Merlyne Ann Guidry

My beloved mother passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 2, 2021. She had no regrets; I know because I asked her. She was 82 Years old and married to my father for 54 years. My mother was not the perfect mom because let's face it, we are not perfect. However, my mom was a child of God and tried everyday to be better and walk with the Lord. My mom was kind and generous. She taught me how to persevere because she knew what it was like to be poor (I mean, POOR!) in a way most of us will never experience. She was born in Kaplan, Louisiana and was the youngest daughter in a family of 11. Her oldest three siblings suffered from Multiple Sclerosis and were bedridden by their teens. This shaped my mom into learning the lesson of sacrifice at an early age. She married my father, and they had three children they raised together. As a mother myself, I realize being a parent is hard, and we never stop wanting the best for our children and grandchildren. Through the years Mom took many people into her mother's heart and truly loved them as her own. From her I learned about the beauty of love given and love returned. She taught me that it is okay to let people go that don't return your love or realize your value; love them anyway but love yourself too. Mom was steadfast in what she wanted and expected. Some would call it stubborn, but not me (well, maybe a little). Mom showed me that it was okay to have expectations of yourself and others but to remember we are all human. She was always ready to forgive with an "I am sorry" and would show them the same grace that was granted by the Lord. From my mom I learned to forgive someone who is contrite but also be cautious of falsehoods. My mom was quick with her opinions and her beliefs. She would tell you the truth no matter what, even if you didn't want it. From her I understood the value of truth. She used to say that I knew how to be truthful but with more polish. I learned the importance of tact from my mom's "truth pricks" that would sting with truth. Mom knew this day would come and tried to prepare me for it early. She always reminded me that she would not be here forever. She told me to enjoy every day with the ones you love and not take a single day for granted. She tried to prepare me for today, but I am still not prepared. My mom was strong, opinionated, kind and giving. She never forgot being poor, and you could be sure that if she could help there would be money coming to you. She believed in the personal touch of sending cards and writing letters. My mom was not a perfect mom, but she was the perfect mom for me. I just hope I can make her proud. Love Melanie