I am so sorry to be just now learning of your mother's passing. I worked with her for several years (many years ago, now) at Virginia Commonwealth University. I remember her with great fondness. I was a young paraprofessional, and she showed me unusual kindness. May she rest in peace.

I had the opportunity to meet your Mom through some of her health issues. She was a wonderful and interesting person. She always looked for the good in any situation. I loved talking to her about so many different topics. She was always the ultimate "lady" and loved you all so much. My sympathies.

Bev Folkedahl

Deb,

Dear Jon and Rebecca. My sympathies on the passing of your mother. She sounds like she was a remarkable woman and one I would have liked to have known.

Jon, Deb, and Carl,

I am so very sad for your loss. Your mother was an outstanding human being that gave far more to the world than most. She was an extremely bright and loving woman who loved learning and sharing it with others. As a librarian, there were countless young minds that she touched and directed in a positive way.

As a grandmother, she excelled. She loved her granddaughters Kate and Ellie passionately. In there primary years, Halloween was her claim to fame. Each granddaughter was made an outfit by her that was outstanding. I am sure countless hours went into them. It was evident that they were created from love.

Ilene Hammond was a great role model for all of us. She knew what was really important in life and she shared it. I am sure she has been welcomed at the gates of heaven with open arms and a new assignment. Women like her will always be in great demand because she was given the gift of tough love. May she rest in peace and know she made this world, a better place.

My sympathy to Ilene's family. She was a most interesting lady and I always enjoyed our visits. Until I read the obituary I had no idea of all her accomplishments but, then, she was kind of a private lady who would not want to be seen as focusng attention on herself. She was extremely proud of her family and their accomplishments.

May God wrap his loving arms around you and give you his love and comfort at this dificult time. We know he has Ilene wrapped in his arms.