Mems,
Thank you for being the best grandmother imaginable. As much as I am really sad that you are gone, I am relieved to know that you and Pops can be together again.

You were a really special woman. There was always a certain easiness with which you led our family. I didnt know this when I was little, but I later came to learn that a lot had been asked of you at a really young age. You were tough from helping raise your 10 siblings in an old school New England upbringing. You came to know what was really important in life, and because of that, you provided the perfect example of both how to live and how to love.

Watching you and Pops love each other was a great pleasure. The two of you seemingly lived to love and support each other. It seemed almost like a fantasy -- as though the two of you were always in synch. Now that I have my own family Im sure that it wasnt always as rosy as it may have seemed, but I know that the two of you always kept you priorities straight. I loved my time with you and Pops maybe more than any other times.

You sure as heck knew how to have fun, too. You seemed to be the informal Team Captain of The Dirty Ole Birds Golf Club. You were like the Golden Girls, but cooler and more athletic. I noticed that when you spoke, the other gals tended to listen, and laugh too. It was super fun to watch you have fun with your friends over the years.

Lastly, thank you for loving me so well. You always made me feel comfortable, regardless of whether I deserved it or not. You helped me believe in myself and you showed me exactly what unconditional love is. Im such a better husband and dad because of your love.

So many amazing times. From golf and baseball, to eating at Yokens and the Weathervane, all the way back to when you used to fall asleep reading me books when I was little. Youre the best. Rest in Peace, I love you.

Matt, Natalie, Joseph, and Leo

My grandmother is such a beautiful soul. She meant the world to me and will always be remembered for her undying devotion to family. I think what I will cherish most, is how a room would light up every time she walked in. She brought out the best side in myself and many others. She is so loved and missed. I remember growing up and going to visit her and pops up in Maine. Wed spend summers together watching the tug boats go by in the bay or go swimming at my parents house. We took so many trips together and even when we didnt there was never a dull moment. Mems loved to stay busy. Later on in life, these trips turned into me visiting their lovely home in Florida. I admired her so much for her love and devotion towards Pops. Her and pops had the relationship everybody would strive to have. They lived a long happy life together, fulfilling their golfing dreams and family dreams. I am forever grateful for her presence in my life and will never forget how much of an influence she had on me. I miss you everyday, and love you, Mems. Rest peacefully with Pops.

Mems is the only grandmother I've ever known and she couldn't have been a more tremendous influence in my life. I cherish every moment I spent with her. I know I drove her crazy sometimes but she never missed a chance to shower me with love and affection. She was compassionate, funny, and so caring and everything she did was for her family. I, along with my brother and my cousins, are truly blessed to have called her Mems.

I recall countless hours spent at the Children's Museum. I'm confident our business could've single-handedly kept the Museum afloat, if needed. I LOVED to pretend I was her at the grocery store. I walked through, selecting fake fruit and vegetables, and of course, lots of dessert. I also LOVED playing dress up - Her Majesty Melissa. And I never wanted to leave when it was time to go. I don't know how she didn't just leave me there to teach me a lesson but she was so patient. No matter how obnoxious I was, she never raised her voice - she just said, "Now, Melissa, we won't be coming back here if you don't listen to me."

When I reflect on the most memorable moments of my life with Mems, I also think about our mutual adoration for sweets. I'm confident I can attribute the chubby years of my youth to Mems's inability to tell me no when I asked for Hershey's Cookies and Creme bar or a Reese's Peanut Butter cup. She also never questioned my deep affection for chicken tenders and mac n' cheese and was perfectly content to make whatever my little plump heart desired.

And she couldn't say no when I insisted I should drive the golf cart. She would laugh so hard but in hindsight perhaps that was nervous laughter.

She never missed a milestone in my life, no matter the distance or other cost. I remember countless softball games where Mems showed up early, walked around, got a reese's cup or two, and cheered me on from the bleachers. Every person she met became an instant friend, including my own friends. Mère was always a hit with my childhood friends, often picking us up and shuttling us around town, and always giving us snacks. Several friends I'm still close to were devastated to hear of Mems's passing and I know that's a testament to her unwavering good nature and kind spirit.

I'm sad that next year will be the first milestone in my life she'll miss. I know she would've moved mountains to be with me when I marry the love of my life. I still giggle over the first time she asked me - in front of Chris, in the infancy of our relationship - "When are you two getting married?!" I was horrified but I think she just knew he was a keeper and didn't want me to waste any time!

In all seriousness, I can't adequately describe how hard this loss is for the entire family. Mère was a matriarch in every sense of the word - strong, caring, and so wonderful. I've put off writing this for a few days because I can hardly comprehend that she isn't here. I miss her so much. I take so much comfort knowing that she walks with me everyday. Her influence will never leave me and for that, I am eternally grateful. I love you, Mems. Rest in peace.

Mom,
I am sharing some random photos with family and friends so they can help us honor your wishes to celebrate your beautiful life.
Enjoy!

Mom,
I am sharing some random photos with family and friends so they can help us honor your wishes to celebrate your beautiful life.
Enjoy!

Beautiful!

Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.

I have many happy memories from my childhood that you were a part of. You will be missed, but I'm happy that you are reunited with the love of your life. Rest in peace.

My sincere condolences go out to Susan, Rachel and the entire family in this time of sadness! I am so sorry for your great loss! My prayers and love go out to all of you, especially during this extremely difficult time! Please rest assured that Carol is now dancing with the angels :)

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

I will always love you and miss you. Rest easy, you were a great Mom and you always put family first. Say hi to Dad...Xo

You were a wonderful mother in law as well as a special friend. You will be greatly missed, I love you...Deb

Miss you everyday and forever, mom. Enjoy your time with dad!

Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.