Tuesday, September 21, 2021
My dear Hennessey family,
My sincerest sympathies for the loss of your Joy.
September First. Odd that I remember that day. My thoughts were remembering the loss of my soulmate, that same day, four years ago. Little did I know…
Joy was my first and only babysitter. Such fond memories of how our families, so close, became even more so after we Dear kids were added to the mix. So many Christmas Eves with my parents and your grandparents, Dick and Carrie, assembling our toys into the wee hours, for our next morning surprises. Hours—days— spent on Haws Lane when living there while my brother was in hospital. (I was in kindergarten!) The thrill of being junior bridesmaid for Joy and Bill! And the honor of having Nancy Jane being my namesake. And, after life took me here, to the left coast, visiting whenever I got home, to catch up.
Joy’s loss is sad. But her memory will be with me forever. If I could ease your sorrow, I would. But you are all a tribute to her, and I know your pain will ease as her glow becomes stronger in your hearts.
Thinking of you all with love,
Nancy Jane Dear
