To all of Shelley's family,
I only recently learned of Shelley's passing (we were away for sometime) and I can't tell you how saddened and shocked I (and my family) feel, I can only and hardly imagine the loss you are feeling at this moment. I knew her as Miss Purple, she taught 3 of my kids- in the 2 year old program. She was the reason I would ever have my kid in a 2 year old preschool program PERIOD. I loved her, and my kids loved her! She was the kind of person that never forgot a name and knew exactly how to comfort and care for the little ones in a way that can only be done by someone who was doing exactly what they were meant to be doing. She was meant to teach little kids, I am certain of this. I don't know a teacher that could match the energy she brought to a space, she was one of a kind and can never be replaced, the void feels heavy at school, and my heart aches for her own children, who's home is forever changed without her in it, I can only imagine.
She used to laugh when telling me that her routine with my jack in order to soothe him when i dropped him off in the classroom was to, "hug him tight, give him a sip of water and occasionally let him wipe his snot on my shirt, then bug him about it". My kids knew she was a safe place to land, her gift to them was her presence. She was funny, loving, fair, organized, she cared and it showed in every way.
The world felt better with her in it, i will never forget Shelley and I will make sure my kids don't either, and god forbid that my kids or any children for that matter, should ever have to leave this earth early, knowing that Miss Purple would be there to hug them, give them a sip of water and a safe place to wipe their nose, brings me comfort. I pray for these same moments of comfort for your family as your grieve the loss of a very very special soul. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
With Love,
Elya Cary