Grace C. Hester

Claire, when you invited me over for dinner with your family that first time, I was so nervous. Aside from the fact that your father had been a professor of mine who I admired (Dr. Hester, I was terrified that you were going to ask me specific questions about Edmund Spenser that I wouldn’t be able to answer), I’d never met your mother, and I didn’t know how she’d react to me at all. When I arrived, your dad was his amicable self, and your mom was calm, polite, and sweet. I was a vegetarian...

Dr. Hester and Claire,

We are so sorry for your loss. Grace was a beautiful person and I know will live on thru you both.

Regards
Ghias and Carlene Massarani (Nisha's parents)

Dr. Hester, Much that I know about the true nature of love I learned through poetry in your presence. I rejoice that you were able to know true love for such a long time and I feel pain that you must now grieve its tragic loss.
The true nature of love is eternal. You and John Donne taught me that. May it sustain you now. Your faithful student, Sharon Cooke

Dear Tom,
I was sorry to learn of Grace's difficult battle and inspired by her beautiful relationships. My prayers are with you.

Dear Tom and Claire -- Grace always seemed so beautiful to me and so mysterious in a graceful way. I always hoped to get to know her better and now it is too late. I will share with you a dear memory I have though. When our two year old son, Gregory died, Grace appeared in our kitchen and quietly and lovingly cleaned his high chair and then his toys and so respectfully, wrapped each one, then brought each one to the attic to store. In my foggy state, that made a lasting impression on me...

Dear Tom,

I remember countless lectures at NC State where Grace would figure as the muse--or necessary voice of reason-- for one of your more whimsical theories. Seeing the two of you walking in the neighborhood would evoke those times for me when I knew her before I actually knew her. I hope such funny, endearing anecdotes as you related--and many more--will continue to be a source of joy for you in this sad time. My sympathy goes out to you and Claire.

Tom & Claire,

We are so sorry to hear of Grace's passing. I will miss seeing her jogging in the neighborhood and always giving a friendly wave. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Jean, Blaine, Kiera & Haley Meyer (Fern Creek Court)

Dear Tom, It has been many years since we have met, but I remember with fondness Grace's friendship during the time our daughters were young. My deepest sympathy.

Dr. Hester,
I am so sorry for your loss. You and Claire are in my thoughts and prayers. Rhonda Webb