Our Angel

It was very hard for me to miss Granny's funeral, but I find solace in knowing that I got to tell her good-bye on the phone, and knowing the kind of person she was, she would have understood.

But I still needed my own little moment for her the day of the services. While walking through the Sacred Grove (Religious Historical Site) in New York, I decided that I wanted to take a leaf and float it down the creek just outside the grove. While doing that I was listening (on my ipod)to: "Each Life That Touches Ours For Good," a beautiful song...and fit the moment. It may sound corney, but I felt close to Granny, even though it was only about 5 minutes that we stopped...it meant a lot to me to do that.

I cherish the things I have that remind me of you. I have a pottery bowl that you got on one of your trips abrod, and it reminds me of your exceptance of other people and cultures. I have a quilt that you and I made together when I came to stay with you and Gramps for the summer, and it reminds me of all the many other quilts you made and your talent for doing it. I also have a small statue of Christ, and it reminds me of all the many Christ-like qualities you had mastered that I am still striving to be. It also reminds me how often you would share your testimony of the gospel, and how I need to be better at that. Lastly I have baby quilt you made that reminds me of your love for your family.

I have always described her as "An Angel on Earth" because, she was. Her always looking for the good in people, never speaking ill of anyone, un-matched patience, abundance of church service and charity, her strong testimony of the gospel, and never-ending love...can you describe an Angel another way?

I miss her, and will continue to strive towards the amazing example that she set for us all! LOVE YOU GRANNY!

Here are the posts from the online obit the paper sponsors.

May 23, 2008
	I'm sorry to hear about her passing. She was a wonderful lady who always had a smile on her face. She was full of wisdom and inspirational thoughts that I remember her sharing during lessons at church. May the memories be something you always cherish.
	Lorene Coe (Boise, ID)

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	May 23, 2008
	Vilate (Mom) was always like a mother to me, as my own dear mom died at a very early age before my 3 boys were born. She was more "Christlike" than possibly anyone I have ever known. Even after her oldest son, Harry and I divorced, we continued to stay in touch, along with the rest of the family. She was kind, loving and never had ill will toward anyone. She will always be my "shining example" and someone I can strive to be more like each day.
	Linda Bradbury (Spring Creek, NV)

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	May 21, 2008
	From the first time I met Sister Stewart there was a warm glow of love and kindness that radiated. I so enjoyed getting to know her and recognized the light that shown from her eyes was that representation of her life. She was a valiant spirt, a dear lady and a wonderful example. She and Jill were the greatest examples of what a mother-daughter relationship should be, love and devotion. Thank you both.
	Teresa Steel (Boise, ID)

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	May 20, 2008
	Mother was always there for me and a sterling example in all ways. She never had a bad word to say about anyone. Her motto was "look for the good." I love her.
	Jill Lister (Boise, ID)

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	May 20, 2008
	I remember Vilate and Harry as an energetic couple, full of life and loved to dance. We had many wonderful conversations on the dance floor at at various church functions. She is remembered fondly. Myrna Melchior, Ventura 4th Ward
	Myrna Melchior (Venutra, CA)

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	May 20, 2008
	I love you mom. You were the greatest mom a son could have. I am glad I could spend the last week with you.
	David Stewart (Ventura, CA)