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Letters from Betty Ciccone to Art Mahony from the late 1980s. Betty was suffering the effects of cancer and would pass away in 1988. She was living in Hunterdon County in Jersey to be close her daughters and their families. I had the opportunity to visit with her several times during that time. They were some of the most meaningful and fulfilling discussions ever, for me. I learned a great deal about my grandparents, cousins, Uncle Jada, and my dad. I also learned how to face life’s ultimate challenge with grace, humor, and dignity. (Lessons I learned once again when my dad, her brother, passed away 20 years later.) After a visit in which Betty had a hard time communicating and was clearly in pain, I got the call that the end was near and she was no longer taking visits. Ironically, during that last visit she continued to address me as Raymund and seemed to believe she was speaking to her brother. My dad was appreciative that I took the time to see her in the last few years of her life: but I benefited and enjoyed every second of my time with her. I just hope that I have the same strength and character displayed by my Aunt Betty.

One afternoon Betty and I started a conversation that went on for a couple hours. I noticed the time and mentioned I had to head home as Jan had dinner planned I might be late. Betty gave me this “kitchen pass” to give to Jan to keep me out of trouble.