Not a day goes by when I don't think of all of the love, care, and wisdom my grandmother poured into me. She was an amazing spirit who transformed the lives of all those she met. To say she was an inspiration is an understatement. Margaret F. Thornton, my grandmother, was one of the strongest, most dedicated, genuine, nurturing, and loving people you could ever know. Being in a room with her meant being covered in her light and warmth as she made you laugh with her witty banter. She was a devout woman of God who loved missionary work and found immense joy in uplifting others. To know her was to love her. My fondest memories of her were in the private moments we shared. Those times when she told me I was beautiful, reminded me of my worth, and guided me through my struggles as she helped build my faith in God. She helped shape the woman I am today.
In this season of loss, due to a worldwide health pandemic, my grandmother battled with her declining health. Even in her most painful and weary moments, she continued to smile as she prepared us for her transition into glory. On October 27th, 2020, my grandmother took her last breath, trading a body wracked with pain for a crown of glory and perfect being. Although I miss my grandmother terribly, I am comforted to know she is at peace as she rests in the arms of Christ. Every day as I look in the mirror, I will see her beautiful face as I strive to be the woman of substance she taught me to be. I love you Grandma with all my heart and have joy in knowing we will meet again.