Obituary of Rose Mancini

Eulogy by her daughter, Renee Mancini Summerall

No one knew my mother, Rose Mancini as well as me so I want to tell you why I can describe her in just three simple words: "More Than Love." Mom was truly "More Than Love." I cannot define or explain its meaning but I know that "More Than Love" is the most wonderful feeling and it does exist. Mom often expressed it through her actions rather than words. She made me understand that "More Than Love" is a love that is much greater than love. In Psalm 136, it is said: "Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, for His steadfast love endures forever."

Mom had 'hands of gold' and could and did make just about anything - women's clothes, men's clothes, children's clothes, Jeffrey and David's Christening outfits, beautiful flower arrangements, drapery and much, much more. She was fiercely proud and protective of her only child (me) and of her twin grandsons, Jeffrey and David. She was also a very humble person and never let on that it was, of course, her twin genes that had a hand in keeping the twin line running, which helped produce Jeffrey and David.

My mother never stopped missing her husband/my father, Charles Mancini who passed many years before her. She told me that she would have a recurring dream that they were dancing like they used to when they first met at age 23. They married in three months time and mom gave birth to me 5 years later. My mom was married to my dad through eternity.

Mom had the most wonderful day on the last day of her life and we are fortunate that those nearest to her had the opportunity to share it with her. On the last evening that mom and I shared together, we strolled through the Garden Room of Bridges. We sat together and mom did her lower body exercises independently. That evening, mom also called and spoke with her grandsons, Jeffrey and David. They had a great conversation. Later, mom and I marveled over the fish tank and then we sat down and played cards. She was as sharp as I had ever known her to be as she proceeded to win almost every round. When we returned to her room, mom got ready for bed and her kind nurse, Larissa presented mom with her favorite desert - ice cream. I had the pleasure of watching mom devour it all with great joy as we watched television. Later, I kissed mom goodnight and we each said, "I love you." When I left her room, I did not know that in a few hours she would drift away in her sleep and go to the Lord.

Mom never gave up the fight to be in control of her own destiny - where she would live, what she would eat, and even now - what she would wear and where she would ultimately rest. That was Rose Mancini.

And now, mom, when you soar beyond where even eagles go, I know you are with dad and have touched the face of God. To my wonderful mom, I do not say goodbye, but good journey. May the gates of heaven open wide to welcome you home with dad there to greet you. Dance on with dad and be happy. We are so glad that God chose you both as our parents, grandparents, in-laws, and friends.

We miss you now, but know that we will be together again because we recall the promise in Luke, Chapter 23 Verse 43, which says: "Truly I tell you; today you will be with me in paradise." Also, John, Chapter 3 Verse 16: "For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him may not perish but may have eternal life."

Good journey, Mom. God Bless you. Love never dies.