In the very early morning of Saturday, March 26th, Mom passed away in her sleep, in her home.

Following a few months without much change, her condition entered a sharp decline, both physically and mentally, about 3 weeks before her passing. When this decline became apparent, the family came together to provide constant care and companionship for her. Later, God blessed us by sending some wonderful in-home hospice caregivers to help, as well as Mom and Dad's dear pastor and his wife, who were very present, as were several fine church friends. 

Leading up to the end, I believe Mom and the family were all at peace — with one another, with God, and with what was happening. Now, Mom is experiencing that which was always her source of hope in this life: fellowship with Jesus and reunion with those she'd loved and lost. The rest of us, though beset by the strange gloom of her absence, understand and find joy in that. We're sad and happy and all doing ok.

Dad, who had himself been experiencing extreme fatigue, has since bounced back strongly, and is holding up well. We kids and various friends are staying close.

I know you were left without updates for quite a while, and I apologize for that. For a long time, there just wasn't much new to report. Mom's condition was neither improving nor deteriorating much, and we were all in an odd period of uncertainty as to what should be done about the cancer or its cascading repercussions. Although the family never definitively closed the door on the prospect of treatment beyond the surgeries, Mom had effectively decided she didn't want it. She didn't like any of the options of which we were aware, and the rest of us had mixed and unsure opinions. And then, when change came, it came quickly and ferociously, and Mom and Dad's needs required all we could give. I know none of you will begrudge me neglecting updates during that time, and I appreciate that, because I also know it would have been better for you to have known more.

Mom had prearranged cremation services (which was a blessing), so there won't be an immediate, conventional funeral. In a timeframe that is comfortable, we'll devise some sort of celebration for Mom, which will likely be small, simple, and not very soon. Any details that need to be shared will be posted here.

I think it's safe to say that, if you've come to read this, Mom loved you and knew your love. We're profoundly grateful for all of your interest, support, prayers, and kindness. Please take comfort in the knowledge that Lee was able to finish out her fruitful time on earth in her own home, in the company of her closest humans and animals — the family she had long and lovingly cultivated — and that she has now found freedom from every single thing that troubled her.

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We've received many lovely flowers, thanks to all who sent them. Going forward (lest dad be drowned in blooms), we know that Mom would have loved donations in her name to one of her favorite animal charities:

NOAH'S ARK ANIMAL SANCTUARY
A 250-acre sanctuary for abused, unwanted, and neglected animals of many kinds. In addition to donating, you can visit the sanctuary in Locust Grove, Georgia, free of charge. We have a great memory of visiting here with Mom. She loved going on day trips with the whole family.
Donation Page

SHELTER UGOLYOK
A network of animal sanctuaries in Ukraine, which has rescued and cares for hundreds of animals, from horses to kittens. They're also offering their help to people in wartime distress. Mom had a fond friendship with the founder, Alexandra, who loved Mom very much, though they'd never met in person.
Donate via PayPal:  pawsofhelp@outlook.com
Donate via Venmo:  pawsofhelp

LIFELINE ANIMAL PROJECT at DeKalb County Animal Services
An excellent shelter for local homeless pets. They've been a great help to our family, several times.
Donation Page