Background Music
"And I Love Her" by The Beatles





After the removal of a tumor in October 2003, Mary was told she had cancer. In mid-November, she had a complete hysterectomy. Her doctors told her, "...Don't worry..." and that they got it all. But after all the test results were in, she was told to get into chemotherapy right away and suddenly it was time to worry.

At Christmas 2003, Mary knew something was just not right and by the beginning of January, malignant ascites set in. Much to hers and our horror we watched as Mary's body systematically shut down.

Mary's existence here on Earth may have ended at 9:13 pm on January 26th, but Mary said she would be with us forever and I tend to believe that is true. We are heartbroken and miss her very much.

We love you Mary...you'll forever be in our thoughts.



These are the last pictures taken of Mary.
Our sister Annie took them on January 10th.
To grasp the fact that Mary is gone is difficult.



On February 29, 2004, Mary's ashes were released into the wind on a high, remote hilltop in Topanga Canyon. Close family members were in attendance. She lived in Topanga for 13 years and loved everything about the place. Now, she will forever be there.

Mary's brother-in-law read the following from a Jewish prayer book entitled Gates of Repentance. This book is used in High Holiday Services. Although Mary was not Jewish, the words were perfect for her and the occasion.

 With sorrow we remember Mary whose death has taken her from us. We recall her now with reverence.

In the rising of the sun and in its going down, we will remember her.

In the blowing of the wind and in the chill of winter, we will remember her.

In the opening buds and in the rebirth of spring, we will remember her.

In the blueness of the sky and in the warmth of summer we will remember her.

In the rustling of leaves and in the beauty of autumn we will remember her.

In the beginning of the year and when it ends, we will remember her.

When we are weary and in need of strength, we will remember her.

When we are lost and sick at heart, we will remember her.

When we have joys we yearn to share, we will remember her.

So long as we live, she too shall live, for she is now a part of us, as we remember her.


Later that day, Mary's family and friends held a memorial gathering to celebrate her life.
We'll never forget the incredible outpouring of love and affection that was shown for her on that day.

This is what I prepared and read.


Growing up, Mary and I shared a bedroom…sometimes even the same bed.

We shared walks to school, childhood dreams, and even the occasional nightmare.

We shared family pets, too. How will we ever forget Rocky, Peppie or Willie?

Forty years ago, we shared our excitement for The Beatles! Mary’s favorite was George. She even donned a Beatle-cut, which I thought looked so cute on her.

And after I had my children, I shared them with her, too.

I stayed with Mary the weekend before she died. Of course, neither of us knew just what little time she had left. I refused to believe it.

We ordered take out. ”The sky’s the limit!” she said, as she placed a $100 bill on the dresser. We asked and answered questions and cleared the air of some petty misunderstandings. I made her laugh, we held hands and slept once again in the same bed. And even though sibling rivalry was alive and well, we loved each other as only sisters can.

We can't have those days back when we were all together, but secret tears and loving thoughts will be with us forever.


The following are the lyrics to a song that was written and performed
as a lovely tribute to our beloved sister.



Kathy, Annie and Mary

Annie, Kathy and Mary

Annie, Mary and Kathy

Above are photos of me and my sisters taken waaay back when.
And, below is a photo of us taken in December 2002.
Annie, Kathy and Mary


Please sign my guestbook so I know that you were here.


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