Marilyn Gallagher
Just about as far back as I can remember, I've been friends with Dan and Kevin. These 2 guys have been a major part of my life, our friendship has lasted for over 30 years.
Growing up, we spent just about equal amounts of time hanging out at one another's houses. It got to the point that we didn't even bother to knock, as each house was considered "home", and each family just an extension of our own. However, Kevin's house was always extra special.
Kevin's mom was an amazing woman. She taught all of us about Jesus (of course at the time I wasn't paying attention), how to be kind, gentle, and caring; and at the same time could cut you to the quick with just a look and a few choice words should you fall out of line. She had a great sense of humor. It is really hard to describe just how cool she was. I guess if you could combine equal parts of Cass Elliot, Mother Teresa, Harriet Tubman, Ellen DeGeneres, and Lou Gosset Jr (yes, she was that tough) you might come close.
Her home was always a refuge of warmth and love. A shelter from the "world of man". I can't even count the number of times I spent just hanging out over there. Somewhere along the line she started calling Dan, Kevin and I the "Three Musketeers", and the moniker stuck. We've been collectively referred to as that ever since.
In recent years, her health started failing, but her love for life and her faith in Christ never wavered. Through all of her suffering, she remained "mom".
She died last Thursday, and her funeral was today. Dan was in California and couldn't make it (although I know it broke his heart not to be here). Kevin sang several hymns, including "In The Garden", which I think was one of her favorites. I was honored to be one of her pallbearers. While I know in my heart that she is now in a much better place, it doesn't stop the hurt. I already miss her.
The Pridelands
Chris Byrne
Show n' Tell Thursdays
Maddox
