Today I received a call informing me of the death of one my dearest friends, Marion Passey. We have known each other for more than 25 years and the loss cuts very deep.
We first met when I became Marion's visiting teacher all those years ago and the connection between us seemed to form very quickly. I loved visiting with her because she had such a zest for life and such a strong testimony of the gospel.
I particularly remember one visit where she shared one of the cross stitch projects she had been working on that day. I was envious because I had several small children and could not imagine how it would be to enjoy the freedom to stitch whenever I wanted. She just smiled at me and told me "There is joy in every stage of our lives. Don't wish any time away because it will be gone soon enough." She assured me, however, that every stage of life, regardless of its difficulties or trials, always had the capacity for great joy. She spoke with such conviction about the blessings to be received from heaven as we traveled through this life.
Over the years Marion has shared with me many wonderful children's stories that she has written. She had an incredible talent for rhyme. Although some were fun stories, many had gospel themes geared just for young minds. I had no doubt as I listened to them that she was truly inspired. When a few were finally published, I was probably one of the first in line to buy them! She has called me regularly to read one of her new stories and she always wanted to know my opinion. Sometimes the stories were so delightful that I would find myself laughing, and other times the Spirit would whisper to me and the tears would come. How I will miss hearing her read one of her new stories!
Marion taught me to cross stitch, something that has filled my life with a great deal of enjoyment. In fact, she was the first one to cross stitch the "prophets" and we used to compare notes as we worked on them.
Just a little before Christmas, Marion called me. A serious infection had invaded her body and there was nothing that could be done to stop its progression. She had only been given a little time. We talked and she told me to not be sad, that she had enjoyed a fabulous life and was not at all sad to be taking the next step. I will miss her terribly. She has had a profound influence on my life! I have no doubt, however, that she was welcomed with open arms and I look forward to seeing her again one day. Maybe there will be some wonderful, new heavenly stories! I love you, Marion!
We first met when I became Marion's visiting teacher all those years ago and the connection between us seemed to form very quickly. I loved visiting with her because she had such a zest for life and such a strong testimony of the gospel.
I particularly remember one visit where she shared one of the cross stitch projects she had been working on that day. I was envious because I had several small children and could not imagine how it would be to enjoy the freedom to stitch whenever I wanted. She just smiled at me and told me "There is joy in every stage of our lives. Don't wish any time away because it will be gone soon enough." She assured me, however, that every stage of life, regardless of its difficulties or trials, always had the capacity for great joy. She spoke with such conviction about the blessings to be received from heaven as we traveled through this life.
Over the years Marion has shared with me many wonderful children's stories that she has written. She had an incredible talent for rhyme. Although some were fun stories, many had gospel themes geared just for young minds. I had no doubt as I listened to them that she was truly inspired. When a few were finally published, I was probably one of the first in line to buy them! She has called me regularly to read one of her new stories and she always wanted to know my opinion. Sometimes the stories were so delightful that I would find myself laughing, and other times the Spirit would whisper to me and the tears would come. How I will miss hearing her read one of her new stories!
Marion taught me to cross stitch, something that has filled my life with a great deal of enjoyment. In fact, she was the first one to cross stitch the "prophets" and we used to compare notes as we worked on them.
Just a little before Christmas, Marion called me. A serious infection had invaded her body and there was nothing that could be done to stop its progression. She had only been given a little time. We talked and she told me to not be sad, that she had enjoyed a fabulous life and was not at all sad to be taking the next step. I will miss her terribly. She has had a profound influence on my life! I have no doubt, however, that she was welcomed with open arms and I look forward to seeing her again one day. Maybe there will be some wonderful, new heavenly stories! I love you, Marion!
"While we are mourning the loss of our friend, others are
rejoicing to meet him behind the veil."
*President John Taylor
rejoicing to meet him behind the veil."
*President John Taylor
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7 comments:
It is wonderful that in your sadness you have so many good memories.
I am my mother's daughter...I'm a boob. This was really nice, Mom. :)
Well, now that I am crying my eyes out, you have touched my new year and helped me to realize how much there is out there still to be done. I'm glad you are my sister!!!!!!!!!
Love,
Linda
It is truly the passing of a wonderful lady. She really was a talented writer! I will miss her through you. I enjoyed so much the latest that you would hear and tell me about her. Loved ones were surely there to meet her! I would like to have met her myself. I am so glad to have you--my favorite blog writer!!! love Mom B.
I just heard of her passing today when you guys stopped by while I was out. I am so sorry for your loss mom. I know she was your good friend and enjoyed visiting with her often. She was such a wonderful lady. I truly enjoyed reading your memories of her. She will be remembered at our home always as we read her books.
Oh, Mom I never had the pleasure of meeting her, but I will meet her some day I know. We love her stories and I glad you were able to enjoy such a good friendship with her other those many years. She's a wonderful woman.
What a wonderful friend. How happy she must be right now!
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