Conversation with Momma

Love Them Now

On December 28, 2014 my wonderful mother, Clarabelle Gerushia Wrencher went home to be with the Lord. In July – August 2017, three sisters, Geneva, Marie, and Monica, joined my mom in heaven. Last year 2019, my oldest brother James took his place alongside them. Sometimes, death is expected; other times not. I pray we show love to everyone while they’re still here. We can’t make it up when they’re gone.

When my mom passed, my siblings asked me to be the spokesperson at her going home ceremony. As I started jotting down things to say, it was like the Holy Spirit comforted me and had prepared me in advance, with the strength I needed, and the words to say. These are the thoughts we used to send our mother to heaven, and rest in the arms of Jesus.

Conversation with Momma

Momma, those you left behind wanted to let you know that they really appreciate the positive impact you had in their lives. Some spoke it directly, while others took to FaceBook. There are far too many to share today, but here are a few we think reflect the spirit you left behind.

Dad talked about how smart and hardworking you were. He said you did more for us than he ever did; walking the railroad tracks in Robbins to the mines; working the lines at the chicken plant; and at times, having multiple jobs to make sure your children were provided for, and had their opportunities; this included ironing shirts for prominent businessmen so well, folks thought they were done by the cleaners. Dad put the roof over our head, but you filled it with love.

You were described as hardworking, dedicated, loved God, loved people, raised her children right.

Some said they just couldn’t stand to see you leave, while a great niece from Boston said she gained an angel to watch over her and her baby boy.

One commented that through the pain, she knows heaven received an angel, deserving of her wings.
Many called you the rock of the family.

Another used the Word, as you would have, to comfort us; The Lord is close to the broken hearted; He rescues those whose spirit is crushed.

One felt you were airlifted 1^st class, into heaven.

And a favorite; God looked around His garden, and found an empty space; then looked down on earth and saw your tired face; He hugged you momma, and lifted you up to rest; His garden must be beautiful, cause He only takes the best.

Though you didn’t drive, we remember you introducing us to our first automobiles; to get you around; run errands; for school; doctor’s appointments; and for covering when we were so bad we were afraid to come inside the house at night—mainly me.

We remember when we messed up and asked you what we did wrong; you would reply “You know what you did!”

When we called you Goop, it was because we liked all our interactions with you; even if it got us whipped.

We have reflected on a lot of pictures mom; I mean a lot; and we know how much you loved flowers.

Thanks for being an inspiration; thanks for being a teacher; thanks for being humble; thanks for showing us, how to live for God.

Ben sang your song momma; and these girls look good in your hats; now your loved ones say back to you, “Well bless your heart,” momma, Grandma Rushie.

We really miss you, and I still wish that phone call had been the wrong number; but we know God doesn’t make mistakes.

As the rock you laid the foundation; and you showed us the path; so for all who love and miss you; tell everyone hello, and we’ll see you when we get there.