My Angel in Heaven

My name is Sherry, and I was born in Orange, Texas, as one of eight children.

I have three older brothers, one older sister, and three younger sisters, so I guess you could say I am the middle child. Our ages range from 64 to 82, and we are a very close Catholic family. We are very fortunate that all eight of us are still alive.

I married my high school sweetheart in 1978, and we have been blessed with two children. Our son has three children, and our daughter has one.

I grew up in a very strict Catholic family and attended Catholic school. We actually lived across the street from the church and school. I truly believe that upbringing helped mold me into the woman I am today, with a strong faith and trust in the Lord.

I had a very successful career in the mortgage business for 38 years. I retired three years ago and now enjoy spending time with my family and friends.

My mom left us when she turned 90. The one thing I remember about my mom’s passing is that all eight of us were by her side when she took her last breath. It was so peaceful, and we knew she was no longer suffering in this world.

Mom was one of the most loving, caring, thoughtful, and self-sacrificing women I have ever known. She was truly beautiful inside and out. Everyone who knew her loved her.

All her life, she tried to make the world a better place for others. Family, friends, neighbors, and even strangers benefited from her kindness. I am eternally grateful for everything she instilled in me, my brothers and sisters, her grandchildren, and her great-grandchildren.

I will always love and miss her every day.

She is my angel in heaven, and that makes my grief for her a little easier. I know she is watching over all of us and guiding me in my everyday life. She will forever be a part of my heart.

My advice to other women grieving the loss of their mother is to always trust your gut and, more importantly, trust the Lord. He can and will help you with your grief and your everyday life.

Today, I live one day at a time, always beginning my day with gratitude and prayer. The older I get, the more I realize that life is short, and I want to make the most of every day by sharing it with family and friends. My love language is giving.

I also highly recommend The Fourth Quarter of Your Life by Matthew Kelly from Dynamic Catholic. It truly puts everything into perspective.

Love you, Mom.