We said goodbye to my Great Aunt Helen this week. She was my Grandpa Inchiostro’s youngest sister. She passed away last Saturday at the age of 103. There is so much I would like to say about her, but my words cannot do her justice. Let me just say, her life was extraordinary. You wouldn’t even believe me if I told you some of her stories. She was a 4’10” giant.
Only Aunt Helen can call you “honey” and not offend you. In my memory, she called everyone honey but it still felt special when she was addressing you.
She loved, laughed and left an amazing legacy through her talented children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren. Everything about her was memorable, including her cooking. She herself made the cookies for her 100th birthday party.
At 103, she was ready to go. She told me the same day we took that first picture above she was ready to go. She said, “I have one foot in the grave and the other on a banana peel.” I know she’s happy to be reunited with Uncle Earl, her siblings and friends. But, I will miss knowing she is here.
We did celebrate her life on Wednesday. It was a wonderful tribute to her, even if I cried through most of the celebration.
You will never be forgotten. Soon we will have scaccia in your honor! I love you and will miss you so much. Thank you for your joy. Thank you for all you shared with me and with this world. It was a better place with you in it.