To so many, she meant so much. If you knew her at all, you were gently reminded of a peacefulness that could only be portrayed from a woman of God. She raised all 6 of her children in church, even though my siblings tell funny stories of their younger church days, she made sure we all knew who our Savior was. If you were blessed to have witnessed her gift from The Holy Spirit, it was a site to behold, you couldn't help but cry at the sight that you were witnessing. I makes me so very sad to know I will never see that gift from her again.

She had such a gift of making everyone feel like they were the most special person on earth. She was someone who you could confide in, depend on, tell all your problems to without any judgement what so ever. Mom had the gift of wisdom, never rushing to judgement, never offering an answer without great pause or thought. I can see her sitting at her kitchen table quietly thinking of just the right words that would solve the problem before her, never too quick, never rushed. She had unconditional love for her family that was immeasureable, never giving up on people, always holding out hope for those who may have fallen short. I remember my sister-in-law, Sandy, saying everyone always felt welcome in Nana's home, when you walked through her door, you were welcomed & loved, no matter of the past, you were loved by her.  I have seen many mother-daughter realtionships that struggle, sometimes even becoming non-existant, to them a cannot relate. The mere thought of not idolizing her is beyond comprehension. She was an angel on earth, as I call her. Though she left us 4 years ago, her light still shines brightly to all who knew her. She has left a void in our family that will never be replaced. She was our dear, sweet mother.

So, if you knew her, please feel free to share a story of days gone by, when she was with us...a place in time I would return to if only given the chance...our dear, sweet mother, Loraine Benge.

Michelle Maupin 

(****If you would like to share a story of her, please click on "Stories" & share a memory, whether very short or simply a comment, her family would love to hear from you!!)