Shannon Pilkerton
Grandma,You taught me nearly everything I ever needed to know about life, love, and family. From teaching me to count with dominoes to teaching me to spell and read the dictionary with scrabble you were there for me more than anybody else ever was. You took me every weekend and made life a joy during a childhood that was more confusing than it ever should have been. We made spaghetti and watched M.A.S.H. on Friday nights and played games then would stay up late laughing and singing. Saturday was for housework and Sunday was for sausage with breakfast. You taught me how to make a bed, clean like a maid, and organize my linens. No matter how bizarre my ideas ever were you never judged me and would always listen to anything I had to say. You held me when I cried, cleaned me up when I was bloody, and defended me to anyone who had something cross to say about me. There are a million memories, no one more important than the next. Many people have told me that in a lot of ways I'm just like you and there is no greater compliment in my mind. We share the same kind of punny sense of humor, a passion for correcting the speech of others, and pride in a clean house where everything is in its place so that if it is moved at all we would know. You were a mother when I needed one and a father when mine was absent. Not a day has ever gone by that I didn't think of you, do something you would have done, or caught myself saying something you would say. You held no punches when it came to speaking your mind, though you possessed tact that I am still trying to master. We argued and fought but we always remained strong and devoted. You are and always will be my favorite grandma, my rock, my best friend, and the woman I admire most in life. Thank you for all you ever did for me. Say hi to Daddy for me and though it may be years until I see you again it will be but a moment for you. I love you and miss you always. You will forever be in my heart!Love always,Shannon