
Sara remembers their many camping trips and the wrought iron candelabra that was added to their picnic tables.
Don spoke very movingly of how he met Sue. He knew Sue was his love forever. Through Sue's long illness, Don always saw the beautiful young woman that he married when she was only 19.
Rich played "Where Have All The Flowers Gone", one of Don and Sue's favorite songs and we sang together. (Second song name?) Then Don put Sue's ashes next to Wink's and we said goodbye.
We can always visit this peaceful spot. How lucky we all are to be together.
