A Very Sweet Lady

This is Mercedes.  Mercedes was 88 years old when she passed away today, I believe from natural causes.  She was Francia, Arjedi, and Enma's grandma.  This picture was taken early this year when Jessica, Will's sister, was giving her her first manicure.  It was really sweet.  Mercedes made an impact on everyone she met.  Several different doctors that have come through have talked about her as their favorite patient of the day.  She was always a joy to be around and will definitely be missed by her family and the community.  I am blessed to have known her. 
This is Enma and Arjedi.  Just a couple of her many grandchildren.

Tonight I went to their house to make sure the family was doing okay and was once again confronted with the mourning traditions of Hondurans.  Grandma Mercedes was laid out on the couch in the front room surrounded by candles while they waited for someone to arrive with the coffin.  She won't be embalmed but the family and friends will stay up all night remembering her life and comforting each other then she will be buried early tomorrow.  They confront death head on and move on but it is often a little overwhelming to me.  Tonight though was just a special time with their family.