After attending my sister Shirley's funeral service and reflecting a bit, not only on the loss of my last remaining sibling, but also on the recent deaths of my beloved cousin Linder, my dear uncle Mac, my free-spirited pal Edna Leedy, and longtime family friend Reed Bertolette, I composed this piece about the passage of time, the departure of loved ones, and ... the comic potential when doves are released in the presence of an ornithophobe.Editor Jennifer Romano writes, "Our condolences go out to columnist Susie Duncan Sexton and to her extended family on the recent death of her sister, Shirley Jagger. This week, Susie reflects on the loss of her dear sister and on family. Click here to read this heartfelt installment of."Here's an excerpt: "So, these inevitable life events, which I have catalogued here, simultaneously stunned, saddened and yet enlightened me. Shirley's unique personality seemed larger than life itself…as had my dad's. Her peaceful countenance in death left an impression that I shall remember always…the quiet strength and the beauty evident in her tranquil face reminded me that I am proud to have 'called her…Shirley'…my big (though much more petite than I!) sis."________________________Kim Elizabeth Johnson: “Really a nice tribute to all the loved ones lost to you. I remember my sweet grandma, who lived to be 99, often lamented how living to be very old brings with it the pain of saying good-bye to pretty much everyone you ever loved. Ah, life...still trying to figure out the point of it all! Loved that, in the face of all this, Susie is still advocating for those without voices - a true animal lover in all scenarios!”John Mola: “I really enjoyed reading your column this week. Very interesting to hear your thoughts from behind the scenes so to speak. You portrayed your history with your sister and her life in general with grace and sweetness. Very well done.”Drex Morton: “Brava, Susie Sexton... My heart has hung heavily in my chest as I had to witness this weekend past the evisceration of my Late Mother's domicile for the last twenty years - while trying to preserve some memorabilia... I am presiding at way too many Memorial Services for people I have known in addition to the families I am coming to know as I help them limp through the shadows. Even singing Mozart with an ensemble tonight didn't smear the usual salve on my soul the way your writing has. A simple thank you is in order, but as a member of the clergy, I'm happy to report that the release of reluctant birds into an uncertain future is rapidly passing out of vogue, thank the Deity... Susie's writing herein has helped my bereaved heart immeasurably... Her memory of her early days is exceptional...”Rayma Gagnon Hogan: “Awe...the excerpt alone is very touching!! I had better get the Kleenex ready.”Susan Tunstall Hinton: “I know, it was beautiful!”Renee Cochrane Yongue: “Thank you. This is nice to be a part of this.”Tari Joyce: “Absolutely wonderful, beautiful Susie. Yes, we are family. Susie has such a way of putting things – brings me right where she is. To those of you who like a very good read, both Susie and I have suffered loss of friends and family lately. I really love her narrative. Bless you, Susie! I adore this picture of little girl Susie. She looked like she could have been a Hollywood star herself with those curls, her sweetness, the look of her face. Just darling. It is because of my knowing Colin Lively in NYC – that chance meeting in the 90s, and now we’re all friends for life! It’s truly a gift from God to know all of you. You make my world much better because you’re in it. This piece is very touching – healing as well."Kimberly Popso: “Very sweet. I feel like you all have become such a great part of my life these past few years via the web. I love what you put out into the world to touch the hearts of everyone you can reach. Thank you!”Paul Clifford Schrade: "I was very moved and impressed by the enormous loss in your family of so many gifted people! That was too much of a load for you to bear, and I just pray that you can find the fortitude you will need to transcend it! One consolation is that they have gone on to far greener pastures and all the struggle is over. Now remains all of God’s rewards which will be many. God Bless you all!!”Cathy Neely: “Roy, I enjoyed reading your mother's reflections. She has an amazing gift of being very creative with her words. We were saddened to hear about the passing of your aunt. The picture of your mom and her sisters when they were young is precious. I can see you in her face when she was a little girl. As you know, Linder passed away just a month ago. The memorial you and your mom sent to the humane society was appreciated….[Roy Duncan, Susie’s father] was a special person who loved life and people. I was a young woman in my twenties when he passed but remember him well! Special blessings to you and your mom.”Cheryl Schuman: “Going to miss my amazing mama so much in my life....but do rejoice in knowing she's truly at peace and her struggle with declining health is over. … Was so wonderful having your folks share in our time of visitation and the funeral. Love the images and the tribute. They are precious.”Bev Sexton: “Thank you, Roy”Helen Cochrane – “Thanks for sending - Susie is a precious little girl. Aunt Helen”Myrna Bailey - “Thanks, Roy, for sharing this. Your Mother is a remarkable lady. Her and your Dad are a great couple, and I always enjoy talking to them. Take care and thanks again for sending this along.”Kat Kelly-Heinzelman: "I don't think a day goes by that I don't learn something when I read Susie's. Thanks for sharing, and I love learning new stuff (things). Love ya'll."Patty Hunter: "Beautifully written, Susie."________________________Read about movies and nostalgia, animal issues and sociopolitical concerns all discussed in my book Secrets of an Old Typewriter and its follow-up Misunderstood Gargoyles and Overrated Angels - print and ebook versions of both are available on Amazon (click the title).The books are also carried by these fine retailers: Ann Arbor's Bookbound and Common Language ; Columbia City's North Side Grille and Whitley County Historical Museum ; and Fort Wayne's The Bookmark And you can download from iTunes Meet other like-minded souls at my facebook fan page Visit my author website at www.susieduncansexton.com Join a great group of animal advocates Squawk Back: Helping animals when others can't ... Or Won't