Aunt Lil, childless in the eyes of the world, yet she raised so many of us. Her voice is the first I remember as she sat with me in her lap on that turquoise recliner and would read from the big book of fables and fairy tails. After the nutrition Grandma Leah provided, the desserts she lovingly prepared gave me joy. She tucked me in, and was there with my breakfast as I awakened. As I grew she gave me the chance to learn as she put me through the best schools. It was she who picked up the pieces as things at home went wrong. She helped make me the man I am today. I have so many memories like, lemon meringue pie, tomato soup cake, fruitcakes on the attic stairs. Dry roasted peanuts in a Dixie Cup, Fig Newtons, and café au lait were staples after school. Flash cards, rummy, scrabble and puzzles were her way of making learning fun. She knew that I held her responsible for my stubborn streak but would always reply with her typical. “Oh! Horse $#!+.” As I moved away we would talk often; she would tell me stories of her parents and of my grandparents. She became fond of telling stories of her travels and her work. I am grateful that Tom, my husband, got the chance to meet her and talk to her often. She was so good to both of us. I think she would tell me to “Be Said!” So, here is to the life of a grand woman who was so much more than a Great-Aunt to us. She has changed her part of the world for the better in her 99 years. We are grateful she had so long on this earth, but still we shall miss her.