In Memory of Anne Sheridan

I have known my mother-in-law since I was a young boy of 10 years of age. That is when they moved back from Florida and purchased her in-laws house which was two doors up the road from my parent’s home.

I became friends with her oldest son, Jim, and would visit their home on a regular basis. Anne was always gracious and welcoming whenever I stopped by, and I never forgot her kindness and encouraging words. Little did I know at the time but she would become my future mother-in-law.

I started dating her youngest daughter, Kate, after a chance meeting at the Federal building in downtown Syracuse. The furthest thing on my mind at the time was marriage, but Anne somehow knew better and told Kate that I was looking to get married, and low & behold, that’s exactly what happened!

One of the greatest influences Anne had on me was with her faith. I had attended many different denominations of churches growing up and when I decided to commit to the Catholic faith, Anne, along with Kate’s father Jim,
worked with me and guided me during my journey to become Catholic. The best inspiration she gave me was not just her good counsel, but more importantly by her actions and life choices. She was one of the best examples of living a Christian life that I had ever encountered. During our time together learning about the Catholic faith I would strive to emulate her example, but admittingly falling short numerous times. Anne would always encourage me to keep learning, studying and put into practice my newly acquired knowledge. To this day I have yet to live up to the example that she set, not only for me, but for her entire family. She was a living embodiment of the Christian faith and I have no doubt that God is pleased with her work and that she has earned her place in the Kingdom of Heaven.

Anne was a gift to her family, and to all who called her friend. And she gave me the greatest gift of all when in 1964 she gave birth to this tiny miracle of a girl who would eventually become my wife, for which I will always be grateful. Anne lives on in each and every one of her descendants, and she has left the world in a better place thru them and by her presence. May God bless her and reunite her with her husband Jim, and with all who have gone before her.

Missing you already Anne. Kate and I will always have fond memories of you and our many adventures together.
Michael