First, a big "Thank You" to all for the wonderful comments, e-mails, cards, flowers and donations that have been coming in since Mary's death was announced. We, her family, cannot thank you all enough for your kindness.
Mary was a special person as those of you who met her already know. The persistent comments have been about her smile and her laugh. We will miss them both. We will also miss her touch on holidays - birthday's, Easter, Christmas were all more special because of her touch. She loved to give gifts. When traveling, she would have her eyes open for unusual items for someone either one of the grandchildren, her sister-in-law, or a friend. They were always unique and meaningful. She never stopped Christmas shopping!
Mary was a visionary. She quickly grasped concepts and ideas that others were slow to comprehend. She was usually two steps ahead of me, and would often offer multiple alternatives of which I never would have thought. She mentored and befriended many, always taking time to answer questions, or offer a suggestion or alternative. She loved new ideas! She loved editing the Journal and encouraged many to submit papers. She had a core of reviewers that she loved to work with (timelines aside, of course). The Journal was her "baby". What ideas she had for it!
We will miss Mary - wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, friend, mentor, counselor, drinking partner, visionary, leader, author, gift giver, touchstone, anchor, sounding board, teacher, board member...
If you would like to submit an article for the "Topic of the Month", please forward it to me and I will work to have it posted on the web site. Send to: wmerrill@merrillassociates.net.
Bill Merrill