Denise Anne Richardson
My beloved daughter
Entered this world 9-7-1963
She made this world a better place
Escorted by her Brother Mikie
Who preceded her 9 years ago
And on the wings of angels
Left us with a smile on 3-7-2009
Denise battled Ovarian cancer for nearly 36 months
She spent her final 36 hours surrounded with love
was comforted by those she loved and trusted
including Louisa who was with her in a special way.
She got to Say I love you and kiss us goodbye
We got to say thank you
We got to say I love you
And kiss her goodbye
Denise did a lot of great things
for a lot of people
anyone that ever met Dee
had something to thank her for!
Filed under: Domestic Violence, ERA, Feminism, Misogyny/Sexism, Violence against women | Tagged: BettyJean Richardson, Denise Richardson, Free US Now, Mikie Richardson, Ovarian Cancer |
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Free Us Now Weblog 
I’m deeply sorry to hear this, Betty Jean. I’ll be thinking of your family at the latin mass tomorrow morning.
My heart is broken for you and your family, may God help you Betty Jean and your family get through this terrible and sorrowful time, I will pray for you and your family and your beloved daughter, God Bless.
May the memories of happier times and the love you & your daughter shared, give you a measure of comfort, My deepest sympathies.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Thanks for posting the beautiful pictures and tribute to Denise. I wept as I read what you wrote about Denise. God bless you and your family in the coming days.
Betty Jean,
You have my deepest sympathies and prayers. No parent should ever have to experience losing a child, and that you have now lost 2 and must deal with the pain of Louisa’s situation is beyond words.
I believe that God does not give us more than we can handle, and obviously God knows that you are a strong and incredible woman. Take solace in knowing that she suffers no more and can now protect Louisa in a way you can’t.
Most importantly, cling to the knowledge that Denise knew she was loved in a way that many of us never do. The horror of your situation made the love and support foremost in everyone’s hearts and minds, and Denise passed with the strength of your amazing family’s love. There is no greater gift you could have given her than to know that you did everything you possibly could for her, for Louisa, and for your entire family.
I know from the stories you have shared with us over the past months that the rest of your family will be there to support you, but never doubt that your PUMA family is here for you as well. We will be there beside you in spirit as you go through the surreal events of the next few days, and we will be here beside you for the fight when you are ready to return to the battlefield. We will fight for Denise, we will fight for Louisa, and we will fight for all women.
From one fraternal twin sister from Lodi to another, farewell, sweet angel Denise. The world is better for your having lived among us. And the world continues to be elevated by the presence of your astoundingly courageous and big-hearted mother, Betty Jean.
I know you will watch over her, as she watched over you, and that you and God will send her strength and blessings. We need her. She’s our hero.
http://www.gratefulness.org/candles/message.cfm?l=eng&cid=7934823
I send my sincere sympathy and prayers to you, Betty Jean. You have had to endure more than most can only imagine. May God, in his infinite mercy, look down on you and Louisa and give you peace.
I am so sorry for your loss. I have been through two near death experiences, and she will be welcomed and be at peace. It is those left behind who feel the pain, and the depth of pain reflects how much we loved the ones who are gone. The greiving never truly stops, but it becomes bearable, and joins the litany of other factors that make up our lives here.
I am glad you had this wonderful women for as long as you did, and I amsorry that she is gone so soon..
I am so sorry to hear about Denise’s passing. She was an amazing and beautiful woman. May she be among the angels. No mother should have to bury her child. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. May a cure come soon for ovarian cancer. Too many wonderful women have been taken from us because of it.
As strange as this may sound having never met you, Betty Jean,
I deeply love and respect you.
I have had an “afterlife” experience with two people that I dearly loved … no one can ever convince me otherwise.
There is another “place” where their spirit, including those unique things about their personality, lives on.
I believe there will be a moment when Denise will let you know that… a moment that no one but the two of you would know about or understand its meaning.
My deepest sympathies to you, Billy Jean, on the loss of your beloved daughter.
May she be joyful in the Other Side Camp, and may Great Mystery and Mother Earth hold you, her sister and all your family in their hands.
Betty Jean,
I know you are a strong woman. You have shown your strength many times over the past months.
I will pray that you can remain strong even in your sorrow.
BJ,
Our hearts are with you as you journey through this path that no mother should have to take. We stand with you today, and in the days to come, we weep with you for your lose. Take comfort in that you are not alone in your grief, and will not be alone in the days and years to come……
You and your family are in my prayers and thoughts today. I am so sorry to know that you have lost another child. And I hope that your strength and the strength of those you love and who love you will carry you forward.
Through your posts, we know how lovely a woman Denise was. She could not have become the woman she was, without the nurturing and guidance of her mother and those who loved her. I hope you can hold onto this thought during this time. And I hope the love that is sent your way, from those of us who hold you in our hearts will help you during these sad and trying times.
My deepest sympathies Betty Jean, for the loss of your beloved daughter Denise. Thoughts and prayers are with you and all those you hold dear. May the angels cradle her in their arms. RIP.
May I add my deepest sympathies to the ones already expressed on this page. My thoughts and prayers will be with you today, and in the days ahead.
[…] Denise Richardson Posted on March 8, 2009 by riverdaughter Our friend Betty Jean at Free Us Now sends the following sad news: Denise Ann Richardson, my beloved daughter, entered the world […]
Godspeed, Denise…Your courage was simply an inspiration to us all. It will continue to inspire as your soul lives on…
Betty Jean. all of us at IA extend our heartfelt condolences. Send all our love to Louisa as well…
Denise Richardson
On Angels Wings
I will come for you in the silence
In the darkness of the night
I will be your light
Be still and know I am near
You will hear my voice
I will claim you as my choice
Do not be afraid I am with you
I will call your name, embracing all your pain
I will raise you up on angels wings
Bring you home on the breath of dawn
Make you shine like the sun
And I will hold you in my arms.
Do not be afraid I am with you
You will hear my voice
“Denise, you are my angels choice
Come and fly with them
They will bring you home
I love you and you are mine”
Do not be afraid I am with you
I have called you home by name
I have taken all your pain
I have raised you up on angel wings
Brought you home on the breath of dawn
I have you in my arms, you will rest with me
Denise, I love you and you are mine
My prayers
Barbara
I offer my sincere condolences. I will pray that God gives you the strength and faith to help you though this difficult time. Peace.
May G-d hold you and yours in the palms of His hands and keep you close to His heart in this greatest time of need.
BJ and Family,
You are all in my thoughts and prayers, sending you love and strength during this time.
Betty Jean my heart aches for your loss. A daughter so young I can find no words to comfort you, your pain is immense.
I know, I lost a sister at 42 with Ovarian and my mother at 56 with the disease.
You are in my thoughts and the loss of your child and the grief of all you have endured is tragic.
My heart breaks for you and your family – I send you my deepest condolences.
Deep peace of the running wave to you,
Of water flowing, rising and falling,
Sometimes advancing, sometimes receding.
May the stream of your life flow unimpeded!
Deep peace of the running wave to you!
Deep peace of the flowing air to you,
Which fans your face on a sultry day,
The air which you breathe deeply, rhythmically,
Which imparts to you energy, consciousness, life.
Deep peace of the flowing air to you!
Deep peace of the quiet earth to you,
Who, herself unmoving, harbors the movements
And facilitates the life of the ten thousand creatures.
While resting contented, stable, tranquil.
Deep peace of the quiet earth to you!
Deep peace of the shining stars to you,
Which stay invisible till darkness falls
And discloses their pure and shining presence
Beaming down in compassion on our turning world.
Deep peace of the shining stars to you!
Betty Jean- Prayers to you. And a story I recently received.
A minister passing through his church
in the middle of the day,
Decided to pause by the altar and
see who had come to pray..
Just then the back door opened,
a man came down the aisle,
The minister frowned as he saw
the man hadn’t shaved in a while.
His shirt was kind a shabby
and his coat was worn and frayed,
the man knelt, he bowed his head,
Then rose and walked away.
In the days that followed,
each noon time came this chap,
each time he knelt just for a moment,
A lunch pail in his lap.
Well, the minister’s suspicions grew,
with robbery a main fear,
He decided to stop the man and ask him,
‘What are you doing here?’
The old man said, he worked down the road.
Lunch was half an hour.
Lunchtime was his p rayer time,
For finding strength and power.
‘I stay only moments, see,
because the factory is so far away;
as I kneel here talking to the Lord,
This is kind a what I say:
‘I JUST CAME AGAIN TO TELL YOU, LORD,
HOW HAPPY I’VE BEEN,
SINCE WE FOUND EACH OTHER’S FRIENDSHIP
AND YOU TOOK AWAY MY SIN.
DON’T KNOW MUCH OF HOW TO PRAY,
BUT I THINK ABOUT YOU EVERYDAY.
SO, JESUS, THIS IS JIM
CHECKING IN TODAY.’
The minister feeling foolish,
told Jim, that was fine.
He told the man he was welcome
To come and pray just anytime.
Time to go, Jim smiled, said ‘Thanks.’
He hurried to the door
The minister knelt at the altar,
he’d never done it before.
His cold heart melted, warmed with love,
and met with Jesus there.
As the tears flowed, in his heart,
he repeated old Jim’s prayer:
‘I JUST CAME AGAIN TO TELL YOU, LORD,
HOW HAPPY I’VE BEEN,
SINCE WE FOUND EACH OTHER’S FRIENDSHIP
AND YOU TOOK AWAY MY SIN.
I DON’T KNOW MUCH OF HOW TO PRAY, BUT
I THINK ABOUT YOU EVERYDAY.
SO, JESUS, THIS IS ME CHECKING IN TODAY.’
Past noon one day, the minister noticed
that old Jim hadn’t come.
As more days passed without Jim,
he began to worry some.
At the factory, he asked about him,
learning he was ill.
The hospital staff was worried,
But he’d given them a thrill.
The week that Jim was with them,
Brought changes in the ward..
His smiles, a joy contagious.
Changed people, were his reward.
The head nurse couldn’t understand
why Jim was so glad,
when no flowers, calls or cards came,
Not a visitor he had.
The minister stayed by his bed,
He voiced the nurse’s concern:
No friends came to show they cared.
He had nowhere to turn.
Looking surprised,
old Jim spoke up and with a winsome smile;
‘the nurse is wrong, she couldn’t know,
that in here all the while
everyday at noon He’s here,
a dear friend of mine , you see,
He sits right down, takes my hand,
Leans over and says to me:
‘I JUST CAME AGAIN TO TELL YOU, JIM,
HOW HAPPY I HAVE BEEN,
SINCE WE FOUND THIS FRIENDSHIP,
AND I TOOK AWAY YOUR SIN.
ALWAYS LOVE TO HEAR YOU PRAY,
I THINK ABOUT YOU EACH DAY,
AND SO JIM, THIS IS JESUS
CHECKING IN TODAY.’
Many people will walk in and out of your life,
but only true friends will leave
footprints in your heart.
May God hold you in the palm of His hand
and Angels watch over you.
For those of us who are already His, He not
only holds us in the palm of His hand, but has
engraved our names there, and we are continually
in His sight (Isaiah 49:16)
So this is me . Just Checking In
May God bless and guide you through. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Please accept my humble, but heartfelt condolences.
Betty Jean,
You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers in this time of loss and bereavement.
We’re here for you, Betty Jean.
So sorry to hear about your loss…my condolences go out to you and your family in your time of need…
Betty Jean,
I’m at a loss to put into words how you must feel about your loss …..
Please know your in my thoughts and prayers at this very difficult time
I am so very sorry for your loss.
May she rest in peace!!
God speed Denise!
I am so very sorry for your loss.
May she rest in peace!
God speed Denise…
In memory of Denise Richardson and with love for Betty Jean Kling. You are in my thoughts and prayers. We are standing beside you and keeping you close in our hearts. You are not alone.
Parable of immortality ( A ship leaves . . . )
by Henry Van Dyke – 1852 – 1933
I am standing by the seashore.
A ship at my side spreads her white sails to the morning breeze
and starts for the blue ocean.
She is an object of beauty and strength,
and I stand and watch until at last she hangs like a peck of white cloud
just where the sun and sky come down to mingle with each other.
Then someone at my side says :
– ‘There she goes!
Gone where?
Gone from my sight – that is all.
She is just as large in mast and hull and spar
as she was when she left my side
and just as able to bear her load of living freight
to the places of destination.
Her diminished size is in me, not in her.
And just at the moment when someone at my side says:
– ‘There she goes! ‘,
there are other eyes watching her coming,
and other voices ready to take up the glad shout :
– ‘Here she comes!’
Betty Jean,
My heart and prayers go out to you. May God hold you in His loving arms and surround you with His support and love more than ever now.
God speed Denise, no more pain. Join the Angels above.
When I am gone, release me, let me go.
I have so many things to see and do,
You mustn’t tie yourself to me with too many tears,
But be thankful we had so many good years.
I gave you my love, and you can only guess
How much you’ve given me in happiness.
I thank you for the love that you have shown,
But now it is time I traveled on alone.
So grieve for me a while, if grieve you must
Then let your grief be comforted by trust
That it is only for a while that we must part,
So treasure the memories within your heart.
I won’t be far away for life goes on.
And if you need me, call and I will come.
Though you can’t see or touch me, I will be near
And if you listen with your heart, you’ll hear
All my love around you soft and clear
And then, when you come this way alone,
I’ll greet you with a smile and a “Welcome Home”.
Emily Dickinson
You will be missed, Denise. All my love to the family.
Dear BJ,
My deepest sympathies for you and your family at this time of loss and grief. I pray for you and your family. Dee Dee is no longer suffering, but your suffering is something no mother should ever have to face. It is unnatural to lose a child and it is every mothers most horrific and frightening thought and fear. I know you will get through this somehow with Gods loving arms around you and with the support of your family and friends.
Please stay strong and take care of yourself. Know that I am thinking of you.
Love,
Sheri
[…] *NOTE: In January, I wrote this post, in large part to try to make sense of the senseless, especially in the face of the tragedy being faced by fellow PUMA, Betty Jean Kling, and her daughters, (pictured above) Denise Richardson, then sufferring with ovarian cancer, and Louisa Richardson-Rodas, who had been shot in the face with a shotgun by her former brother-in-law. On March 7, 2009, Denise Richardson lost her valiant battle. Please take a moment to visit Betty Jean in her time of need, here. […]
I have put this on Democracy In Suffrage, all of us are deeply trouble of your loss anything just call me…
I just heard from a fab40 friend of your daughter’s passing. I am deeply sorry for your loss and for the suffering your family has endured. I know that there are no words that could possibly ease your sorrow. Just know she will always be with you and now Louisa has yet one more angel in heaven to help her through her recovery.
God bless you and your family
Betty Jean,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family in your time of deepest sorrow. Please know that we are here for you. I know your daughter is no longer suffering in pain, and she can now have peace. She is and her brother are together watching over you and Louisa. God bless you and your family.
we pray for ou in your sorrow.remember what a joyous time it will be when we meet again in heaven..
Dear Betty Jean, I am sorry for your loss.. My deepest heart felt sympathy goes out to you and your family…We are here for YOU…Warm Regards, Suzanne
My deepest condolences to the family and friends who are affected by this loss. May Denise rest in peace
Dear Betty Jean,
Our sincere condolences for the loss of your beloved
daughter, Denise.
She is now in heaven being embraced by God, free of pain and suffering.
May you and your family find comfort in knowing that God is with you.
I will keep you and all your family in my prayers.
We are part of your Puma family.
Silvia [aka 2PumaSisters]
Words are so inadequate at this time. Please know that many prayers are with you and your family.
With deepest condolences from a fellow PUMA.
I’m so sorry to hear about your loss Betty Jean. You, your family and your beloved daughter Denise are in my prayers. May you find comfort in your memories of your sweet girl.
I am so sorry, Betty Jean. You, your Denise and your Louisa have been in my thoughts and my heart for many months now. You all will remain in my heart for as long as I am here. I hope that she who has gone ahead and we who are left behind are able to find comfort with each other.
My prayers are with you and your family , Betty Jean. Your daughter’s spirit is with you always and still is in existence.
I pray that such a vivacious spirit as yours heals and soothes and find the strength during this time.
Betty, I am so sorry. You and your family are in our hearts and our prayers. Love you.
Betty,
My heartfelt prayers go out to you and your family. A mother’s loss is indescribable. I don’t know what to say except I lift up my love to you and may it provide you with the strength you need to get through this trial.
God Bless
Your family has endured so much. May God give you comfort that Mikie and Denise are together in bliss and peace, and help you through these difficult times. We are praying for Louisa too.
Betty Jean, I am so sorry about your Denise. Please know there are many people who care about you and your family. You have support. I’m sorry for all the pain you have gone through…
BettyJean,
A lovely tribute to your beautiful daughter. My condolences You all are in my prayers.
Betty Jean,
Once again, my heart breaks for you and your family. There are no words that can comfort a mother who has lost a child. Know this, Denise is in heaven. She is reunitied with Mikie and she is with God where there are no tears, no pain and no suffering. She can speak to him directly and intercede for Louisa. Please take comfort knowing there are so many of us who feel your pain and are praying you through yet another trial in your life. The Bible says that God never allows us to be tried more than we are able but with the trial will make a way for us. I believe He is with you for His word says, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” We have a saying in our home, “Don’t look down.” When Jesus called Peter out of the boat to walk on water, he was doing fine until he took his eyes off Jesus and looked down. That was when he started to sink. So my dear friend, as difficult as it is, keep your eyes on Jesus and Don’t look down.
God Bless.
B J,
Your angel, Dee, was blessed to be surrounded by her loving family. We hope your celebration of her life will bring good memories of such a beautiful, strong and loved daughter. You know she was a fighter-36 months is a long time to struggle with cancer. Her smile glowed for those who knew her. Now her star will shine upon all the world and bring light into the lives of others.
Fondly, Barbara Peacock
Thank you – I am comforted by these condolences and by her smile when she ledt but the emptiness overtkes me often. I miss her so – but now Mikie has his sister again.
May you always hold the Light of your daughter, Denise, close in your heart and be able to shed her Love onto the world around you each day.
May the Lady guide you and the Lord guard you.
Blessed Be!
Kerri C.
The world is going to miss this wonderful woman. The angels in heaven are going to love her. My heart goes out to all who knew, loved and cherished her.
My deepest sympathies.
Such a BEAUTIFUL poem for Denise.
May all the peace, joy and health come to you and your family during this difficult difficult time.
They are together once again, only in heaven.
My sincere condolences to you.
I’m so sorry for your loss. What a journey you and your family have been on. I wish you all peace and love.
I will remember you
My heartfelt condolences and prayers to you and your family. Your love will go with her forever, to guide her on her journey.
Betty Jean, I guess you are being considered for sainthood. Three children lost in one way or another. I cannot fathom the grief you must have. You were blessed to have had her in your life during her time on earth. I am praying for you and your family.
I am so sorry for your loss and hope your friends and family will provide the support you need at this time of sorrow. Bless you and your family.
I am thinking of you and your family at this time,May God Bless each and everyone of you,and my prayers are with you all.
Betty Jean,
My sincere sympathies are with you and your family in this time of sorrow. Know there are many of us out here who prayed for Denise and Louisa, and who continue to pray for you.
You are one of our true heroines, BJ, and I just know your daughter is with her brother as an angel–one of the brightest stars in heaven.
When I have gone through my battles with cancer, I kept a picture next to my bed of Jesus with several young children climbing up on his lap to get an embrace. I knew that even if the worse happened, I would be ‘going back home’ to get my hug, My personal belief is that Denise is now climbing up on His lap to get her hugs.
My condolences and continued prayers go out to all of the family. It is so very hard to lose those you love. Be kind to yourselves and wrap yourselves up in the love of others.
Dear Betty Jean,
I am so sorry about Dee Dee. Over the past year I have heard a lot about Dee Dee and Louisa through your post . It got to where I felt like I knew them.
May God be with you and your family through all the coming days.She will be remered for all her courage
during her illiness.
Inez Watson
I’m so terribly sorry for your loss. There are times when the knowledge that loved ones lost are in a better place seems like small comfort. You bravery during these months is a true inspiration to all of your readers, and your struggles for a better future for us all deserve the deepest gratitude. I think of you and your family often. You are all in our prayers.
BJ,
I’m sending my deepest sympathies and prayers to you and your family on the passing of your daughter, Denise. You have been in my thoughts and prayers many times in these past months. BJ, you are a wonderful and caring mother and grandmother. God will give you the strength to get through this ver y sad time and to remember the good times. Denise is now at peace with God and is no longer in pain.
I miss seeing you in Ship. If there is anything I can do for you, just call.
My love and support to you Betty Jean.
Betty Jean,
My deepest condolences to you and your family on the death of your beloved daughter. My heart goes out to you on your loss and I will keep you and your family in my prayers.
Denise is no longer in pain. She is at peace, happy, and surrounded by love in Heaven with our Lord, Jesus Christ.
Love,
Carol
(AlwaysforHillay)
My deepest sympathies to you and your family.
Love,
Christina
There is No Death
There is a plan far greater than the one you know;
There is a landscape broader than the one you see.
There is no haven where storm-tossed souls may go-
There is no death-we, immortality.
You call it death- this seeming endless sleep;
We call it birth- the soul at last set free.
‘Tis hampered not by time or space-you weep.
Why weep at death? ‘Tis immortality.
Farewell, dear voyageur- ‘twill not be long.
Your work is done- now may peace rest with thee.
Your kindly thoughts and deeds- they will live on.
This is not death- ‘tis immortality.
Farewell, dear voyageur- the river winds and turns;
The cadence of your song wafts near to me,
And now you know the thing that all men learn:
There is no death- there’s immortality.
Unknown
Betty Jean – for you.
Our lives are but fine weavings
That God and we prepare,
Each life becomes a fabric planned
And fashioned in His care.
We may not always see just how
The weavings intertwine,
But we must trust the Master’s hand
And follow His design.
For He can view the pattern
Upon the upper side,
While we must look from underneath
And trust in Him to guide…
Sometimes a strand of sorrow
Is added to His plan,
And though it’s difficult for us,
We still must understand
That it’s He who fills the shuttle,
It’s He who knows what’s best,
So we must weave in patience
And leave to Him the rest…
Not till the loom is silent
And the shuttles cease to fly
Shall God unroll the canvas
And explain the reason why–
The dark threads are as needed
In the Weaver’s skillful hand
As the threads of gold and silver
In the pattern He has planned.
With my deepest sympathy as you grieve your loss. May the expressions of all these sentiments, help to comfort you.
Peace be with you.
Jamie
Dear Betty Jean and Family,
Please accept my sincere heartfelt sympathy for your loss. Your Beloved Denise is no longer in pain and walks with Jesus. It is always so hard to put all thoughts in words but please know you are in my prayers.
May the peace of God that surpasses all understanding guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. (cfPhil4:7)
BettyJean I had just returned from Mass when I checked my email and found your notice. I immediately told my husband and the two of us cried for you. I’ve never met you but feel as if I have known you for years and that you are my good friend. Please stay strong.
My thoughts and prayers are with you today and for your daughter that is now in a more peaceful place.
Love,
Marcia
BJ, I’m so sorry for the loss of your beautiful, caring daughter. I am comforted in knowing that you were with her and able to say your goodbyes–and that she is no longer suffering. Thinking of you and your family and praying for you and your heart to be held in your community’s arms, and that you will find peace in time. Love, LB
I’m so sorry for the loss of your daughter. I have said a prayer for her journey. Please accept my condolences and my thoughts at this sad time. May she watch over you and protect you and Louise. Love Janet
God Speed Denise! My deepest sympathy to you and your family BJ. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Know….Denise is now peaceful and will watch over you.
Betty Jean,
I am so very sorry for your loss.
Denise,
I know you’ll be keeping your mother company and giving her help, now and in the months to come.
More condolences here from The Confluence:
I am so very sorry for your pain. If I might, a word of advice – let yourself grieve, while remembering the joy that she brought. Do not try to be the glue that holds everyone else upright, just look after yourself, and , for the time being, lean on those who love you for support rather than the other way about. Take care of yourself. The grief will never go away, but it will become bearable with time. Recognize that, and take care of yourself.
My thoughts are with you. Be safe.
Betty Jean ~ I wish I could be there to wrap my arms around you. I am very grateful to know you and to have been introduced to Denise (albeit through email). No one knows why one person with cancer survives and another does not. But I can say that its not a fun ride. We can either get through it and stay in our body or get through it to the other side. Either way its a disease to get through.
I’d like to share a poem ~
I’M FREE
Don’t grieve for me, for now I’m free. I’m following the path God laid for me. I took her hand when I heard her call. I turned my back and left it all. I could not stay another day to laugh, to love, to work or play. Tasks undone must stay that way. I found that peace at close of day. If my parting has left a void, then fill it with remembered joy. A frienship shared, a laugh, a kiss, ah yes these things I too will miss. Be not burdened with times of sorrow, I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow. My life’s been full. I’ve savored much. Good friends, good time, a loved one’s touch. Perhaps my time seemed all too brief, don’t lengthen it now with undue grief. Lift up your hearts and share with me. God wanted me now. She set me free.
Denise is FREE from the suffering that cancer can cause. She is FREE.
I love you BJ. Don’t heslitate to call me. Even if its just to cry.
Love,
Robin
Betty Jean,
My deepest condolences to you and every member of your family.
No words can make you feel better, but just know that you are in my thoughts and in my prayers. Denise will always be remembered.
With deepest sympathy
Yana Berlin
We in the ourprayer.org offer our deepest sympathy to you Betty Jean and your family on the death of Denise. We have been keeping her in prayer and will continue to pray for you, Louisa and the family. May God richly bless and comfort you at this very difficult and trying time.
God bless always
The ourprayer.org online prayer Group
My heartfelt condolences, and our prayers are with you and your family.
I have been reciting a special prayer for our dear sister Betty Jean’s Daughter since the sad news of her death…
Eternal rest Grant unto Her O’Lord,
May your prepetual Light Shine upon Her.
May Her Soul and the souls of all the faithfully Departed,
through the Mercy Of God Rest in Peace.
Amen
I will raiseyou up on the wings of Eagles
Bear you on the Breath of Dawn
Make you to shine like the Sun
He will hold you in the palm of His hands
my deepest sympathy for you Betty Jean and your family…in this difficult time….
Dear Betty Jean,
I’m not sure if you remember me – but we taught together for awhile at WASHS – and MaryLee Gehman has kept be abreast of what’s been going on in your life. I just cannot tell you how saddened I was to hear of the loss of your daughter – especially after losing a son. There just aren’t adequate words. Please know that you have been remembered so fondly, and that many prayers have been, and will be said, on your behalf. My very deepest sympathies go out to you and your family.
Maggie Brezler Yoder
BJ –
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Maggie,
I certainly do remember you and i do so fondly. I thank you for your condolences and for your prayers. At this time in my life- it is so comforting to know that there are people out there who care about my daughter and are willing to send condolences so that forever there is a record for all the world to see that my Denise was here and that she mattered!
Thank you so much! God bless you for reaching out!
Dear dear friends – Ii am overwhelmed !
I want you all to know that I hope to write each and every one of you a personal note when I get my head together.
I can never tell you how much all these messages mean to me personally but even more than that what they mean to me for my Denise.
In my mind we are putting her in history by writing for her here! I never want my baby forgotten- I am selfish – you see – she was my best friend – we grew up together – I had Denise at 15 – we were friends too.
We were the wind beneath each others wings! Thank you for helping me honor my best friend and beloved daughter.
You have no idea who I am and I have no idea who you are but I will fly with you in honor of your Daughter.
I am deeply saddened for your loss. But heaven is now a better place and someday we will all meet there. And we will see her loving smile again.
God Bless You…
Fred Patterson
Windsor, Vermont
Betty Jean:
Your daughters were very lucky to have had you as a role model, a friend, and a loving mother. It is inconceivable to me that your family has had to undergo such terrible suffering, but you have given your children the best gift there is love that is deeper than saying or thinking.
I am so sorry that you have had to endure so much pain and suffering. Strong as you are, it is still so much to bear. Many blessings.
cats
Betty Jean, I am so sorry for your loss. Although I only met you one time, I consider you a friend . My brother died in March 1996. That Fall I went to view the AIDS quilt and I have thought often of what I read on one of the quilts. “I thought I saw you today, but it was just the sun in my eyes , again.” My prayers to you and your family. All my love, Nancy Smouse.
My dear friend, I am so sorry for your loss. It is always said that parents never want to see a child precede you in death, let alone two. My thoughts and prayers are with you and yours. You and your family were in my heart today while I was protesting in Topeka. KS, our capitol. I knew in my heart you would be happy I was celebrating DeeDee’s life in my own way.
Sorry to hear of your loss. Prayers rising. Stand fast and stand strong.
Bettyjean, I am Mary’s ( muffin_40) sister.. And she has kept me in touch with you & your family. I am sorry for your loss… She must have been a wonderful daughter & friend..with all the pouring out you have received. You & your family are in our prayers at this time. Diane Suchala Mullins
I am presenting you with my feelings of deepest sympathy and condolences, Betty Jean. I would like to add that nobody really disappears, Loved Ones just go away for some time. You will meet again. We all do.
Love,
Helen
Deepest sympathy and condolences to you and your family during this difficult time. It was not a suprise to read what a wonderful and giving family you have, and we all appreciate everything you all have done to make this world a better place. Those memories live on forever.
Betty You are a very strong woman, Surrounded by all this Love you will get through this. Remember we are ALL here for you night or day! We all Love you girl!
Mary
Bettyjean & Richard,
We were very saddened to hear of your loss. We know how hard it has been for you over the years. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you and your entire family.
Tom & Gay Burnhisel
I’m so sorry to hear of your loss:( I wish you and your family the very best in getting through this rough time. My prayers are with you.
I’m so sorry for your loss Bettyjean. Please accept my heartfelt condolences and sympathy at this difficult time.
It must be gratifying to see so many supportive and sympathetic responses on this site. I’m sure Denise was just as special as her mom…
Your notice regarding Denise, deeply saddened me. The grief I feel for you and your family’s loss, is lightened only by the fact that you were able to say goodbye and express your love to each other. Denise’s life has touched all of us, and we will always remember her.
I know how much you are hurting and missing Denise and how terribly unfair all this has been for you but try to remember how much Denise’s suffering must have been eased by having the loving arms of her mother to hold her in the end.
I am sure she is holding you now and using the arms of your friends to comfort you and their hands to lighten your load. We are here.
Psalm 34:18
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit
You are in my thoughts and know you have many that will continue to stand beside you and know you will continue to fight for what is right.
I mourn the loss of your beautiful daughter and the future daughters that have yet to face injustice that you and your family have.
Never give up…..never surrender!
Very sad for you. You work so earnestly for all of us. We are thinking of you and your family.
Betty Jean,
My thoughts and my prayers are with you today and every day. Sorry about the loss of your beautiful daughter. May she sing with angels.
Lynette
Betty Jean,
Sorry about the loss of your beautiful daughter. May she sing with angels and dance with the stars.
Lynette
Betty Jean,
Denise is at peace now, she will be your strength when you are weak. She will always be the wind beneath your wings. She will walk beside you now until you are together again. She is with her brother and you will never be alone knowing they are always with you.
Love,
Juliet
Hi BJ..
my deepest sympathy goes out to you and your entire family..how great it was for you to be able to say goodbye.. Denise will always be with you, giving you strength when you need it..
Know i will keep you in all in Prayer..
Gods Blessings to you
Linni
BettyJean,
My heart is breaking for you and your family. You’ve been through so much that it can be only a small comfort at this point that she’s now in a place where her health is restored and the pain has been taken away and now she can watch over you and Louisa. I pray for your strength as each of you face each new day and attempt to redefine “normal”. Don’t let anyone tell you how you should feel and how long you should feel it. I love you and am thinking of you always.
&rea
Betty Jean,
Denise was such a beautiful, caring person, she is clearly with the angels.
I thought of you and your daughters every day for the last few months even when I don’t say anything. I believe what you and Denise wrote about Tommy, I believe you were right about Favreau and I believe you are right when you say we must never blame the victim.
I pray for you and your family.
Alicia
I was filled with horror when I read your story in the Bergen Record. My heart goes out to you and your family.
When you feel more ready, you may want to contact my very good friend, Arlene Rich, who is a psychic medium. She has often connected me with my first husband who passed away many years ago, which I’ve found to be of great comfort.
I’m not a crazy person, but rather a legitimate businesswoman who is just trying to help in a small way. Feel free to contact me with any questions or view her website: http://www.TheSpiritualAwakening.com for more info.
Sincerely, Camille
Betty Jean……Words can not express the sorrow we are feeling for you and your family. When you finally return home and are feeling up to it, please call us. Not sure how much a person can take but you have had your share of hardship. The loss of your beautiful soul mate/daughter DeeDee with beautiful Louisa’s life in the balance. Keep up the fight! You are stronger than I am. We miss you sweetie. All the home-town Hillary women are with you in spirit and pulling for Louisa. Try to get some rest. You are a light in my life.
Love, Bonnie & her Mom
My heart goes out to you at this most painful of times.
Wishing you a lessening of pain and continued strength and a flood of happy memories.
Maria
Betty Jean,
You are in my prayers and very close to my heart.
BJ & family—–we are so VERY SORRY for the loss of your daughter. you all will bein our thoughts and prayers. love, Brenda, Susan, Donna, Wayne, Dave Mom Marie,—–James, Angell, Smith, Skerritt and Heath families
BJ,
No one should have to go the pain of losing a child, let alone two. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Your daughter is now at peace, no more pain, no more suffering, but at rest, comfort and warmth. You only had her a short time and it was time for her to go to heaven.
Your are such a strong person, full of life, love and compassion, let her live that in you. I never met your daughter, but, if she was anything like you, she was a fabulous and wonderful person. She will always be with you and no one can take that from you. You must go forward now, in the face of sorrow, she would want that and no doubt looks back with love and caring for the most important person in her life…..a mother who loved her unconditionally.
–susan and girls
A beautiful woman& great Mom & daughter & sister & friend! She is surely missed!
She loved you very much!
I will never forget our trips to Sandy Hook!