A TRIBUTE FROM ONE ST PATRICK'S GIRL TO ANOTHER

Today's post is a tribute to Mary Skinner, well know and well loved parishioner of St Patrick's Parish who died recently.  This heartfelt poem was written by Mary Lou (Louie) Mallard Tucker.  

Mary Skinner speaking at St Patrick's Convent  closing ceremony 

"Mary Skinner

A perfect tribute for a Christian life well lived

I shared with a church filled with people for her today,

Fr. Dohey, Fr. Pat, and two other    priests  

Celebrated this sad day in the Month of May.

Father Dohey did treasure Bill and Mary's friendship 

As they appeared to be the salt of the earth,

They certainly left their mark on the St Patrick's community 

Her parents and grandparents were there before her birth.

As May being the month of our precious Mother

Mary was a great mother figure through the years,

Being the outstanding mother to her wonderful family

Also House Mother to Nursing students, for whom she loved and cared.

Some of my siblings knew Mary’s family through singing and softball 

I'd see her at concerts and nod to her from time to time,

I would see her at the deanery with Regina when I’d drop by

She would smile at me while church events were on her mind.

My cousin Rose and Cathy J. were heartbroken for the family,

They had been singing with Mary's girls for years,

Both Rose and Cathy were away on holiday

As they both share the sadness, the cares and the tears.

Jesus smiled at your mother and took her by the hand,

He thanked her for her job so very well done,

Jesus told Mary you would be remembered as an angel

But to me you are my very special one." 

This is a lovely tribute from one St Patrick's girl to another.  Thank you very much, Louie, for sharing this touching  poem with us.  I am sure your thoughtfulness will be greatly appreciated by Mary's family and her many friends in St Patrick's Parish and beyond.

Mary Lou (Louie) Tucker Mallard