I met Sally almost 30 years ago when we were in a women's group for several years. I remember how excited she was when her first grandchild was born. And what a good listener she was. 

We were 20 years apart in age but she made that difference insignificant -- except that her wisdom, warmth, and compassion were a model for how to live a life with heart and integrity. She listened, encouraged and challenged me in a way that I didn't have anywhere else in my life at that time.  

I am forever grateful that she unconditionally encouraged me to go into social work believing that I would be a good psychotherapist. My own mother died when I was in my late teens so encouragement from Sally was part of what I needed to make that decision, one that I have never regretted. She was to me, like so many of her "younger friends" the "mother they wished they'd had."

Sally was my friend, my mentor and in some ways, my mother. I am deeply saddened by her passing. Her memory is a blessing.  

To Sally's sons- 

I truly loved your mother - she saved me twice.  The first time I met Sally she was recommended to me by a leader of a breast feeding group in 1978.  I was suffering from a severe case of postpartum depression and she gently, lovingly and carefully put me back together and I was able to sucessfully raise a wonderful family of three children.  I always felt that because of her clinical expertise and care I was able to become a nurturing and loving mother and wife.  In 2000 I lost my oldest son to a sudden death.  My son Matthew was the baby who I brought to the weekly visits with Sally for all those visits that first year.  It took a while but I found Sally a few months after my son died.  Sally had been mostly retired by that point but did agree to meet with me again since I was completely devastated. She met with me twice a month for months until I was able to think straight.  The visits with her again were so therapeutic and healing and she was able to help me deal with my pain and my grief.  I will be forever grateful to your mother.  I am certain that she is in heaven.