This is my Aunt Bernice. She passed away somewhat recently, and this photo was taken the last time I saw her, at the Pickering Family Reunion in Ruston, LA last summer. It was the only time Stacy got to meet her, which I think was neat. My dad was telling me how Bernice was always so sweet, even when he was a kid.

She was living in an assisted living place, where this was taken. It was actually quite nice, and she seemed to like it. My dad said she passed away quite peacefully: she was working out on one of those reclining stationary bikes and her heart just gave out. Aside from going in your sleep, I don’t know if there’s a much better way to leave this earth.