My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. May you find comfort in your memories. God’s blessings and deepest sympathy,

Sandi Marino

I remember Mrs. Farmer so well and just found out about her passing this morning. You have my condolences and I would have been there this afternoon if I were able to attend. Mrs. Farmer was such a lovely lady and I enjoyed talking with her, giving her rides to and from St. Joe’s and her sense of humor was awesome. She so enjoyed chatting with her friend, Roey Steurer, who was also one of my dearest “mom” friends, I’m sure they’ll have a lot of catching up to do !! You have my sympathy and again, I’m sorry I won’t be able to be there to say hello in person. Also, want you to know that Patty Poertner Genuario is in Florida at this time, or she would certainly be there as well.

Connie, my deepest sympathies during this most difficult time. May God bless and keep you and may your mom rest in peace.

Harbor View from 1959-1974 and visits to my folks after we moved to Weston. Mrs Farmer was just a lovely person . Always walking, always smiling and always positive about everything.A truly nice person who will be rewarded for her efforts forever.
JIm & Kathy Worth 111

I had the pleasure of knowing LaVinia over the past year as a volunteer at Notre Dame Convalescent Home. I chose to volunteer at NDCH as my grandparents had both been residents there years ago. I took a shine to LaVinia my very first day of volunteering. LaVinia would always call me an angel when we spent time together. Now LaVinia is my angel. I miss her dearly. My warmest condolences to her family.

I’m so sorry for your loss. Your Mother/Grandmother was an interesting person who made me laugh whenever I spoke with her. She was Harbor View’s own “bag lady” for she was always carting packages from home to the store or to church. She loved to walk and she loved the outdoors, and she so appreciated God’s gifts. I had the best conversations with her when she would accept a ride. She was bright and very wise, and was not afraid to share her opinions. On a few occasions, she babysat for my son, Aaron, who is now 35. May fond memories of her comfort you at this time.

Connie,
My most heartfelt sympathies to you on the loss of your beloved mother. Please know that you are in my prayers and I ask the lord to give you strength and peace during this most difficult time. She is not gone for she will live forever in your heart.

I have so many fabulous memories of your Mom! Growing up in HV, Moms looked out for every kid not just her own and your Mom certainly looked out for all of us. She was a wonderful woman with a ready smile, laughter, a strong sense of values and faith. Love and kindness simply emanated from her. I can’t think of Harbor View and not think of your Mother. She was a central Mom figure in my growing up years and an inspiring person.

I do remember a teen or preteen night where we all piled into the VW Bus as Ed said Not to worry because when she’s awake, his Mom could hear a pin drop but when she’s asleep nothing, no matter how loud the noise. and she was asleep.. Yeah, was just a few minutes later that Mrs. Farmer was banging on the VW Bus windows and we were all in big trouble. I smile just remembering and Elaine Horelick and I still chuckle over that one.

Disabled with lyme, I can’t join you in person to celebrate her life. Please know I am thinking about all of you and holding you in my heart and thoughts. Your Mom was a terrific person!!!
Love,
Ginny

Just back from Florida and sending my heartfelt sympathy to all of the family. I adored Mrs. Farmer and have many fond memories of our chats during a car ride, walk around the island or when I was out on my bike. She always asked after my family and was a very positive, loving and devout woman. She was a Harbor View treasure! May she rest in peace.

Amelia Mitchell (Mom) is 92 now so I have some concern with telling her about LaVinia’s passing on. She got VERY upset when a younger sisiter (Leila) died. LaVinia passing on makes Amelia the senior family member now, a status she did not want to ever happen. But, we can’t stop the clock.

Connie’s Letter to the Family is well written and I might let Mom read it herself as it so very touching. It might help to soften the emotional blow she will have.

I personally did not know LaVinia very well as I met her only one time that I recall. Our family had just returned to the US from being stationed in Germany and I was about 15. I do remember thinking how she really was so very nice, and then, like any kid, ran off to play. I know her best by the stories that Mom would tell from time to time. If I may use a phrase that fits my one contact with her nicely. “Memory is not what the heart desires”.

There is one favorite thought that has helped us when a loved one passed on that I’d like to share. It is a favorite of Mom’s as well…

Near shady wall a rose once grew,
Budded and blossomed in God’s free light,
Watered and fed by the morning dew,
Shedding its sweetness day and night.

As it grew and blossomed fair and tall,
Slowly rising to loftier height,
It came to a crevice in the wall
Through which there shone a beam of light.

Onward it crept with added strength
With never a thought of fear or pride,
It followed the light through the crevice’s length
And unfolded itself on the other side.

The light, the dew, the broadening view
Were found the same as they were before,
And it lost itself in beauties new,
Breathing its fragrance more and more.

Shall claim of death cause us to grieve
And make our courage faint and fall?
Nay! Let us faith and hope receive–
The rose still grows beyond the wall,

Scattering fragrance far and wide
Just as it did in days of yore,
Just as it did on the other side,
Just as it will forevermore.