This tribute is written to carry on the memory of my Gram, Mary J. Roll. She blessed my life in so many ways and I thank God everyday for the many years I shared with her. Even when faced with adversity toward the end of her life with the fact that she could no longer care for herself, she always had a smile on her face and would put the needs of others before her own. She loved life and embraced it to the fullest everyday. She also made the BEST applesalad hands down. She loved her family and having get-togethers.

One of my favorite memories is of the two weeks I spent with her and her third husband Walter in Las Cruses, New Mexico. I had the best time and every morning for breakfast she would make pecan waffles with fresh pecans she picked that day: because Walter and Gram lived on a pecan ranch. She took me shopping and my favorite one was the day we spent on the beach. The other special memory I have was of the adoption of our beautiful daughter Baylee. Gram was so proud that Chris and my prayers were answered and I think that she was especially happy that their birthdays are just a day apart. I also think that she was proud that she was there in the courtroom the day we finalized our adoption of Baylee. She had so much love for Baylee and it made my heart smile to watch their interactions.

There are so many things I loved about Gram that it's hard to put into words what she meant to me. I'm just thankful that when she departed from this life she didn't suffer and went peacefully, surrounded by those she loved.

All I know is I miss her very much everyday and take comfort in knowing she's in a much better place where she's not suffering, but rejoicing and I know that her spirit will always be with me.

In closing, I'd like to share this poem, which has helped me get through the rough times.