Mrs. Cushing...I guess we met when Barbara and I went to Kindergarten. You always made us laugh, especially when you called (yelled) for Barbara. Your voice will always ring in my ears....Barrbbbrraaaa, I laugh every time I think of it. Thank you for making me always feel welcomed. Thank you also for putting up with all the craziness we girls put you through. Me, Barb and Bean, what a trio! I will always have a special place in my heart for you. Love, Mary Beth

Dear Shirley, You were the most optimistic woman I ever knew. No matter what curves life hit you with you always had a smile on your face and a kind word to lend. I think your faith played a huge part in this. I wish we had one more minute left for me to tell you that you are my inspiration every day when I get up to make the most of each new day. I will miss you from the depths of my heart. I know you're with Mike, you must be so happy to see his beautiful face. Love,JoAnne

Dear Mom - It seems like only yesterday when we first met. Looking back now, I probably would not have allowed my daughter to go out on a date with some skinny Italian from New York that drove a black pick up truck anf had the nerve to wear torn jeans on a first date. Not you - while I did detect some obvious concern on your part, you made me feel right at home from the first minute. I do realize that if Tom Sr. and maybe even Tom Jr. were home that day, I may have missed out on getting to know and love one of the dearest people that truly blessed my life. I hope and pray that you are at peace and have had the chance to catch up with your mother, father, husband, son, grandson and so many other loved ones that cared so much for you. I will love always and forever be grateful that I was able to call Mom. Love you now and forever, Your son - Tony

Dear Aunt Shirley and Family, I am truly saddened by the fact that my time with Aunt Shirley has come to an end for now. However, I have to be honest and tell you one of my first thoughts brought a smile on my face - that at least now Aunt Shirley was with the men in her life. Most of who's loss was too sudden and devastating yet she handled and accepted with unwaivering grace and strength. This reunion I know will bring great joy to her. Some, particularly Uncle Tommy, she has missed for far too long. As with Tony, I was blessed when I became a member of the Cushing family and have thanked God many times for Aunt Shirley - she was truly the embodiment of strength, grace, kindness and joy. I have learned a great deal from her over the years. So, Aunt Shirley, be proud of the job you did here on earth. The family you forged and nurtured and the lives you have touched. Heaven is a brighter place for having you there. Move over Aunt May, Shirley's coming to play!! All my love, Debbie.

Dear Shirley, Who would have ever thought my brother would marry a girl from New jersey(and not Italian either) but he did. Not only did I get a "sister" in that deal, but I got to met and know the most amazing woman I could ever imagine. From the first time I met you, I knew you were special, and you will always hold a special place in my heart. Sorry about all those "bad" words I taught Michael, but I told him not to tell Grandma Shirley. Say hello to him for me . Love you both.