I was out running around doing errands today when my cell phone called me to a sad message. It was Joy who told me that Grace (or Gracie Poo) as I knew her, Hoover had died this morning. She had suffered a brain hemorrage yesterday morning and slipped away this morning. Joy (her ex-daughter in law, said that she wanted me to put out the word because that would be the way Grace wanted it done. (And she was right!)
Grace Richmond Hoover, native of Advance, was a piece of work. She brought the Home Economics Department at the University up to snuff and she never missed anything. I was so desolate from a divorce and scandal, that I went to Malaysia on a trip with her and others. This was nearly twenty years ago! I made up my mind that I would tell no one about any of this and Grace, my roommate, asked me nothing. I shall forever treasure her for her never prompting me or saying one thing. She wanted me to have a break and I got a hilarious break. I owe her more than I could ever repay for her silence and kindness and her fun all the time. Everyone going thru a sad time needs a tablespoon of Grace Hoover at a critical time. I have thanked her repeatedly for her giving me space and I will continue to do so. Her death does not end my grateful memories.
I love the memories she has left me with. But mostly I thank Gracie Poo for her kindness in what was the hardest time in my life. She gave me the courage to think that I had life ahead of me to lead in ways I could not imagine. Thanks, my friend. I owe you more than one! I owe you more than you could ever know!
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