Dolores Maria Somma

Mom's devotion to the Blessed Mother was very strong. It all began at age two when my grandmother prayed for her to be healed of Polio. "If Dolores is not going to be whole," she prayed, "please take her." Arriving at the hospital the next morning she found Little Dolores jumping up and down on the bed, fully recovered. Coincidentally, that was the day of The Assumption, August 15, 1930.

Mom was someone who was sensitive to other's feelings, especially the underdog. She was unafraid to jump in to resolve conflicts. At times, she was the "Dutch Uncle," honestly saying what one needed to hear. At other times, she would seek, find, and advocate for a compromise. Proverbs 31:8-9 comes to mind: "speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, ensure justice for those being crushed. Yes, speak up for the poor and helpless and see that they get justice." She created peace by encouraging forgiveness and unity.

Mom loved her children dearly and when she lost her seventeen-year-old son her faith sustained her through devastating grief. She often spoke of the snowy day when the doorbell rang, and a scroll mysteriously appeared which read "Heaven Holds the Greatest Happiness."

When Dad came down with Parkinson's Disease, she devotedly took care of him for over 10 years. After he died, she joined a support group and became a devoted consolation to her newfound friends. She clocked many hours volunteering at a nursing home, feeding patients and was affectionately referred to as "Mom" while working at the elementary school.

When we would seek her advice during trying times, she would tell us to leave it in God's hands and was always our faithful advocate and prayer warrior.

A Depression baby, she wasted nothing and was an excellent cook and baker. She enjoyed sewing, crocheting and embroidery, and her oil paintings were displayed at the local library. Known for her passion for piano, Mom enjoyed playing each evening. Those who heard her play were awestruck to learn she was self-taught as a young child. She loved and kept a beautiful home and was very generous with charitable organizations close to her heart. 

Her angelic smile and vibrant spirit will be missed but will forever remain in our hearts.