Submitted by Walter Boomsma on behalf of Penobscot, North Penobscot, Piscataquis, and Aroostook Penobscot Pomonas
How appropriate it seemed that there was a strong hint of spring in the air… and the sun shone brightly on the day brothers and sisters, friends and family gathered to honor Sister Nellie Wilson. The rose placed on the piano served as a stark but poignant reminder of just one of the ways Nellie touched the hearts of so many.
The brief memorial service lead by Anne Staples and Brenda Gammon featured a number of testimonials regarding Nellie’s character and contributions and while the piano remained silent, music was provided by Tom and Heidi Clark and Rolf Staples. Nellie certainly loved the fellowship of Grange and the potluck suppers so it seemed especially appropriate when we joined Rolf and Tom in the final chorus:
Many years ago in days of childhood
I used to play till evening shadows come
Then winding down an old familiar pathway
I’d hear my mother call at set of sun
Come home, come home, it’s suppertime
The shadows lengthen fast
Come home, come home, it’s suppertime
We’re going home at last
Some of the fondest memories o my childhood
Were woven around suppertime
When my mother used to call from the back steps
Of the old home place:
“Come on home, now son, it’s suppertime”
Ah, gee, but I’d love to hear that again
But, you know, for me time has woven the realization
Of a truth that’s even more thrilling
And that’s when the call comes from the portals of glory
To come home, for it’s suppertime
When all of God’s children shall gather ’round
The table with the Lord Himself
At the greatest suppertime of them all
Come home, come home, it’s suppertime
The shadows lengthen fast
Come home, come home, it’s suppertime
We’re going home at last
Nellie shall be much missed, but the music and the memories live on! Don’t forget to sing Jingle Bells this summer… she always loved to do that!
