My family like many have gone through highs and lows. Joy and sadness and this past week is no different. So tonight I want to tell you about a woman who meant a lot as I was growing.
See this woman to the left, Her name was Reba Evelyn Ray. Though you would never know her middle name. She was the youngest of 12 kids. She lived in a time that a small town really meant small. She was voted Homecoming Queen, much to her dismay. She always had an encouraging word and could tell you some pretty good stories. I wont get into her private affairs but I can tell you with pride that she loved. Her family was her world and her friends were just as close. Any one who met her always left with a kind word and a smile, though I don't think she realized it. This woman could dazzle you when you got right down to it. And the most special and precious thing about this woman, She was my Memaw. When I was younger my brother and I would go and spend weekends with her. The little things I remember was the way her house always had a faint floral smell, though even that's not the right description but it always went home with me when I left. She always had the best cookies and always kept a can of Ravioli in the pantry, even when I grew up (which is something I won't admit too).She worked hard, she single handedly raised the woman who would become not only my mom but my best friend. I knew that I could always call her no matter what, even if what to just give into some silliness. It was a comfort to know she was there. She had a full life and though it wasn't always the easiest the point was that she lived. She included her child in some of her adventures and she taught us all that she was the Head of the family. She was beautiful and I think sometimes I took that for granted. I think the stories get jumbled with the memories and I hate that.
Like I said family was important. I am blessed that not only did Boo and I get to have her in our lives, but that our children got to as well. She lit up when you talked about them.
So after all of this and I'm not even telling some of the stories or memories, mainly because right now I'm a little selfish with them, The reason for this tonight is that I needed to say something. You see, she left us this past week. I guess she decided it was time to go home.And though you tell yourself its better, there is still this part inside that you know your going to be missing.She was one of my avid fans. From the blogs, to the stories to the books. She always encouraged me.She was a rare jewel and I will miss her everyday, though I know she is in good hands, It still doesn't make it easy. Reba "Memaw" Ray you will be missed but I will make you proud. Love you....
