jianantonic | (no subject)

My mom just called to say that a very good family friend and bridge regular passed away yesterday. Mary Lee McCrickard was a regular in my mom's (and my) bridge group for as long as I've been a part of that group, and a very sweet old lady. She had a cat that wieghed 45 pounds, and she always had new cat pictures for me whenever she saw me. Her mind had been slipping in and out, mostly due to her medications, over the past few years. Yesterday, she finished first at the bridge game (usually she is near the back of the pack in scoring) and then apparently had a sudden heart attack and died immediately, peaceful and happy. Chris, the woman who has lived with her for 50 years helping her on the farm and taking care of her in her old age, said that she was happy and feeling good that day, and there was no better way for her to go. It comes as hard news for me, but at the same time I am glad of the circumstances. Mary Lee lived in a very large house and had good days and bad. Her husband passed a few years ago, as did her very large cat. She could have passed uncomfortably and alone, but she was happy and among friends. It will be strange going to bridge games and not seeing her. Others from the group have gone before her - closest to me were Sam Hodges and Sam Mims - but none were such regulars as she. Her absence will be obvious and sad...but she was in her eighties (86?), sick, and had lived a great life, so there is really nothing to mourn. As Jeremy says, it sounds like she was just done. And I'm glad she went on her own terms.

I'll be in Charlottesville today, catching up with some friends. Give me a call if you're there.

Peace.