I am at a loss for words to describe how beautiful Carole was…

I am at a loss for words to describe how beautiful Carole was to me and my family, through our lives, over and over, for decades. My life, and my children’s lives, were greatly enriched by knowing her. She is, without a doubt, THE woman with the biggest heart, that I have ever personally known.

Shauna, now 32, was the reason that Carole and I first met, at her day care, in Hollywood. Shauna loved going to see her, and so later, did my sons, Jason and Johnny. She is carried in all of our hearts and memories.

I remember many times that Carole reached out to help me or my family far beyond what “normal” friends do. She was a super-friend, being there, of course, when I needed day care, but also when I needed help in other areas of life. She assisted me with progress at my Church, she provided a bed for me and my family when we were homeless for a short time, she gave me enthusiasm and good cheer when I needed it, and the true unfettered love of a long time friend. Most of all, I remember the fireworks from the front porch on the 4th of July’s, when she invited us to come by, and the butterfly coffee cup that I drank coffee from when we sat and talked on that same porch, time and again, over the years.

I fell of off that porch, backing too far off the edge when it was crowded with people, that sunny afternoon, at her wedding. I landed in the bushes, got up smiling, and went to find her to tell her. I will never forget Carole’s face as she laughed when I told her, and I know with certainty that the good humor she has will help me recognize her in life in the future.

I truly wish I could be there. I think of releasing a few, or many, balloons and butterflies. I have not yet planted the butterfly garden at my house that I told her I would put in, in her honor. I will think of her every time I see a butterfly from now on. I think perhaps I often did in the 12 years or so since I’ve seen her, already, as butterflies are many around here.

Cassie, Carrie and Cameron, you truly have one of the best mothers in the whole world and in all time. She lives in many people’s hearts and each of you reflect the love she carried and shared throughout her life.

Kathleen Smith ~ Friend since 1990