We had the privilege of spending memorial day weekend celebrating the life of my incredible grandmother, Jane Carol Duffy.
Wednesday morning, May 23rd, Grandma passed away from a massive stroke that had occurred days prior. Through all of the tears, regret, and sadness that overcame me, I am grateful for this opportunity to remember all that I can about her and learn from her perfect example.
Grandma's Senior Picture
Highschool Graduation
When Grandma Duffy was a young mother, she felt that religion was needed in her family's life. She decided to pray. Soon after, she came in contact with the Mormon Missionaries. My grandparents along with their 4 young children joined the church. This decision has led to 4 happily married couples in the temple, 16 devoted grandchildren, and 4 great grandchildren (with one more on the way). Out of all of these family members, there have been 10 full-time missions served with one more missionary leaving in August. All of her posterity is active and strong in the church.
Grandma Duffy was an inspired lady. I always felt such a sweet spirit being around her.
These next two pictures have become some of my most cherished ones...
I cannot remember one time when I heard my Grandma Duffy raise her voice in anger or become upset in anyway. She is an impeccable example of one who shows patience. This example has been a constant in my life and pushes me to be more understanding with my own children. A few stories where her patience shinned through, are the following:
When I was young, Megan and I would stay up late with Grandma, sitting in her bed, as she told us stories. One night, she was painting my toenails (this happened often). I remember holding the bottle of nail polish, tripping, and spilling. Some of the polish landed on her night gown. She looked at me with a smile and said, "Now I never want to take this off".
Another nail polish story... We were shopping (once again, this happened often). I walked into the GAP with Grandma to look at the nail polish. Grandma told me to pick out any color that I wanted and she would buy it for me. I picked out a golden brown color. Before I could hand it to her, I dropped it on the ground, spilling all over the floor (what is up with me spilling/dropping nail polish? I don't know). The store's employee was frustrated. I could tell my grandma did not want me to notice the employee's frustration so she quickly escorted me out of the store. She told me to wait right outside while she went back in, helped clean up the mess, and paid for two bottles of nail polish.
Grandma Duffy's old house carries a majority of my fondest memories with her. One particular favorite of mine is when Megan and I were playing in the little trap door (as we called it) located in one of her closets. Megan, Grandma, and I had all crawled inside. On our way out, the door swung closed and bonked Grandma's bottom. Megan and I thought that was hilarious. We laughed for hours and Grandma laughed with us, even if she was in a little bit of pain.
I hope that I can give my children as much love and patience as my grandmother showed me. I feel honored and extremely blessed to be her granddaughter.
Thursday evening, May 24th, we drove up to Hayden to stay the night with my parents for the night. The next morning, we finished the drive to Seattle. It was absolutely beautiful there. The weather could not have been more perfect.
Friday afternoon was definitely a highlight of our trip. There was a small viewing before the casket was closed. A few family members gathered and partook of her beauty and peace that overcame her. It was such a tender moment for me. I am grateful to have felt my grandmother's presence with me while I was there.
Saturday morning, May 26th, was the funeral. It was beautiful. Uncle Tim gave the life sketch, the granddaughters sang "Consider the Lilies" (one of Grandma's favorite songs), Aunt Carol Ann gave an excellent talk, the grandsons sang "Called to Serve", and there was a fantastic violin solo. The spirit was strong and my testimony was strengthened.
After the funeral service, we made our way over to the grave site. My dad gave a wonderful dedicatory prayer on the grave.
Each family member then took their turn placing a rose on Grandma's casket. This picture makes me melt. My grandpa's expression illustrates the unconditional love and respect that he has for my grandma. Their example of partnership and love is one that Nathan and I strive to follow.
We then made our way over to Uncle Tim's house for dinner. We took a few family pictures while we were there...
Granddaughters (except for Katie)
Grandsons
Shae enjoyed a long ride up HIGH on Shaun's shoulders. They walked around for a long time, picking leaves off of trees.
Marcie and Erik came for the funeral as well. The kiddos enjoyed spending some time together.
Sunday morning, we went to church. That afternoon the family gathered in the Jenkins' home for a delicious dinner. They have a beautiful home with an amazing back yard. We did a little exploring with these two girlies :)
The siblings with Grandpa
I have a lot of respect for my Grandpa. He is an amazing man who treated my grandma with the upmost respect. We love him.
Annie could not get enough of him! She called him, "Great Grandpa" and was constantly showering him with hugs and kisses.
Sunday evening, we drove back to Hayden. We stayed the night and left the following afternoon, back to Rexburg.
This weekend was amazing.
I enjoyed all of the time I was able to spend with family. Especially, Rod and Carol Ann, who housed us. They were the most gracious hosts and their kids are ADORABLE. We will definitely be visiting again soon.
I miss my Grandma Duffy. This feeling probably won't leave, but I am grateful for her spirit and look forward to when I can be with her again. She is an incredible women who has brought so much good into this world.
Love you, Grandma!
