Smiling!
Josh was alone by his mom's side when she passed. It was very peaceful! His aunt was down the hall and JL had left to go to the grocery store. This is what she wanted. For 31 years its been just Josh and her and this is how she left this world. We called the priest and we prayed over her as we formed a complete hand held circle. As the phone chain started her house quickly filled with many many people whom she was close to and loved. They all wanted to be with her spirit and for each and every one of us who was already at the house. Her body was covered over in respect before the majority of the people came. The house was filled with love, warm hugs, and many tears.
My MIL dated a gentleman from the local funeral home for several years and he showed up to remove her from the house. It is very hard on him but he felt that he needed to do this for my MIL. They still remained close friends. JL, Josh, his uncle and I formed a human fence with our backs to the living room where she was. Out of respect the room was blocked from everyone who was either in the kitchen or in the sun room. We held hands and embraced one another. It was so hard to be strong when you hear their equipment and know exactly what is going on.
When her body was removed a comment was made that she left in class. That she did! She also left with a smile on her face. The corners of her mouth were pulled in and she was smiling! Josh said it was so nice to see her smile again. It had been exactly one week since we had seen that beautiful smile of hers. She was always smiling even though she may not have been smiling inside.
Today is going to be a tough day for Josh, JL and his two aunts as they make the final arrangements at the funeral home. JL's niece is getting married on Saturday and the family didn't want to put a damper on that wedding but he wanted things to get started. Viewing will start Saturday night and run all day on Sunday. Mass and burial will be on Monday.
This is hard but she is happy again and with out pain!