Lovely Lenore

It was just two friends sharing some old memories on a quiet afternoon.  Still the conversation revealed a very strong woman who had been through some adversity in her life-and come out the other side stronger!

At the age of 97, Lenore was now living in a personal care home.  Her husband of 54 years passed away about 7 years ago and since she had on children and she was not able to live alone any longer, she began to call ‘Special Care’ her home.

She grew up in Archbald and went to public school in Archbald, with her four sisters.  She was the youngest, and there was a set of twins!   She graduated from Archbald High School.  It no longer exists! 

She had a very happy childhood and adored her mother and father .  Her mom was French and her father was Irish, so I’m sure there were lively conversations around the dinner table!

She worked as a CNA at several different places.  Her last seven years her position was at Green Ridge Convalescent Home, and she enjoyed it very much.  She really liked her boss.

Throughout our conversation Lenore was very positive and funny.  Those attributes would be what carried her through the most difficult period of her life! 

Early in her life she got married.  “It was a mistake”, she said.  She did have one son with the man that she would soon divorce.  She met and married another man when she was 43.  She said, “it was a match made in Heaven”.  He was good to her and her son! 

Though her son grew up and got married himself, he also made a poor choice for a lifetime partner.  His wife cheated on him, and became pregnant.  They had not been able to get pregnant, so, this was a slap in the face to her son.  He was not able to handle the betrayal, shot and killed himself!  Just 33 years old!

Lenore found him! 

How did she manage to survive the loss of her only son to suicide?  She said her husband was wonderful, and her faith in God was her anchor.  She also comforted herself by remembering that God would ultimately be her judge.

My visit with Lovely Lenore ended with a smile, a thank you and a promise to return and maybe dive into a little more of the 97 triumphant years of the Lovely Lenore.