Dear Compassionate Friends:

This month we had to say farewell to a special Friend. "Friend" seems like such an inadequate word to describe everything Sharon was to us. "Sister of the heart", fellow adventurer, mentor, cheerleader all help describe her importance in our lives. When Sharon and her husband Walt tragically lost their son, Brett, they focused their pain from their loss and created a loving legacy to their son by becoming very involved in Compassionate Friends. In helping other bereaved families they helped heal themselves and others with their gentle strength, kindness and understanding. For many years Sharon and Walt were "guiding lights" for our TCF group in Columbus, but continued to be so central to the activities of the Billings Chapter. I will always remember how many years Sharon and Walt were our "lights" and "memory" bell ringers for our Christmas service. Whenever there was a task, they were always quick to volunteer and ask how they could help, whether it was helping with the monthly newsletter or making beautiful centerpieces for a regional conference.

Sharon died as she lived—gracious, accepting, caring more for others' pain than she did her own. She had a dry sense of humor, but never was unkind or unfeeling toward others.

Farewell, dear Friend. We will miss your kindness and loving spirit, but I know there is great rejoicing in Heaven! You and Brett are having a wonderful time catching up. It has been our privilege and honor to call you "Friend." Watch over us and give us the strength to "keep on keeping on."

In friendship,