Ma Elaine showed me what it truly means to have a mother’s love. She was fiercely protective of Melanie, always checking on her to ensure she was doing well and surrounding herself with good people.
She was sweet and caring, always looking out for us. I remember how she would visit us in college, making sure to speak with all of Mel’s friends before she left, checking in to ensure we were on the right path. Even as I grew older, the few times we spoke, she remained just as caring—time never changed the warmth she extended to me, treating me like a distant daughter.
And oh, her smile—it was so infectious, capable of lighting up an entire room. She will be deeply missed.