I would like to start by extending my gratitude to all of those who have paid mind, homage, and prayer regarding the loss of Mary Ball Kennedy . I know Mary is looking down and is proud of each and everyone of you. She's always told us, "don't be sad, be happy, rejoice. I'm ready to enter the most beautiful, peaceful place right there with my family". She is out of pain and stress and has now entered an eternity of peace and joy, alongside her beloved family walking the streets of gold.

Throughout Mary's life, and all of ours, she has been the manifestation of love. She's remembered for various roles such as, Mom, sister, grandma, wife, aunt, cousin, and great friend. It is within this context I shall speak from my perspective as a grandson, and portray her greatness.
As many of you know, the deep, elaborate, vastness of Mary's character is quite hard to describe. If I could use one word to describe Mary, it would be love. Everyone that was privileged enough to have a bond with her should know, and accredit her for teaching us how to love. She was kind, and gentle; she would interpret your pain as her own and bear your burdens right alongside of you, fighting against it together. It is as if a hurricane can be going on all around you, not knowing what to do, you're lost. Then emerges the eye of the storm, pure serenity and peace amidst the chaos. That is what Mary undoubtedly provided to us. Her sweet voice could rejuvenate you even at your lowest times. All those long hugs which we thought were too long, now in hindsight, we wish were so much longer. Our kooky ol' grandma always had the best interest for her babies, even if we couldn't understand it at the time, we all know now. Countless lessons to reflect on will all make us, and be part of who we are for the rest of our lives. Our hearts have been mended to the most adequate degree thanks to Mary. Her intelligence is not to be undermined even in the slightest either. She was always aware of what was going on, and always had divergent, effective ways of handling a situation.

There was no getting away with something with grandma because you already knew, she knows. Her guidance was divine in a sense due to the fact it was always the best route. It may seem like the path not taken, but it was always paved by her great wisdom. Along with great wisdom came great strength. No matter how foul she felt, she always seemed to drive through the pain to do whatever she wanted, and needed to attain. She could be hurting so bad but you know she'll be up making grandpa a fried egg and toast because she "can do it herself". Such an obedient, loving, charismatic wife. Something all the ladies can learn from. The labyrinth of lessons well learned should now be reflected on and applied to our lives. Thank you Grandma.

Mary enjoyed many things throughout life whether it be reading, shopping, relaxing, watching tv, or going out and having fun, but most importantly she loved having a conversation with her loved ones. She would talk your ear off if you'd let her. She'd somehow always find a stranger in the grocery store and start chatting it up about anything, as we're thinking come on grandma. At times, she could seem stubborn but that's because "Grandma always knows best". All the laughs, cries, disagreements, and rambling truly made her the happiest. That, and most definitely animals. Grandma had some weird things about her like I swear she was some kind of animal whisperer. I ain't never seen anybody befriend a wild bird until come outside and she's sitting out on the porch talking to a bird right under her legs.Not to mention her frog Jimmy who would come around to chat it up with her. She even had a 4 foot tall, one legged, yes, one legged sandhill crane named Hoppy who lived out back of the house in which she petted and fed. She was so gentle and loving with animals. Always gave them a second chance and loved them like no one has. Whether it be Buddy the one eyed disabled pekingese, or Lexi the 13 year old matted cat, she didn't discriminate, she loved them with all she had. I know she'll be heavens veterinarian. Grandma held a spiritual connection with nature.
She could grow a leaf into a sprawling tree. She'd be up in that Walmart clearance plant isle picking out a dead plant talking about "it's just lil' thirsty". Little did we know, two weeks later she'd have that crispy plant looking like it belonged in the Garden of Eden. She was so immersed in nature and reflected off the teaching of Saint Fransis. When she wasn't occupied with those things, she'd be all up in politics. Oh boy, you know if she had that tablet in her hand, on the porch, you're about to get the whole spiel on "that damn Nancy Pelosi". She's as american as fried food, NASCAR, Kid Rock, a glass of sweet tea, and an AR-15. Always reminding us to vote, vote, vote. She was such a funny woman, you could always depend on her for a good laugh. She lived quite the happy life, never had to worry about anything. Her and her husband, my grandpa, Michael were truly a match made in heaven. What one lacked the other made up for, and it truly was balance. They loved each other so deeply, and truly lived for one another. It was with the utmost love and due diligence that they always took care of each other. Their love was so unique and elaborate. Due to their connection they never had to worry, and due to that her life was great. She lived a long, happy life and was ready to reach those golden gates. Her spiritual life was unfathomable, and she had such a deep rooted connection with God. We all know where she's going without a question in our mind. Heaven has gained quite the angel. Memories like these will carry us for life, and we will always remember Mary for all the great times.

In closing, Mary Kennedy has made an everlasting impact on all the people who were privileged enough to form a bond with her. We will never forget her love. Our hearts and minds have all been transformed into an elevated point due to her. These memories have become part of us, our pain has become part of us, and your love has become part of us. We will miss you forever. Grandma, your image will live on through me. You have been a mother to me and all those years have made me as a man. I love you forever grandma, and until we meet again this is goodbye.

-Carson Kennedy