- LINK for funeral mass at St Peter the Apostle -

My sister and I, complete opposites in almost every way.  When we were kids she was always the quiet one, naturally studious, reserved, stubborn, she loved to sleep in, sleep during summer & school vacations; most of these continued right into her adult life.   A straight A student with a photographic memory and with an extraordinary brain served her throughout her life – brilliant in her marine life work.  She was passionate and devoted to her career and life.  Jonelle was magnificent and truly one of a kind. 

Just the two of us siblings and I’m the “big sister.”  I’m grateful.  It’s an honor to be her big sis and has been an honor to take care of her.  I will continue to take care for her beyond her leaving us, one week ago today 27 August 2023. 

My sis and I enjoyed A LOT of good times, fun experiences and created many memories which is super cool – since there was a 7 hour drive between us.  She used to brush me off with all of the selfies and snapshots I’d randomly take, she’d often throw in a snippy comment – but by the look of what my photo drive is full of – she cared and she shared her smile and has left me and our family with so many wonderful memories.     

My heart and our family’s hearts are all raw – ripped open as we move through this.  Words are inadequate when love is so great; we have faith, God’s grace and through the holy spirit we are holding together.

My sister experienced a decline in health over the past several months.  I’ve been with her most of the time alongside my brother in law since she learned of the disease.  Last week her health declined to critical condition - rapid progression of disease, my parents arrived at her home Saturday afternoon and she passed early AM a week ago, Sunday.    We are all moving through shock, holding together and wondering what she is doing in heaven!

When we were in high school, I turned her on to U2 and she literally became one of their greatest fans traveling the world to catch up with her U2 family for concerts. 

For now sis, Slante!  I love you.  You are magnificent. 

From one of your favorites, “U2 Magnificent”

Only love

Only love can leave such a mark

But only love

Only love can heal such a scar

Justified ‘til we die

You and I will magnify

Oh, oh, oh, magnificent

Magnificent, oh, oh

From my favorite, “U2 40” 

You set my feet upon a rock

Made my footsteps firm

Many will see

Many will see and hear

I will sing, sing a new song

I will sing, sing a new song

How long to sing this song?

How long to sing this song?

How long, how long, how long

How long to sing this song?

Love always, Shell