Remembering Allyson Smith: Portland Day Three

Saturday we all gathered at the local LDS church for a service to remember Allyson. It was really a very lovely collection of stories from various parts of her life. Her sister, Ellen, did a wonderful eulogy which provided us with glimpses into her childhood. Ben delivered a very emptional eulogy which moved everyone in the room, particularly when his sister, Mandi, and brother, Danny, joined him. There was beautiful music and Ally's other sister also said a few kinds words.

But the one speaker who moved me the most was David, one of their home teachers. Over the one year period of time in which Ally and Carey had lived in Portland, they had a profound impact on the lives of David and his wife. David really helped us remember all the wonderul and good things about Ally that were often clouded by the challenging relationships we had with her.

It was a really beautiful service. We will all miss Allyson dearly.

Afterward, we all gathered for lunch at the church. Below are some pictures we took, with all the family finally together in one place.

Ben's Grandma Sharon in the red jacket, with her husband West and the kids from the L (Scott, Carey, Tracey, Robin, Randy, Lisa, and Jeff)

Ben's Grandpa David with the kids.

Carey with all his kids, his children-in-law and 7 of his 8 grandkids! Little Ben we missed you!
The adults L to R: Ryan, Mandi, Ben, Jill, Dan, and Kristina

And with the grandkids!

L to R: Mady (4), Chloe (6), Mason (6 mos), Aby (21 months), Cadence (21 months), Reiley (3), Nachelle (9)

My favorite picture (but I am biased)! She's gonna be a great big sister!