God answered my prayers and brought Jerri into my life to fill the void left by the passing of my mother who was my best friend and confidant. I met Jerri at Spinner’s Flock soon after I joined in the fall of 2016. We bonded immediately. Even more than a “kindred spirit,” she became the big sister I never had, but always yearned for.

My best memories of Jerri are when, on the rare occasion, she’d drive down to Monroe where I live to spend the day. Our adventure would always start at the Craft Guild Fiber Mill. Run by adults with diverse challenges and specializing in everything alpaca fiber, it would become Jerri’s go-to mill to process her alpaca fiber. Next, Jerri and I would hit the local thrift stores. She was a bargain hunter extraordinaire! Last, we’d “top the day off” at her favorite restaurant in the area- the Little Brown Jug in Maybee- usually on a Thursday to have that day’s special, a classic open-faced roast beef sandwich with mashed potatoes and gravy. Jerri always saved at least half to take home to Brian.

Most of all, I will miss the conversation during these visits as it was rapid, easy, and full of laughter, fueled by her wisdom and boundless energy. Time passed too quickly because we were having so such fun. I wish I met Jerri sooner, so I could have enjoyed more time with her. Nevertheless, I take comfort now in knowing I will see Jerri again in Heaven eternal.