On December 26, 2013, Mark’s sweet Grandma Carter left this life to return to our Heavenly Father. The world truly lost a most remarkable woman. She was such a great example of love and held her family very close to her heart. She treasured her family and we all have learned that from her. It will be very hard to not have her at all the family events and activities. We will miss all of her handmade birthday and holiday cards and most of all, her sweet hugs and kisses.
We are so grateful for the peace the Gospel of Jesus Christ brings us at this time. We know that families can be together forever. We know that she is in a better place and that we will see her again. This knowledge is what brings us comfort and we are so thankful that we have it.
Her viewing was held on December 29th. Many family and friends came to say goodbye to her and it was nice to see the legacy that she left behind. It was really hard to see her so still in the casket. This was the first time our kids have had to deal with a family death. They did really good and both Mark and I took time to talk to them about it. Sariah kept pointing at Grandma and saying “Grandma.” She loved her so much and I sure hope that she will remember her even though she is still so little.
The following day was her funeral and burial. We all were asked to bring something that we could put in the casket before it was closed. I decided to write her a little letter thanking her for her amazing example, accepting and loving me, and teaching me the importance of treasuring my family. She definitely made a lasting impact in our lives. Mark and the kids put in pictures of them and her. Just a few months prior to her death we were able to go down and visit them. We got some adorable pictures of the kids and her and those are the ones we chose to leave with her.
The funeral service was amazing. Perfectly fitting for such an amazing lady. We are so blessed to have had such an amazing Grandma! She will be deeply missed. At the burial site, Mark thought it would be a good idea to have everyone put on lipstick or chap stick and kiss her casket. She loved to give all the kids as many kisses as possible so it was only fitting that we returned the gesture and leave her with our kisses. It was a perfect way to say our final goodbyes. Like a said before, we will forever miss her but will always treasure the time that we had with her. We love you Grandma! Until we meet again!
