I first met Jeannette when we both lived in Roanoke, Virginia, and were members of the Newcomers Club. In addition to attending the monthly luncheons, she and I were both avid readers and were members of the Newcomers’ Book Club, as well as the “Stitch ’n’ Chat” group, and a few other Newcomers small groups.

When my family moved to Colorado, she sent me a letter telling me about an author who was local to my new area, and whose books she was enjoying. “I think you’ll like them, too,” she said, and she was right. Diane Mott Davidson wrote a series of murder mysteries whose main character, Goldy,  was a caterer. Included in her books were recipes of some of the dishes Goldy whipped up in the story, and I enjoyed those almost as much as the books themselves.

It was “déjà vu all over again” a few years later when my family moved to Minnesota. “I can’t stop laughing,” Jeannette said as she told me about Lorna Landvik, a Minnesota author known for her quirky characters and sense of humor. I’ve read all of her books, and met her on several occasions at book signings and other events. I wish Jeannette could have met her, too.

Jeannette has always been a fan of my writing, and has given me nudges and encouragement over the years that have helped keep me motivated. She has also shared my columns and blogs with her family and others, including staff and residents of the nursing home where she most recently lived.

I called her a few weeks ago, and we had a long and lovely conversation. She asked about my kids, my grandchildren, and my writing. She remembered details I barely remembered myself. And she recommended a book she recently finished reading and thought I would like. “I think your husband will enjoy it, too,” she added. I ordered the book right away, since her recommendations are always good ones. It arrived a few days ago, and I’ll think of her while I’m reading it.

I was shocked and saddened last Friday when another friend, who was very close to her, sent me a listing from a funeral home, announcing that Jeannette passed away last week. She was a week shy of her 93rd birthday.

Jeannette was one of those people who made everyone around her feel important, appreciated, listened to, and loved. I’m going to miss her.

January 29, 2025
©Betty Liedtke, 2025

I welcome your comments, but please be aware that all comments will be moderated and approved before appearing on this blog. This is to protect all of us from unwanted spam.