We’re back from our trip to Long Island for the services for my middle sister Frannie.
She passed away at the age of 51 last week, sending shock and sadness through her husband Jack, my little sister Dory and myself and our beloveds, and everybody else who she touched through those years on our planet.
So many people, we saw Sunday in the pretty funeral chapel in her neighborhood.
They told us all, saying hello to me again if I knew them, allowing me to introduce my dear wife Karen and daughter Elisbeth if they hadn’t met. They hugged me and shared their condolences even if this was the first time we’d ever crossed paths.
I saw neighbors who lived on our streets in Levittown and Stony Brook when we were growing up, and folks from Jack and Fran’s life and Dory and her husband Jim’s life, all with stories about Frannie’s way with them.
Thank you all for sharing these memories.
I know you made it better for Jack during these hours, of most importance.
I’ll carry your thoughts forever.
Jack’s friends started a Go Fund Me page.

Sorry to hear about Frannie. From the guy at 10 Redwing lane.
You are a great writer Mark. Sorry we lost touch so many years ago.
LikeLike
Yes, it is a sad happening in our lives, John. She was way too young.
I am glad to hear from you here, old neighbor and friend. Yes, the years went sailing past, did they not? Thank you for your kind words.
LikeLike
A fitting send off for a woman who so many loved. My condolences Mark.
LikeLike
Thanks, Paul. It was great to see the levels of love for Frannie.
LikeLiked by 1 person
So sorry for your loss Mark. Sounds like it was a lovely service and day.
LikeLike
Thanks so much, Leigh. It was as lovely as Frannie deserved. Very lovely, indeed.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Very young. I’m sorry such a loss has touched your family.
LikeLike
Thanks for your kind thoughts, Annie. I hope you are well at the library.
LikeLike
It’s a blessing to have many supportive friends at times like this. Best wishes to your family.
LikeLike
Yes, Scott. Everybody in the circle is cushioning the blow. Thank you, good sir.
LikeLike
I’m so sorry to hear. She was taken too soon.
LikeLike
Thanks, Marissa. She sure was.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hugs, Mark.
LikeLike
Thanks so much, CM. I appreciate your friendship.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hugs and love Mark. ❤ ❤ ❤
Diana xo
LikeLike
Thanks, Diana. Your words mean much. ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’ve been thinking about you and your family, Mr. B!! May time and cherished memories ease your sadness. xoxoxo
LikeLike
Thanks so much, Mrs. B and Mr. B. Holy cow, life hits us, does it not, my friends?
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, and boy does it hurt! ❤️❤️😔
LikeLike
I am so sorry to hear of your sister’s passing, Mark. ❤️ You and you family are in my thoughts and prayers, my friend. ❤️❤️❤️
LikeLike
Thanks so much, Colleen. Your friendship means a lot to me. ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
Same here, Mark. The thought your loss makes me sad. Hugs to you, my friend.
LikeLike
I feel the love from Colorado, Colleen. Thank you.
LikeLiked by 1 person
A short and touching tribute, Mark! Your beautiful sister, Frannie lives in your heart now. Sending you hugs and peace. (ŐωŐ人)
LikeLike
Thanks so much, my purring friend Patricia.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’s never easy, Mark, but it is so comforting to know that they were loved, within and outside of family.💕
I have a younger sister named Fran. We don’t talk often enough. Hugs to you and your family.
LikeLike
Wow, another younger sis Fran. You and I have parallels in our lives, Van. Indeed. Thanks for the hugs, my friend. Back at you. ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
i’m glad that you were all together to celebrate her life and mourn her passing. hugs –
LikeLike
Thanks, Beth. We needed to be right there. Thanks for the hugs, my dear. ❤
LikeLike
Sorry for your loss. Hope it went ok. Sometimes the love and affection, reunions too, help us on our way of grieving for the loss of our family.
LikeLike
It was a needed step in the process, for sure, rough seas. Thank you for your kindness.
LikeLike
A sad day for you. Gatorette
LikeLike
It was in the overall scheme, Gatorette, but there was laughter and joy for the great memories of Frannie, too. ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person