Today marks ten years. Ten years of living without you. My heart cries in silence. I began this note this morning and now it’s after midnight. Joanna is coming over on her day off Wednesday and we’re going to DD and we’ll leave a mess of muffin crumbs on the DD floor. Then we’re going to Target to knock some end of aisle displays over with the motor cart. Wish you were going with us. But we know the atmosphere in Heaven is more beautiful than the world down here! I hope you are enjoying the Promised Land and your gift of eternal life. Tell me all about it when we are together again after The Father comes for me❤️

Hi Mom. Well, it's been 10 years to the day since you strapped on those beautiful wings. Just as you promised, I still feel you guiding.me through the tough times and celebrating with me through the triumphs. I also, feel you on my shoulder during the funniest times, but you're still laughing before the punchline. It just makes me laugh even harder.

Can you believe Dad is still doing great on his own for 10 years without you making his meals and cleaning his clothes??? I hate to tell you, but the house is a mess. I guess you knew that would happen though, haha. He laughs when we talk about it, and when we all joke about the great times we spent together. He still wears his wedding ring. He actually cried about that last night when we were remembering you (Jeff, Dad, & me). Then we all laughed again at some silly memories. It was another great time, the three of us remembering you.

This morning, as I lay in bed, I was remembering the porcelain bird. Its an overwhelming bookmark in my mind of the power of giving. You were SO happy when I gave it to you. It was the first time I used my own money to buy you something without you knowing. I don't think you know this, but I rode my bike a bit beyond the neighborhood boundaries you set for me in order to find that little garage sale. I laid my tiny bike down and there it was. I knew that bird should be yours Mom but at the time, I didn't know that the bird would help shape my life.

The nice ol' lady told me how expensive it was but it didn't care, I rode all the way home to get 25 cents from my room and rode fast as I could back so noone else would buy it. You unwrapped the newspaper it was rolled up in with such surprise. You were so truly happy. You made me so truly happy with your reaction. That hug, that day, that feeling... it was that moment, Mom. I've wanted to have that same feeling every second I breath. I hope you are proud of me as I continue to give everything I own, and everything I am to the people I love and to people I don't even know. As long as you shine the light, I'll know where to go (where to give) and, just like I promised you, I'll keep going until you hand me my wings.

Welp, just wanted say hi and also say THANKS MOM. You know....

Dear Joanne, my sister and dearest friend. To the heart I once heard beat within my chest. Your loss has not gotten easier even though this March will be ten years since you have gone. At least, I am closer to being reunited with you. For your birthday, I hope you had lobster with Aunt Katherine and Uncle Gene; I hope you had a beautiful birthday cake with the Heavenly Father at the Banquet Table; I hope all your friends in heaven, sang a boisterous Happy Birthday to you; I hope you looked down to see the beautiful wedding of my Princess Joanna and Jeff; I hope you see the great changes in your son, Jeffrey, and the tenacious way in which he now handles life; I hope you see how carefully Jack and Shelby have taken care of your husband, John, and Shelby's mom, Mildred. I hope also that you whisper encouragement to my dear Jeanna, who complements my world. And, I hope you see how much I love you and miss you and wish we'd soon be reunited. But that is in the hands of my Heavenly Father and it will be his will that decides when. Please pray for all of us as struggle is part of the human dynamic and loss is part of life. I love you, I miss you, and I look forward to the day when my work on earth is finished, and I am taken to you where we will live together for eternity in the Kingdom of God. Lovingly, Judy

My dear sister, Joanne ... I wish I could see you in my room, hold you in my arms, and kiss you on both cheeks. I would hold you so tight, we'd never separate again. Today, I watched the video Jack made for your funeral service. I can't talk, no words come out, no one hears my silence, except you as it was for both of us.

Happy Birthday, dear Joanne … I want to say so much; yet, I am having trouble in my attempt to begin. My heart sings happy birthday to you and happy new year. My memories of our shared childhood are stinging, yet I am grateful for having shared them together with the kind of courage only a twin sister understands. Today, I will be with my girls and that always helps to fill the void of not having you by my side to celebrate our birthdays as we did for 67 years. It’s so hard being a half a twin and I’m still struggling with the challenge. But the new year will come soon enough and I will have new hopes and a renewed spirit. You will be first in my heart and soul as the new year brings new hope for a better life. I love you and miss you and will be with you in time. Happy Birthday.

Happy Birthday in Heaven to my beautiful Mother in Law.
Every day that passes we miss you and think about your beautiful heart. Your smile lights up the sky and we know you are watching over us each day. 

Always in our hearts.

Sending Love,

Shelby Tessar

Happy Birthday, my Sister,
   Today we share a memorable birthday. It's hard to believe we're 75 years old. Although I am struggling with pain right now and my face looks weary and tired, I don't believe I look 75. (Maybe 95, but certainly not 75!)
   My plans for today were to have my girls come to my house, then we'd go off to the mall because that is always a treat for me. We'd shop, have lunch, and then shop some more. But, Jeanna is sick again, just as on Christmas. Joanna is coming over to hang out and chill while we watch something on TV that should give us a few laughs.
   I hope your plans for today include going to Target and knocking over several aisles of once nicely arranged items, going to DD and leaving half your food on the floor, and opening up gifts, lots of them, which you always loved doing.
   Without you here with me, my life feels so unsafe, so void, so lonely. But my girls help to fill the void and loneliness. They miss you as well. This too shall pass and we'll move into a new year with new hopes, expectations, and the great desire of a peaceful world. I love you my sister and I continue to be only half a twin in your absence. Until we meet in the arms of Jesus, let us keep in mind the wonderful memories we shared over our lifetime together. Happy Birthday. I Love you, Judy

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!
We're all doing great here on the new ranch in Tennessee. Dad is building all types of bridges and decks to make the ranch look great. Jeff is watching over Dad or maybe Dad is watching over Jeff. Lol. We miss you in so many ways but somehow feel like you're here with us. You are a big reason why we moved to the peace of the country. Thank you for you're guiding light Mom. As you watch over us, I hope we make you laugh with all our mishaps and missteps. A Birthday laugh would always get the rest of us cracking up. I am smiling thinking about it. I love you Mom.

My dear Joanne,
The other day, I downloaded a song by Casting Crowns that I now sing to you each time that I play it. You alone can understand what it feels life to lose the closest being in your life and attempt to live (exist) without it. How I could use your presence now, when there is so much to deal with on this journey of living with cancer. I remember each part of your journey from the day we were told your tumor was malignant to the day you left us. I remember each step along the way and how we comforted each other with all the pain in between. Please let me feel your presence now as I struggle to move forward. I need your presence, your listening heart, your comfort, your love. The song I mentioned before brings solace to my soul. It is called "The only scars in Heaven are on the hands that hold you now" by Casting Crowns. I love you and know that the time is short before I see you. Then, I too, will be without scars. Judy

Dear Joanne,
Every time I go to this site and see your picture, I feel a shock to my heart like it's the first time I see your face. I hope you are happy in heaven and looking down on my girls and me. We planned to go to St. Thomas More today, but Joanna felt sick so the girls and I will visit next Tuesday. I got my second shot for Covid today, so I should be good to party! I also saw my cardiologist and I have Mitral Valve Prolapsed Syndrome. You know what that means, so I don't need to describe it. I know you'll pray for me for that. I will continue with chemo for at least another three to four months. I miss you so much, especially on this cancer journey. It's so lonely without you next to me. It has a physical effect and definitely an emotional one. I know you see what's been going on and that I am doing everything possible to help my girls. Joanna and Jeff are looking for a house and Jeanna, in time, will look for a condo/townhouse. Sometimes, I get down and wonder how long I will live. I'm not afraid of dying, I just want to know that Joanna and Jeanna will be ok. That is what I pray for, and I ask you to please keep your candle burning.
A side effect of having this kind of cancer is that it destroys the body and causes pain everywhere. I'm complaining, forgive me. I will get through it all and be strong again. I love you and miss you more than I can ever explain. I started this Tribute earlier today, but had hundreds of interruptions. But it's 11 PM, so here it comes, directly to my loving and savior sister whom I miss with all my heart and soul. I love you, 'bootsie.' Your 'bonesie,' and loving sister, Judy

My dear sister, Joanne,
Today is only a half special day because you are not physically here to celebrate it with me. I ponder you're sitting at the Father's Banquet Table surrounded by those who came before you while all are singing Happy Birthday. I see you smiling at the enormous birthday cake before you and taking in the air to blow out all the candles! You look so happy. I am happy for you. I know that you wish me a happy birthday, too. Today, I will be in and out of thoughts about you and pray that you are happy and at peace (a prayer that I say each day as I have set a timer on my phone to remind me to say on your behalf.) At midnight, as 2020 passes and 2021 ushers in, all will have great hope for a better, more loving, and peaceful year. Gather your heavenly friends and pray for your brothers and sisters on earth that God will be more inclusive in our lives and the world will be a better place. I love you so sincerely, my Bootsie, always have and always will. Your Bonesie, Judy

:)

Hi Mom... HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!
Thought about you so much today. Thought about your silly stories and it made me laugh. Thought about the funny faces you make when you're trying not to laugh in the middle of someone else's story and that made me laugh also. Glad you're still with me on these special days. Thanks :)
I love you Mom!

My dearest Joanne,
Happy 6th Birthday in your new home. I am glad that you are not part of what is going on down here on earth. Everything has changed since your passing. People have gotten controversial, mean, and unwilling to change their attitudes. We have had tornadoes, tsunamis, earthquakes, mass killings, and the disharmony of man. We have diseases that cannot be cured, a hunger that cannot be satisfied, homelessness that cannot be honored, and more of man's inhumanity to man. People don't forgive people, nor do they choose to understand each other when relationships end. I am sad, Joanne. As my girls grow and have their own lives, I am less interested in relationships. They are too difficult and people never take into consideration the weight of one's heart. At the rate this world is going and the things that continue to occur, I think I will be seeing you soon. We will walk together through the pearly gate holding hands and we will be together again, forever. I will write again. I love you so deeply and miss you as well. Judy

My dear Joanne (Bootsie) ... It is shortly after midnight on December 31, 2019. I wish you another Happy Birthday in Heaven and I hope the food is good and the birthday cake has both our names on it. I wonder what you do all day and if you are 100% happy. I pray that you are. It's been difficult learning to live alone as one person when our entire lives we were two people living as one person. I know you understand. Joanna and Jeanna, and I had a beautiful Thanksgiving with your Jackey and Shelby and all the kids. It was so awesome. I even saved you a chair at the table right next to me. For Christmas, we visited Jack and Shelby in the morning and exchanged gifts. All the kids were there and it was a wonderful time. Just as Thanksgiving, John was there and we chatted. Mostly though, we all were able to laugh and enjoy everyone's company. My girls and I got beautiful gifts and hoped that our gifts made Jack and Shelby and all your five grandchildren happy. Joanne, I miss you so terribly. I feel like I just had surgery and my throat and stomach were removed. There is such a void I have since you went home. But, the holidays brought a wonderful family time with your husband, son, daughter-in-law, five grandchildren, and Millie. Despite the wonderful times we've had, there always feels like I am missing a part of me. Wait for me, baby, you know I will meet you as soon as our Heavenly Father comes for me. Tonight the ball will drop in Times Square and all will count down to 2020! I'll have 30 years without drinking and 32 years without smoking. Please keep showing up in the brightest, blinking star in the heavens. I find comfort in knowing that you are there looking down on this earth as I look up to find you. Bless you, my sister, you continue to occupy the deepest and most loving part of my beating heart. Pray for me, and my Joanna and Jeanna. I say a decade of the Rosary every night that God has you seated at a most special seat at His Banquet Table. I so much love and miss you. Until the next time, I will miss you, continue to love you, and especially miss shopping with you during the holidays.  Love always and forever, your Bones-ie, Judy.

My dear Joanne,
I'm sure you had a great Mother's Day yesterday. Especially reading the tribute from your dear son, Jackey. He texted me good wishes and it was emotional. My girls and I went to the Mall yesterday, walked in and out of stores and got something to eat. The girls took pictures and whatever was said had the three of us hysterical with laughter. When I looked at the picture, I saw your face. I heard your laughter (along with the wheeze and snorts!) I know you would have laughed along with us. I miss you terribly and love you even more. I am trying to live without the security of you in my life. I know that in time we will be reunited and never, ever be separated again. Love you and miss you. Hugs and kisses, Judy

Hi Mom, Happy Mother's Day .... 
Went to Dunkin today. Had a blueberry muffin, told a bad joke and remembered your laugh. Thanks for "being with me" today.
I love you!

Hi, Joanne,
This morning, Jeanna and I attended the 8 AM Mass said especially for you on this the 5th year of your passing. Joanna's heart was with you, but she was at work. I need not tell you what it has been like over the past five years, you already know. I still look for your shining star every night. The nights that I see it, I am certain it is you. It is comforting to know you are looking over my girls and me. I'm getting closer to Heaven the older I get, and I look forward to reuniting with you, to feel whole again, and to leave the despair of this current world. Nothing is the same. But, each day, I set out to do good things that my Heavenly Father asks of me. I hope He is pleased with me. I hope you too are pleased and proud. I love you, Joanne, and I know the time will come when we will be reunited. Until then, I long to touch your face and kiss your cheek. My heart is with you. Love, Judy

We love you Aunt Joanne and miss you always, thanks for the memory of your love and care.

I know you can’t be physically here but I always feel your presence when I need it the most. Please keep lighting your candle for us. We love you aunt Joanne, always & forever.

Happy 4th year in Heaven, Joanne.  I haven't missed a night looking for you in the heavens. You told me, before you passed, that I would know which star was you. You were so right because of all the stars shining in the heavens, I always know which one is you. I have a Mass being said for you tomorrow at 8 AM. I will be there as I have been for all of the Masses I had said for you in the past. I will save you a seat right next to me so that we are together. I visit your picture behind the Tabernacle and I talk to you, I cry, and I tell you that in God's time I will join you. I feel so lonely, so empty, and so distraught without you. You know what is sadly happening in my life and how my heart aches that I see God's presence in all of this and His willingness to change what is so bad into something that becomes whole and healthy again. You know what I am talking about so please light your candle and pray for my babies. I love you, I miss you, and I live to join you in our Heavenly Father's house where our rooms will be adjoining. Hugs to my Bootsy, Joanne, from your Bonesy, Judy.

Happy Birthday, Joanne. I have a card on my dining room table for you. It's for you, baby, a special sister birthday card. I wrote a message in it telling you how much I miss you. I'm sure your heaven phone is ringing with happy birthday wishes. It has never felt good saying "My birthday," when it has always been "Our birthdays." Nothing seems the same without you. I still think of calling you when I am happy or sad or just need to clear my mind. It feels so lonely without you. It seems like I live in a world of continual disappointment, not because of others, but because I find it is so hard to be happy. It's ok though, because I look forward to the day when God believes my work on earth is finished and He takes me home so that we are together again. I know that in the Lord's house there are many rooms, and that He will make certain that we have adjourning ones. Till then, I will glorify my Heavenly Father in your name and in your honor. I love you 'bootsie' and will forever be your 'bonesie.' Judy

Today, on the third anniversary of your death, I lay a flower at your memorial in my back yard. I went to bed early last night hoping to avoid the exact time of your passing. Unable to, I was awake for much of the night. My heart remains very heavy. The sense of something missing and the feeling of emptiness in the largest part of my heart is not without pain. Much like the feeling of dropping straight down while on a roller coaster. It is truly that feeling. Not one day goes by that I don't think about you, how difficult life was for you and how, now, heaven must be a true Paradise for you.  I wanted you to know that you are Forever Missed and that my heart barely goes on without you. Hugs and kisses to you my bootsy, and the same for my Diana, whom I miss so deeply, and, my Aunt Mary Ellen whom I held when the Lord came for her. When my time is up, I will reunite with all of you. Love you baby, love you. Judy

Dear Joanne ... Happy Birthday and Happy New Year. I miss you so much and love you even more. I hope they celebrate birthdays in heaven. I am ok and spent Christmas and our birthday with Joanna and Jeanna. We saw Jack, Jeff, and John on Christmas morning. John misses you so much and didn't put a tree up this year either. Jack showed me the picture of your last Anniversary and I cried so hard. Don't forget me, baby as I am waiting for God to call me home so we can be together again. Please pray for my girls and me. Sometimes, my pain is so intense. I love you bootsy, so much. Love, Bonesy

My dear sister, Joanne. I read the note Joanna sent to you. I love Lady Gaga's new song, "Joanne", also. The words seem to apply to you and, someday, they will apply to me. There is little healing from your absence and its awful, gnawing, and empty existence left behind. So, so many daily reminders like those when I speak, I see, I feel that keep pointing back to you. I must live with that until our Heavenly Father comes for me. My girls are my main focus now and I must remember that they need me in many ways and I must be here to continue loving them. They are my angels on earth and you, Joanne, are my angel in heaven. I will be with you in the future and that is what keeps me going. Meanwhile, I am doing God's work here on earth so that He remembers the goodness of my heart when He comes for me. I love you forever, and ever. Judy

When I first listened to Lady Gaga's new song "Joanne" I couldn't help but to cry. You loved listening to Lady Gaga, but it's this song that gives me goosebumps, I didn't know it at the time but I found out she wrote it about her aunt who passed away. I know that if you were here you would be buying her new album and making a copy for me, mommy, & Jeanna. I really really miss your laugh, smile, & how you would call me sweetheart. You really meant so much to me aunt Joanne, I hope you always knew that & that I still go back to the night you slept over. It's a memory I'll cherish forever. My heart still aches but I know you're in heaven watching over us. Please pray & light a candle for me, Mommy, & Jeanna. We could always use an extra prayer. Thank you for listening. I love you so much aunt Joanne.

"Joanne"

Take my hand, stay Joanne
Heaven's not
Ready for you
Every part
Of my aching heart
Needs you more
Than the angels do

Girl
Where do you think you're goin'?
Where do you think you're goin'
Goin', girl?
Girl
Where do you think you're goin'?
Where do you think you're goin'
Goin', girl?

If you could
I know that you'd stay
We both know
Things don't work that way
I promised I
Wouldn't say goodbye
So I grin
And my voice gets thin

Girl
Where do you think you're goin'?
Where do you think you're goin'
Goin', girl?
Girl
Where do you think you're goin'?
Where do you think you're goin'
Goin', girl?

Honestly, I know where you're goin'
And baby, you're just movin' on
And I'll still love you even if I can't
See you anymore
Can't wait to see you soar

Girl
Where do you think you're goin'?
Where do you think you're goin'
Goin', girl?
Girl
Where do you think you're goin'?
Where do you think you're goin'
Goin', girl?

Dear Joanne,
Next week, on Thursday, May 19th, I am having surgery on my neck. Just like you had when you were with us. Discs will be removed, bone put in its place, and then a metal piece with screws will keep it all together. Joanne, I remember your surgery for the exact thing. I wish you were at my bedside holding my hand and telling me everything will be okay. I know it will turn out fine and that it is in the Heavenly Father's hands, and that is where it belongs. I will think of you and secretly hold your hand like we did so many times hiding behind the curtain when we were so little. I know you will be there in spirit and that in some way I will feel your presence. I offer my pain, discomfort, and fears for you that you are happily living in Our Father's mansion and that your adjoining room waits for my presence. I miss you so much that it hurts badly and the fear of living without you comes to me daily. But, with you and the Heavenly Father looking over me, I can only rejoice in that glory. Don't forget, next Thursday! Be there or be square! I love you dearly. Judy

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY MOM!
Today was a great family day. We tried to bring Shelby breakfast in bed the way I always did for you and it worked out about the same as it always has. Haily carried the tray with fruit, toast with peanut butter, flowers, and a glass of water while Sidney carried TWO bouquets of flowers. I played some touching Mother's day music on my phone while we entered the room so gracefully. 

Unfortunately, just steps from the bed, Haily spazzed out and the tray went flying! Peanut butter toast stuck to the brand new carpet while blueberries & raspberries sprang loose and rolled wildly. Water and flowers spilled through the air as Haily fell to the floor trying to stop the catastrophe but flailing arms and high pitch screens don't often prevent disaster.

We all laughed so hard that tiers ran down our cheeks. I can just hear you laughing as I tell you of our mishaps Mom. I love that laugh. I even stopped at Dunkin Donuts for a coffee and thought of you the whole time. I felt you with me today and that made it so very special.

I hope today was special for you watching all the family love and joy you helped to create. 

I love you Mom... Thiiiiiiis much.

~Jackey

My dear, sweet Joanne,
Two years ago, my heart was broken so badly that I did not want to go on, I just wanted to be with you. That has not changed. What has changed is my heart is being mended by and through Jesus and I am learning how to put my faith and trust in Him. I had a special Mass said for you today and I was happy to offer myself and my love for your happiness. I know you are with our Heavenly Father and His love is all around you. I will know that love when I join you, in the Father's time and not mine. My Angel Girl got so sick and had to be put down in January. It was so painful. Last week my Spirit Boy could not go on suffering from bladder cancer, so he was put down on Monday. Then, most shockingly, Sheba got severe diabetes and had to be put down on Wednesday, two days later. I just picked up their ashes last night. I really had such a painful time accepting those loses. But, again, I am accepting God's will for me and trying to make the best of my sadness. Lots have happened over the past two years and I will tell you all about when I join you. I've been in touch with your boys and your husband and they are doing okay as well. Of course, they miss you greatly. But, your little Nemo is now back in your arms and I am happy for him and for you. Pray for me my sweetheart, you know how difficult life can be. I am doing my part as God would want me. I am not nearly perfect, but I try hard. I love you Joanne and every single day and every single night, I look for you in the heavens. Sometimes, I think I see signs of you there and my heart is filled with joy. If you can, like you promised, please show yourself in the farthest star so that I know it is you looking over me. A kiss for now and a goodbye for a short time. God will take me home soon, I pray, and I will see you again. I will see Diana, whom my heart breaks for, and Mary Ellen who owes me a Dunkin Donut visit. Tell them and yourself, I love all of you. Hugs, Kisses, and lots of love my sister. My heart is with you.

Today... It's been 2 years that you've been watching over me from Heaven Mom. I hope you are proud of what I have done. I continue to live my life based on your lessons of love.

Giving up your identity to become "Mom" was your amazing sacrifice to Jeff and me. The way I carry myself as a man, raise 5 loving kids, treat other people, and show respect is my enduring tribute to you.

It's been 2 years since I've seen you with my eyes or touched you with my hands but I feel you in my heart every day. THANKS MOM.... I hope I make you proud, I love you. ~Jackey

Hey Baby, Bootsy, I left you a long message on this site's FB page, because when I wrote it, this site was 'down'. I wrote it on our birthday, New Year's Eve. Just want you to know that despite the deepest pain I have ever known after you were gone, I did do better this year than last. I lit a candle for you and put a lit sister angle next to your picture. I cried like a baby, Joey, but my pain is ok because I sacrifice it for you, that you are safely in the arms of our Heavenly Father and no one will ever hurt you again and you will never be in pain again. I live now for Joanna and Jeanna. Yet, I patiently wait for God to call me so that we are together again. The pain of your loss is more horrific than the worst pain I have ever experienced. I know that no one could possibly understand that pain, but you understand. I still see you every morning and throughout the day, I still hear you speak, and I still feel your breath upon my face. I still sit with your ashes in my hand and pray that it won't be too long before we are one again. As you did on earth, pray also for me in Heaven. Ask Jesus for adjoining rooms and wait at the gate when God comes for me. Kiss Diana and Mary Ellen and tell them I constantly feel their absence. Go to the Rainbow Bridge and let Zeus, Zoe, Boo-Boo, and Angel Girl know that I miss them in all the places where they used to play and jump and sleep. My heart is filled with grief, yet I go on as if I am happy, still serving my Heavenly Father with the deeds I do on His behalf. I am spreading the word, Joanne, mostly through my actions...Jesus said, "Don't let your right hand know what your left hand is doing." So, I tell no one except you that I serve my God in most all that I do. I hope the both of you are proud of me! Merry Christmas, Happy Birthday, and Happy New Year. My heart and my love always my sweet. Bonesy (Judy)

Happy Mother's Day Mom.
Thanks for being the greatest Mom ever! Can't sleep thinking about you... I miss you and I love you so much. ~Jackey

I miss you so much <3 however I know you are here with me. Right when I walked into work my first day I saw a section of just giraffes. & I knew right away you were watching over me. In honor of you today I'm wearing my shirt that says I wear pink for my aunt. I love you so so so much <3 you will always be in my heart

Dear Joanne (bootsey) this is my 4th attempt to leave a message on this day, the one year anniversary of your passing, I want to tell you that I yearn to touch your face, to kiss your cheek, to hold your hand to assure you that I am nearby, and to squeeze both your hands so you know that I will always protect you, This past year had me in constant tears, feeling that the largest part of my being was taken away, and that it would be impossible to live without you. With the loss of Mary Ellen and then Diana right after losing you, there was nothing left to help me through the most painful year of my life. In between these most painful losses, I was dealing with the trials and sadness and sickness of Jeanna. My friend, JC, who has helped me immerse myself in Jesus and continues to remind me of the obligations for which God created me. I will do that my sweetness and, in time, when my work here is done, I will be taken by the hand of Our Father, The Father of all, to meet you at the gate where we can enjoy God's love and kindness at HIs Banquet Table. I yearn for that day, as a child years for Christmas morning, You are the piece of me that I have lost and to whom I want to be reunited, I can only pray that the voice of Jesus calls for me soon. Oh Lord, how much I miss my other half! I love you Joanne, Love Judy, your bonesy!!

Aunt Joanne it has been a year since I received news that you had went home to dance in heaven. I don't know how we are picked to go home but I do know it seems that God picks the best and strongest people first. I wish so dearly that I could have one last talk with you or one final smile or hug. I wish I could hear you say that you love me one more time. I wish I had spent more time with you in the past 5 years. I hope you know how much you are loved and missed. Balloons will be sent up every year so you can get all my yearly messages to you that I wish I could tell you. I love you Aunt Joanne. Xoxo

I miss you Mom.

My Mom passed a year ago today. A life without your Mom is different. I remember Mother’s day at Dunkin Donuts, Thanksgiving with her favorite big turkey leg, Christmas with special gifts for everyone (her favorite day of the year!), and my birthday parties. 

All of life’s special days are different without my Mom but all of her love and life lessons remain. They remain in the way I carry myself as a man, a husband, a father, a son, in everything I do, and the way I treat everyone I know. I am the man I am today because of my Mom…

I love you with all my heart Mom.

Hi my sweet bootsy, Joanne,
Thank you my dear sister for ''dancing" in the heavens. I sat at the memorial I made for you in my backyard. I looked to the heavens and saw the star you promised me would identify you. I looked at it, still and bright there in the heavens, and then when I asked you to dance so I would know it was you, you danced! When I took Joanna and Jeanna outside to see it, they looked up at asked me, "That one Mommy?" I said yes, and that I would ask you to dance for them. And, again, you danced and we three cried to know that you heard us. I look every night since you are gone. And every night you dance for me as soon as I ask you. I am having a hard time my sweet trying to live without you. I am so horribly empty and sad. I want to be with you and I am asking God to take me home. When He does, please meet me at the gate so that I can enter it with you at my side. I can't stop crying Joanne and I am empty without you. Please tell God to come for me, I am ready right now to join you. I love you and miss you. Bonesy (Judy)

Happy belated birthday & happy new year aunt Joanne <3 I keep thinking of you and our sleep over with mommy. I have to say that has to be one of my best memories I have with you. I learned so much about you in just those two days. I miss you so much. I still have a hard time believing you're gone. The 3 of us are doing a walk and we all got shirts with your name on it. We're going to wear it in honor of you. So I'm going to get in shape so I can walk without feeling so tired :) The break is almost over and I go back to school. I've been having bad anxiety about it. So maybe you can light a candle in heaven for me like you used to do. I love you sooooooooo soooooooooo much aunt Joanne. Xoxoxo :*

Happy birthday Mayma Tessar! I miss you so much and I can't wait till one day we get to see each other again in heaven! Since you have passed I have thought of you and missed you so much and have tried to become selfless and caring just like you are. You made such an impact on the hearts of my family and I. We love you so dearly! Happy birthday Mayma, I hope you have the greatest day celebrating with our Savior up there. I love you!

John please call me, I am so sad to hear about Darling Joanne, I had no contact number for you after you moved! Please call or email if you can. You left a legacy of integrity, forgiveness, compassion and Love To all who truly knew you Joanne!

It is with great sadness and a feeling of loss that I found out Dear Joanne had passed! She was the sweetest and most loving person who held no bitterness and was so open to Love and Caring! A truly spiritual person! Love you Joanne, May your Dear Soul be at peace!
My condolences to her loving family!

Aunt Joanne, you are so greatly missed. You are a hero to so many and especially to me. You have taught me to fight and that is what I will continue to do. You weren't just an aunt to me but you were like a mom to me .You gave us so much love and I will cherish that love forever. Thank you for being such a big part in my life. You are so important to mommy and that is why I am named after you. I will never forget you, I'll see you when I see a twinkling star or when I see a giraffe. The memories of you going to Disney with us, the treasure box, crashing into shelves at target, and talking late at night on mommys patio will never be forgotten. My heart hurts to know you aren't with us anymore but I am happy you are with God looking over us. It's not goodbye it's I'll see you again my loving aunt. I love you always & forever.

I lost the most trusting and most respectable person in my life. Some of the moments we shared are the highlights of my life. I remember when I was little and every time I took a visit to your house I was excited. When I started going to F.S.D.B. in the fourth grade I was sad that I was not going home and you were the one person I could talk to. You know how you used to call me your champion well forever and always your my champion. Love you grandma.

Strong and beautiful are the two words that instantly come to my mind when I think of you Mayma, the years I was able to spend with you will never be long enough but every moment I did get to was so special because of your loving kindness and sweet heart. I will never know someone as compassionate and genuine as you. Love and miss you.

Joanne - this world is just a little less bright without you in it.. what a loving amazing mother, sister & friend you were to so many..  The love and kindness you showed to me and the kids was an example to all of us on unconditional love and acceptance. I am honored to have known you and to have shared a portion of my life with you.. What a wonderful legacy you have left.....  I know you are with God preparing a place for your loved ones when it is time for them to join you.. God bless you Joanne..  "Trista" Michael & Nicole

My aunt Joanne was an amazing woman. I will miss her so much but I can feel her spirit present with me now, and it is strong; just the way it was on the physical earth. I remember as a child aunt Joanne being there for me when the scary circus came to town and my mother and my sister wanting to go. The idea of clowns had me so afraid, so aunt joanne let me sleep at her house so joanna and my mommy could go. I remember her letting me wear her panther jersey, and sleeping in awe of her lovely room. Everything about her was so special and she will always be remembered that way. I love you so much aunt Joanne. You're forever in our hearts.

Me, My Twin, and I

Shared by Judy Pelio on 03/19/2014


Dear Joanne,
 
Now that Jesus has taken you to Himself, provided you with a room in His Kingdom, and invited you to His Banquet Table, I will forever strive to join you. I am a half of twin now and I no longer feel part of this world without you in it. Prepare a room for me my sweet sister and make certain that the room is next to yours. It is only one day since you passed and already I am struggling to survive in your absence. I just wonder if it is possible to live without you. My heart is so broken and my dreams are no longer important. I am screaming out your name and I yearn to feel the warmth of your sweet face. My grief is inconsolable and I want to call you to tell you how sad I am. I want to know that you are safe and happy and free of all pain. I want to see you smile and hear you laugh and watch you enjoy yourself.



I know that your body is being prepared for your wake and that in a few days I will look at a shell that once resembled me, I will look at a face that had the identical features of mine, and I will look at your body that was worn down to half the weight it once was by the cancer that overtook it. I will be overtaken with the physical pain of our separation and the emotional consequences of losing my twin. And, I will know that only an identical twin will understand my pain. You, Joanne, understand my pain and I will cry out to you to ask Jesus to take me home so that we can be together again. So that we can be Twinnies again and save each other from the pain and fear of those long ago memories that almost took our lives. No one will ever understand that part of our lives when we protected and saved each other from the injustices that we experienced. Thank you my Joanne for saving my life, for easing my fears, and for trying to take away my pain. Please help me now because I am having so much trouble breathing and my heart is overcome with grief. My pain is overwhelming because half of me is gone and I will not get it back until we are reunited in the Kingdom of God.



I will never, ever forget anything about you. Your loving nature and your desire to ‘fix’ all the broken hearts in the world. Your lit candles, which asked for the mercy of God for all those people in pain. Your kind words of encouragement and stoic nature to keep on keeping on until everyone’s pain was gone. You were so much kinder to everyone than you ever were to yourself. I want you to know “that you’re my hero, you’re everything that I wanted to be, and I will fly higher than an eagle, because YOU were the wind beneath my wings.” Goodbye my love and I will join you when God calls me home. Love you forever, Judy

I remember back to our days at All Saints and the great and fun times we had. God's blessing on you and my sympathies to Judy and all of your family.

Even though I never knew you but I myself a breast cancer warrior have a special place in my heart for my pink sister. I will continue the fight and fight for a cure for all of those who left way to soon. May you find comfort knowing there was a stranger who thought of you often these past few days. Angie Smith-Dail - co-owner INKtastic in Ohio.

I only knew Joanna for a short period of time, but in that time she was wonderful, kind and very giving to me. By reading the other responses I can see she was very much loved and will always be remembered. God keeps people like Joanna close, and I am sure she is in the right hand of god now. My prayers are with her and her family.