Paulmert, Lydia

One word. If we all had one word left to describe my mom Lydia, what would it be? I can think of many. Strong. Caring. Determined.  Courageous. Resourceful. I always go back to ...resilient.  This was her true and true. She taught me lots from day one. Taught me to be the person I am today and taught me not to be the person I didn't want to be. She taught me to fight, to survive and to be proud. And I was proud. I was proud of how head strong she was. Proud of the amount of courage she showed. Proud of what she accomplished. She was brave when she didn’t need to be. Pound for pound simply the toughest person I ever met. I was proud of how hardworking she was. I was very proud of the journey she was on and battle she waged so gallantly. On Aug 10 that journey ended. The final bell rang, and the fight was seemingly over.   But make no mistake she didn’t lose this fight. She won. She beat the fight that was almost unwinnable. The fight tapped out, not her. Sick of her stubbornness and her refusal to give in, it was the fight that gave up. So tough, so brave, so resilient. I have often said there are only 2 people in this entire world I am afraid of and one was my mother on a bad day! I looked back and pulled out some good memories and it wasn’t hard, but I always come back to this.... Her simple strength was in the day to day living. The thankless duties. The unforgiving roles. The grilled cheese sandwiches cut in perfect symmetrical shapes. The French toast fried just right on each side. The fact no matter what I did, she was there. Any hole I dug she was there with boots on to help dig me out. Thick or thin, good times or rough, she was always there. Always.  I never met someone who loved her grandkids (and great grandkids Mr. C!) more than her. She was so very proud of them in every way. She wanted nothing more than for them to grow up healthy, happy and fulfilled. She shared a special bond with them each in her own way. I can attest she loved everyone of them to the fullest. My daughter Ellie spent a couple of days with her last summer cooking, doing crafts, watching movies, and just hanging out. When Ellie went back to school in September, one of her summer highlights she expressed was spending time with Nanny. She never got to meet my son Charlie in person who was born last year. Between sickness and pandemics, timing was never right. We had planned on surprising her in 2 weeks with a special visit so they could meet. I would give anything for 2 more weeks, just 2 more weeks. Although they weren't able to meet in person, Charlie will grow up knowing that his Nanny was a fighter. Tough as nails. A true warrior. Better suited for some ancient battlefield defending her people and land.  He will grow up knowing she never gave up. It was never an option. There are lighthearted moments as well, like the 14 year long loving grudge she held against my dog for eating her tasty sausage on bun she left on the counter when she was puppy. Their meetings after that was always opened up with “there’s the dog that ate my sausage " ......  Her uneasy journey has come to an end. The pain finally at rest now. She can settle. She can breathe now. Just breathe. For whatever lies ahead I know she will conquer like so many times before. There is simply no other option.  She will survive, that’s a guarantee. I can only imagine her own words and lines of " when I get to heaven, I'll do this "....... Along her way she had help as well. I am forever grateful to those who sacrificed undoubtedly for her. Her sister Theresa who was her support person when I couldn’t. Her sister Linda who watched out for her when I didn’t. Her granddaughter Ashley for befriending her when I struggled to find the time. She had a very special place in her heart for those who helped her the most.  We all miss and will always miss. 

 " No more darkness, no more night,

Now I am so happy no sorrow in sight " 

This journey over. The battle won.  The lights dim now.  Nothing more needed. 

Love your son

 Bradley 

 

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6 Condolences

  1. Dear Lydia my cousin, You will always remain special in my heart. Yesterday being your birthday we became the same age. I recall good times In Azilda as kids. You are in God`s hands now.

    By: Kenneth Girard
    August 17, 2020
  2. To My Beloved Sister
    You departed on our planned road trip and left me behind. I am truly crushed. My heart is broken in a million pieces. Please save me a seat!! Until we meet again there will always be a special place in my broken heart for you. I will always love you. Your little Sis

    Love Forever
    Linda

    By: LINDA mERCIRE
    August 15, 2020
  3. Warrior would be the word I use to describe your mother. She will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

    By: Mercier
    August 15, 2020
  4. Your Mother was a strong person and a good friend. She will be missed by many.

    By: Patricia Byrnes
    August 13, 2020
  5. What a beautiful obit. God Bless You Bradley.

    By: Drinda
    August 13, 2020
  6. We wish you peace and comfort as you grief your loss and please accept our deepest condolences.

    By: Lorraine Stacey
    August 13, 2020

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