Thursday, December 12, 2019
Maria and I met when we were just 5 years old. She was pushing Luis in a stroller on the mall across from our homes. We grew up in Country Village during a happy time where families were the heart of the community. Francis {or Mrs. Lepore as I always called her because that's what we did back then} knew every one that lived on her block and all the surrounding blocks. Somehow she managed to even know what happened to all of the kids that eventually grew up and moved on. I think she had a photographic memory. Her home was always filled with her children's friends, relatives, and the best food you ever ate anywhere. She was the first one up and the last one to bed doing everything for her family. She always wanted to know everything you did or were thinking of doing, and of course never hesitated to tell you what she thought about it. When I was young it seemed that she was always pregnant with another baby, and sometimes I helped Maria babysit. I decided that when I grew up I wanted to be just like Mrs. Lepore and have 6 kids, be a stay at home mom, and cook lots of yummy food. Time passed as it always does and we all moved away and had our own families. Whenever we got together it didn't take long to feel the warmth and love that she showered on you and made you feel like a kid again. It always felt so good. She loved to tell you stories of her youth, her loving husband, her children, and of course her beloved grandchildren. She remained sharp, witty, funny, interesting, and always loving into her early 90's. She always still loved to tell you what she thought about how your life was going and what you needed to change to make it better. And being from the generation we were from, we still did what she told us. I am so grateful and fortunate that my life has been influenced by this wonderful family and will always cherish my memories of this remarkable women. Now it is time to say goodbye and mourn our loss but hold on to what she gave to all of us. I still want to be just like Mrs. Lepore and will always keep her close in my heart. Thank you Mrs. Lepore for being my second mom.
Love you always,
Karen
