Theresa Cox
Theresa was my Grandmother 1st, my Mother 2nd (she adopted me when I was 8 years old). She was my friend and teacher, but most importantly was an example of a faith and love. She was my biggest supporter when I went to college after high school (even when I dropped out after starting my family) and when I went back later and finally got my Associates and Bachelor degrees. She was also supportive of my career at UF and proud of what I’ve achieved.
I may have gotten my love of reading from my Mom, Theresa Lillian Cox. But, I definitely got my love for crafts from Gram. Cross stitch and sewing the most.
She loved to bake and I think my love for cooking came from her too. Although I can’t make a pie crust like she could.
Gram was someone I could talk to and get her opinion and guidance (even if I didn’t always follow it). She was always there and available to talk to.
When I had children (Helen & Daniel) I saw another side to Gram I hadn’t experienced before. The love she had for all of her great grandchildren was evident. She was with me at the hospital when I gave birth to both of them. When they both were little she would write in a notebook every day something they did or said that day. Being the oldest, Helen has a couple more notebooks than Daniel does. But, they both have sweet memories in her handwriting to cherish. She’d sew pjs, robes, and short sets for them. They loved being with GG and she was able to see them and watch them grow from infants into adults. She was very proud of them both.
Then when I met Lester, and we were married, I gained a bonus son in TJ. She said, “November 27, 2015 another treasure entered my life, Lester S Smith and TJ.”
She would remark to friends who have shared with me that Gram talked about how well Lester treats her. The two of them and their sense of humor were a force to be reckoned with. I’m more serious and so the two of them would team up and the jokes and teasing would commence.
She often would talk about how sweet TJ was and there was just something special about him. They definitely had a special bond and it was evident whenever he came to visit.
She loved both Lester and TJ very much. Then when TJ met and married Tina. Their children Ryder and Jameson blessed us with grandchildren and Gram (GG) was in love. The children loved being with GG and Gram enjoyed watching them play with their toys. After the boys would spend the weekend with us or if all of them came for a family dinner / holiday, Gram would say, “Tina is such a good mother to the boys, she is so attentive and they are well behaved and happy children.” She’d also say, “TJ always makes a point to give me a hug before he leaves. I sure do love that boy.” Gram was the type of person that didn’t say or think of them as step grandchildren or step great grandchildren. They were family, they were ours, and they were hers.
I will miss her for the rest of my life. It was an honor to be able to take care of her during her illness (I had lots of help too). I hope that it showed her just how much I love her, appreciation for her adopting and raising me, and that she was a pivotal influence in my life.
I love you Gram!
