A Son's Tribute

On July 3, 2000 on what would have been our 30th Anniversary, we laid Lorraine to rest at Florida National Cemetery. The memorial service began with the playing of "The Wind Beneath My Wings". Our son, Tony spoke the following words in tribute to his mom.

THANKS MOM

When I began to think about what I would say here today, it became readily apparent that one couldn't summarize over 30 years of love, devotion, and sacrifice of this extraordinary woman into a few brief minutes. Even if we had the time, those of us gathered here today could only recall a fraction of what mom did for and meant to us

So rather than recount her life, I chose to illustrate how mom will live on in us and say;

Thanks, mom.

The song, "Wind Beneath my Wings" was chosen because of its appropriateness. That was mom - support. Like the wind, she was often the unseen support of our family. Never taking the limelight, but always there with her care, kindness and love. She was the glue that held us together and she always brought out the best in her family,

Thanks, mom.

In our last days together she shared with me the pride she had in Mark and I. She was successful at the greatest challenge anyone can undertake - parenthood. She was proud for the way we turned out. In her praise she never stopped to acknowledge her own well-deserved credit. She was "The Wind Beneath our Wings."

Thanks, mom.

As a new and very young father, I remember facing the awesome responsibility of parenting. Once I shared with dad that this was a challenge I never feared. This was because as I was raised, unbeknownst to me at the time, I was also being taught how to raise my future children - mom's future grandchildren. Mom and dad were such great parents and through their example, I had confidence in Karen's and my ability to raise our family.

Thanks, mom.

It is said that a son will likely marry someone like his mother. It is with crystal clear clarity that I see mom in Jenny and Karen. The ability to roll with a good joke (even when you're the butt of it) and yet, be tough as nails when times get rough. Dad, it is through the experiences that Mark and Jenny, Karen and I share that we will only begin to understand what Mom meant to you. 30 years ago today mom and dad said, "I do", and I know without a doubt they'd do it all over again - the true measure of a successful marriage.

Dad, on your behalf I say
Thanks to you my beloved wife, and best friend.

The void created by mom's passing will be filled by the memories of her. She was, and will forever be the centerpiece of our family.

Lorraine / mom, The Wind Beneath our Wings, we will eternally love you.

Thanks, mom.

-- Anthony J. Fleming - July 3, 2000