Colleen M. Ryan-Matthews

You are the greatest mother a kid could ever dream of, you always put others before yourself, no mattter what it was. Your death has made me a stronger person now that I look at my life, because you have inspired me to leave a mark on this world just as you did, by sharing you knowledge with the world and changing people's lifes. I will you miss you like I have never missed anybody else in my life, I will love you forever, Mommy.

Many years ago I gave Colleen a poem that I thought I'd like to have read at my memorial. I felt then that it would give comfort to my family and I hope it serves that purpose for all of you.

Do not stand at my grave and weep; I am not there; I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow; I am the diamond glints on snow; I am the sun on ripened grain; I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning's hush, I am the swift uplifting rush of quiet birds in...

I love you. BEST MOM EVER!!!

I will miss Colleen and all that she stood for. Her legacy will always be in my heart. She paved the way for others around her to live a great life. She showed many of us how to live as well as depart in peace. She's a winner in my book. Take care my friend.

Colleen:
You came into my life 5 years ago and we instantly formed a bond. You were and always will be a mother to me. Though not blood related, you showed me what motherly love was like. You were such a strong and remarkable person. I will always remember our "boutique days" and sleep overs. You will always have a place in my heart. You were such an insperation to so many people and touched so many lives. I miss you terribly but know that you are with me in spirit.
Love you:
Bridget

"God's Garden Must Be Beautiful"
God saw you getting tired,
When a cure was not to be.
So He wrapped His arms around you,
And whispered, "Come to Me".
You didn't deserve what you went through,
So He gave you rest.
God's garden must be beautiful,
He only picks the best.
And when I saw you sleeping,
So peaceful and free from pain,
I could not wish you back
To suffer that again. - Author Unknown

Your family will be in our thoughts and prayers. Your mother was a very sweet and loved teacher and friend!

Debbie Burdick
Lovell Elementary School

In My Pocket

I have memories in my pocket.
They rattle among the change.

My memories of you are treasures I carry wherever I go.

They are stored in bits and pieces, parts of a beautiful whole
They give me comfort when I think I am alone.

Yes, I have memories in my pocket, like so much other stuff I keep there.

But of all the treasures I have, it’s the memories of you that are the most precious.