Before Grandma’s funeral, the family was asked if they had anything to share about Grandma’s life. I came up with a short speech that I hoped would tell what I loved most about her. Here’s what I said:
Grandma kept a tag on her keychain that said “when Irish eyes are smiling, they’re up to something.” If that’s true, then Grandma was always up to something because she always had a twinkle in her eye.
This picture of her in Ireland is so appropriate. There’s that familiar twinkle, all bundled up. I can only imagine the extroadinary effort it took for her to be there, but there she is, 93 years old and having the time of her life.
As a kid, I remember Grandma’s house being a whirlwind of activity. We kids would run ourselves ragged, along with a few of the grownups, too! There was never any shortage of food, laps to sit in, food, stories to hear, food, and hugs – as many hugs as you needed.
But while I enjoyed the chaos of the typical visit to Grandma, I was fortunate to spend some precious time alone with her. Back when I was stationed in Pensacola, I would hop the bus – or Carl Anderson would pick me up – and I would spend the weekend with Grandma. In return for some tasty meals and a comfortable bed, she would put me to work!
I didn’t mind a bit, though. It was a fair bargain! When I wasn’t raking pinestraw off her roof or fixing her telephones, we would sit and talk about everything! She always listened to me as if I were not just a grandson, or a kid, but simply myself. I valued that more than anything.
Now Grandma is free from her failing body. She can be proud of her wonderful family, a testament to her loving, nurturing ways. So today, let us celebrate her life.
Because somewhere, those Irish eyes are still smiling.