June 17, 2014

In Honor

of

Mother Itaska Jackson

July 13, 1929 -June 7, 2014

 

My Dearest Friend Trice, Mr. Jackson, and Family,

Itaska, better known as Trice, is one of my oldest and dearest friends. We lived next door to each other in Kinloch, Missouri. My fondest memories are of us playing house in the backyard all morning and afternoon. We baked cakes of mud and cooked many pots of greens and ham hocks with dandelions and rocks.  At that time in our make believe world, we did not know we were simulating qualities of our mothers for both our mothers were homemakers. We had no idea that those characteristics of our mothers would be the qualities we fall back on throughout our adult lives.

I remember your mother, Ms. Task, as we called her in the neighborhood as being loving, sincere, and a Godly mother. A Godly mother shares a special relationship with God. Most of the time when I saw your mother, she was either coming from the grocery store or from church on Sunday. I always received a pleasant smile and greeting.  I never remember hearing her raise her voice.  Every once in a while, I would hear one of the boys getting a spanking and pray you guys didn’t hear me the day before when I got my spanking. Children can spot counterfeit spirituality faster than adults. I am witness to the fact that your mother invested time to build her walk with Christ. She was the real deal!

I pray the love of God enfolds you during this difficult time. It is never easy to lose a parent, no matter your age. I pray for your peace and comfort as you and your family continue your life journey without your mother’s earthly presence. May God’s peace be with you. Cherish the memories you have created with your mother. I will always remember her for her caring and loving nature.

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” (Psalm 34:18)

Sincerely your friend,
Shelly (Nola Lee) and the Cothran Family