Oh mom, it's been 8 years and I'm still heartbroken that you are not here with us. The days blend and things happen in my everyday life that I wish I could ask you about. In those times all I can do is remember you and imagine the advice you'd give me. Just know that I'm living my life today through your teachings of love and kindness and your strength leads me on. I love you, today and always. You will never be forgotten. Until we meet again mom.

Aunt Pat,
Your memories are always with us. This world was a better place with you.
James Howell

Auntie Pat not a day goes by that you don't cross my mind. I walk downstairs and see all my card stuff and just smile as it reminds me of spending time with you , Joy, and Lilly making cards such happy thoughts. I love you and miss our talks!

“Light A Candle”
And I will light a candle for you
To shatter all the darkness and bless the times we knew
Like a beacon in the night
The flame will burn bright and guide us on our way
Oh, today I light a candle for you
The seasons come and go, and I’m weary from the change
I keep moving on, you know it’s not the same
And when I’m walking all alone
Do you hear me call your name?
Do you hear me sing the songs we used to sing?
You filled my life with wonder, touched me with surprise
Always saw that something special deep within your eyes
And through the good times and the bad
We carried on with pride
I hold on to the love and life we knew

It has officially been one full year since we lost mom. It still hurts. It's different and still a bit lonely. We are all moving forward, simply because time gives us no other choice. Mom, you will never be forgotten and a year later we are still thinking of you. I will cherish you forever. xoxoxo <3

Our family has found comfort in this memorial ceremony. Please join us today in lighting these 5 candles to remember our mother. Take 5 candles and read the following out loud while lighting each candle as indicated. Remember Mom so she will never be forgotten. Thank you.

Candle Lighting Memorial Ceremony

As we light these five candles in memory of and in honor of you, we light one for our grief, one for our courage, one for our memories, one for our love, and one for our hope.
This candle represents our grief. The pain of losing you is intense. It reminds us of the depth of our love for you.
This candle represents our courage – to confront our sorrow, to comfort each other, and to change our lives.
This candle is in your memory – the times we laughed, the times we cried, the times we were angry with each other, the silly things you did, and the caring and joy you gave to us.
This candle is the light of love. As we enter this holiday season, day by day we cherish the special place in our hearts that will always be reserved for you. We thank you for the gift your living brought to each of us.
And this candle is the light of hope. It reminds us of the love and the memories of you that are ours forever. May the glow of the flame be our source of hopefulness now and forever. We love you.

Aunt Pat,
Thank you for all of the great memories. This world was a better place with you. You will always be with us.
James Howell

Some of my most last memories are of the stuffed animals that my Auntie Pat had made for me! Which by the way I still have to this day. Miss Hippo my three foot pink hippo, the three foot brown teddy bear with the yellow tie and of course raggedy ann that was also thee feet tall! I treasure them all to this day! I miss you Auntie Pat you love lives on in the toys you made for new as a child!

Forever in our hearts, you will be cherished always Mom.