Shirley Mae Gernert Robbins

Mrs. Robbins must have been such a wonderful woman. Her daughter, Cathy, is a smart and caring person who must make her proud while smiling down from heaven. Attending a church retreat last weekend, Cathy spoke about her mom and it was easy to see her love and devotion for her. My deepest condolences to the entire family, (Wilmington, MA)

My deepest condolences to Cathy, Marilyn, Carol and Melanie on the loss of your mother. I hope you remember me. I spent a lot of time with you and the Panacciones growing up. It was Linda who sent me the link to the obituary. I remember your mom as a kind lady who always made me feel welcome in your home. Please know I am thinking of you all during this difficult time.

Mrs. Robbins was one of the mothers of my childhood. She filled spaces that my own (very wonderful) mother did not, with her practical yet stylish demeanor ( think REAL Danish Modern) and her way of treating us teenage girls like the smart adult she was. I remember her leaving me a note: "One of your headlights has a problem," which was her subtle way of saying "So you drove your car into a tree, eh?" I still have the note. This is just one example of the always-eloquent, practical, and fascinating woman that Shirley was.