When I met Vera about 10 years ago, early stages of Alzheimer's disease had taken hold. The Vera I got to know, I got to know through her family, their generosity and stories shared with such great love of her. Everyone who knew Vera became family and her children and their families, in turn continue to do the same thing. From the time I met Vera, I became family too. A great testament and legacy to a strong woman of faith, love, kindness and generosity. 

 

What I remember most about Vera was her beautiful smile. Her eyes twinkled in delight seeing her grandchildren, nieces and nephews, children, family and friends. She had a way of telling you just how special and important you were when you took her hand and she squeezed it and smiled at you again. "Little Lady or Lady Jane" was what I affectionately called Vera.

 

Her home was always filled with people and cooking for many people on any given day wasn't unusual. Enjoying the smells and wonderful tastes of Italian cooking, recipes passed down to her daughters, and seeing course after course of delicious food was just another day in Vera's house. A special occasion wasn't needed to see that you were fed as told to me by all who knew her. I never left Vera's house hungry!

 

I loved it when she would break out in song, or hum and you could see her go back in time to a sweeter day, rich with memories. She had a beautiful, sweet voice. I know Vera was not only kind, warm and generous but also full of fun and loved lots of silly things. Her entire family loves to have a good time, laughing, sharing stories, telling jokes and just being silly. 

New Year's Eve, always a special time, required banging of pots and pans on the stroke of midnight. I'd never heard of it and it was really a special, silly way of bringing in the New Year with hope for better things to come. Vera's family has continued this year after year. 

 

I remember when my Mom got very sick and we didn't know if she would make it. I told her about my Mom because everyone had told me how great her faith was. She took my hand, squeezed and said "I'll pray."  That was all she said and I was surprised to hear her speak and kissed her cheek and hugged her. Two days later my Mom was taken off the critical list. I believe with all my heart this "Little Lady" has connections.

 

My gratitude of having met this powerhouse of a "little lady" is very deep. I loved her very much.  Through the eyes and hearts and stories of her entire family, especially children Mary Ann, Dolores, Joanie, Nick and Loretta, all of you and Vera became my extended "family."  

 

It's beautiful to know that as an angel to so many, she is now an angel who watches over all of those she loved. 

My deepest love and sympathy goes out to all of  you and I share your grief and remembrance of such a special "Little Lady." 

I love you Lady Jane may you rest in peace. 

 

Michelle Fortier