Jacqueline "Tootie" Armentrout 1923 ~ 2010

Grandma died yesterday. She'd been sick for a while and we've had a chance to be with her during the process, comforting her and saying our goodbyes, but it's still not easy. I am blessed to have had her in my life for the last 33 years and I'm sad that our daughter won't ever meet her.

Borek Jennings Funeral Home in Manchester, MI, is handling all arrangements. They've posted an online farewell, her obituary, and it's beautiful. Click here to view it now.

In honour of Grandma, I'm wearing red today as it was her favourite colour. We're also wearing red on Friday, the day of her funeral, and are encouraging all who attend to also wear red. She loves just about anything red: roosters, cardinals, Poinsettias, and Santas. She had a beautiful collection of each of these and they always had a special place in her home. At Christmas, the house was always filled with Santas and cheer. She had a huge Christmas tree that would go up in the front picture-window for all to see. It was filled with lights, bulbs, ornaments, bubble lights; it was beautiful! I miss those days.

Holiday dinners were always amazing. Everything was made from scratch, including her pies. Those were absolutely to die for. I've never had any pies that come even close to tasting as good as hers. I guess theirs just isn't filled with the love of Grandma. We have so many memories tied to dinners at Grandma and Grandpa's house. There's the pickle incident with Great Grandpa, the sweet gravy incident with Grandma, the cheese in the wrapper on the hamburger incident with Great Uncle Reed, and many more. If you want details, just email me.

I guess what I'm trying to say is, that despite the family drama we've had over the years, my Grandma was pretty special and I love her very much. She will be remembered and talked about for years to come. I'm glad that she's at peace now and no longer suffering from the diseases and medical conditions that stripped her of a longer life. The staff at Grand Court Assisted Living in Adrian, MI, were wonderful. They were always attentive to her needs and showed genuine concern; it was clear that they really cared about her. They also took great care of us as we sat vigil with Grandma a few weeks ago, into the wee hours of the night. They provided us with nourishment for our stomachs and for our hearts. They were outstanding. We're also thankful for the support from the staff at Hospice of Lenawee in Adrian, MI. They, too, showed compassion and great care for Grandma. We were blessed to have had such wonderful people caring for her.

Visitation is this Thursday, 3/18/10, from 2-4:00 PM and 6-8:00 PM at Borek Jennings Funeral Home, Jenter Chapel, in Manchester, MI. The funeral will take place this Friday, 3/19/10, 1:00 PM, at the Manchester United Methodist Church. There will be a luncheon following the service and all are welcome to attend. Please remember to wear RED for Grandma!