Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Aunt Jean was my favorite aunt. Her cheery optimism and happy laugh was sure to brighten any gathering. When Aunt Jean gave you her smile and a hug, you knew that you were loved and cared about. Love and hospitality were the hallmark of the Compton household; Aunt Jean was, as hostess of the household, the epitome of these virtues. My Compton cousins were the happy daily recipients of her love and caring; any of their friends or cousins who visited their home would be made by my Aunt Jean to feel cared for and loved.\
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Aunt Jean and Uncle Mickey were always there for my sister Sue and I, to offer love and hospitality generously when our parents died as well as when SueAaas spouse died of a heart attack. Aunt Jean, Uncle Mickey and our Compton cousins were there for us, to stand with us at both my parentAaas funerals. Aunt Jean and Uncle Mickey opened their house to us and offered refreshment and comfort at these times of need. When my sister SueAaas husband Bill died, neither my parents nor I were able to be there for Sue. Uncle Mickey and Aunt Jean were the ones who sat with her at the funeral and helped her at BillAaas grave side. To not extend love and care was unthinkable to Aunt Jean. \
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As the extended family drifted apart, we would always count on getting back together each Christmas at the Compton house where Aunt JeanAaas love and cheery hospitality found full expression. These were happy times for Aunt Jean, with her house filled with her loved ones.\
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With Aunt JeanAaas passing, the grand tradition of her hospitality and love is left as a memory for all that we can emulate in our own lives and families. \
