Marianne Pacoe

Marianne Pacoe, December 22, 2007

It is now one year since you left your earthly life and returned home to the Father.

You precede many of your family and friends, albeit too soon.

You join your parents and all those who have gone before you.

But, in your death, we continue to 'remember that we have to live memento vivere.'

Accepting one's death can be the most difficult thing to do.

But, remembering how you lived your life gives testament to your faith and how you made the world a better place.

In your final months, you were able to express your faith in a special way through prayer, particularly, with your pastor.

You persevered and embraced your faith through reconciliation and attained comfort and hope.

Though your last months were especially wrought with frustration, fear and pain, you continued to be centered in your maternal, loving influence and position 'memento vivere'.

Marianne's pastor gave witness when she said, "Marianne was all about authentic relationships."

What did this mean?

As a daughter, sister, cousin, mother, aunt, grandmother and friend, Marianne always made her views known, sometimes warranted or unwarranted, always with good intentions.

Marianne embodied the Christian spirit of love and compassion, was always selfless and made great sacrifices for those she loved.

We miss you very much and wish we could still share with you all our joys and sorrows.

But, more importantly, we must continue without you here and 'remember that we have to live.'

In your memory, we honor your gift of love and authentic relationships to make the world a better place.