Ode To Gail

Activist, socialist, the final fight
Mother, friend -- professor in social work
Towards the end she gave me some insight
But leaving so quickly I go berserk
Yet memories are still what I hold dear
St. Paddy's at Winnie's -- acting so gay
She's our Edith Piaf, our chorus girl
Country Christmas -- Santa's helper -- riding the sleigh
Her heart of gold was transparently clear
Poker games, garden parties -- spreads her cheer
And could dance up a storm whirling a twirl

Now she's left to go towards Nana's light
Battled alone with family nearby
She lived on earth with all her strength and might
All we could do was pray she not die
In this life she did teach us very well
Communication messenges sent through
Her warm ice blue eyes twinkling with white swirls
"On this good earth love is free -- not to sell --
Always be honest and yourself be true!"
Remember our Little Lady -- eyes so blue
And blonde golden locks sometimes worn in curls.

Dining, campfires, burning the rug
Tonight raise/toast with a glass of red wine
Knowing that Gail is at peace -- safe and snug
Go through your memoirs of a lady so fine
Today we will say our final good-byes
Our angel to Heaven she's been sent
At the end of life she gave her last hurl
Knowing that friends connect through ties
Good-bye my angel, good-bye my good friend
I know you'll be waiting when my time ends
And life is forever that perfect pearl.