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A Eulogy for Aunt Virginia

My aunts and uncles (left to right): Jane, John (Dad), Virginia, Martin, Kenneth, Mary, Margaret

I remember when Aunt Ginny was in the early stages of dementia. She went through a stage of calling the same person on the telephone repeatedly, sometimes in a matter of just a few minutes. Right Dad? Well, I was no exception.

In late 2011, Pearl and I were preparing lunch. Our landline rang. Having caller I.D. I knew it was Aunt Ginny. So of course I answered the telephone:

“Hi Aunt Ginny”

“Who the hell is this”? she asked

“Your nephew Matt”. So nice to hear from you Aunt Ginny. How can I help you”?

“What do you want”? she asked.

“Well, I don’t know. You called me” I chuckled

“Who is this”? she asked again

“Your nephew Matt in Chicago, remember me?”

“Oh my. I meant to call my grandson Matt. Sorry”

And with that she hung up the phone abruptly. Pearl and I continued preparing food in the kitchen. Moments later the phone rings again.

“Hi Aunt Ginny”

“Who the hell is this”? she asked

“Your nephew Matt in Chicago, remember me?”

Well you get the idea. Although dementia is a very serious condition that should never be taken lightly, I believe God used this little conversation in my life as a way of remembering Aunt Ginny. The tone of her voice indicated her embarrassment of the ‘mistake’ and her laughter brightened the awkwardness…especially when she called the second time. I could so easily see the twinkle in her eyes and visualize her hand on her forehead as she leaned back in the chair, giggling. It’s a memory I will hold dearly for the rest of my life.

Remember, your nephew in Chicago already misses you Aunt Ginny.

Oh, and don’t get me going on the story of asking Aunt Ginny directions to her neighborhood gas station while driving together. Well suffice to say her dementia didn’t fail her directional memory. I was concerned we were going to end up in Cleveland.

All for the King.

10 thoughts on “A Eulogy for Aunt Virginia”

  2. That is a story of personal and precious hold dear to your heart memory.

    Thank you for taking the time to share with us, Matt.

    With love,
    Cousin Rhonda
    Antioch IL
    5th Dec 2020

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