Friday, February 18, 2011

Carol George, 1940-2011

Niskayuna – Carol George, 71, passed away peacefully on her birthday February 17, 2011  in her home with her family and pets;  her long courageous battle with cancer is now over.

Miriam's baptism, April of 2010
Carol moved to Schenectady as a newlywed in June of 1962.  After a brief nursing career, she was devoted to raising her two children.  She performed volunteer work for schools as her children were growing up and then for various community organizations; the most rewarding being her fifteen year involvement with the patrons and members of the Schenectady Civic Players.  Carol was a loving and caring person who enjoyed reading, gardening, and traveling.  In her last days, she asked her beloved son, "How will I know I'm dead?" to which he replied, "When your farts smell like roses."  She deduced that she must therefore still be alive.  Her sense of humor was in tact until the end! 


Carol and Ray in Ogunquit, Maine in 2008

Carol is survived by her husband Raymond, son Tony George of Frederick, Maryland, daughter Suzanne George Gonsalves of Taunton, Massachusetts, and precious granddaughter Miriam Rose.

An Orthodox ceremony for the separation of the soul from the body was performed at her bedside by her beloved priest, Father Dennis Nagi, the day of her death.  Following the service, in a final act of total self-giving love, Carol donated her body for research via the Anatomical Gift Program at Albany Medical College.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Forty Day Memorial service following the liturgy on March 27, 2011, at St. Sophia church on

440 Whitehall Road
, in Albany.  The memorial portion of the worship will begin between .  Family will receive mourners in the church hall following the service.

Carol and Miriam in 2010


September 2009
Remembrances may be made the through Hans Funeral Home.

Donations may be made to either, the American Cancer Society,
260 Osborne Road, Albany, NY 12211
; or the Schenectady Civic Players,
PO Box 927, Schenectady, NY 12301
.

Tuesday, February 15, 2011

Deathbed Conversion

My mother is nearing the end of her life.  To be honest, we are all surprised that she's still with us.  She's nearing her end, and, a few days ago, she decided that she would not put off her spiritual life any more. 

She was Chrismated into the Eastern Orthodox Church.  I was floored.  This woman, who had been an atheist, was now embracing Christ.  This followed other severe changes for the good.  In the past few years she's embraced The Culture of Life, released pride and prejudice, showered forgiveness and asked for it too.  Her soul is a glistening diamond now, ready for Heaven.  I am just so floored by this transformation, I cannot tell you. 

When Carol George dies,she will be in a state of complete, spiritual health, cured of all ailments that really matter. 

God be with her always.  Mom, I'm looking forward to your intercessions.  Thank you for forgiving my lack of faith in you.  You are so dear.  I will miss you.