Monday, August 5, 2024
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Jon’s tribute to Lee
Lee’s wit and wisdom are known to us all. To say what I want to say about Lee, I need to tell you a little about myself. I am insecure! When Lee and I first met, I felt intimidated because she was obviously extremely intelligent and insightful, and decent in an old-fashioned way that I don’t know how to describe. I was worried that I might not be up to her standards. But I quickly found out that I did not need to be afraid. In addition to her immense wit and intelligence, Lee was gentle and welcoming. She made me feel welcomed and accepted into the Smith family.
Not so long ago I was with Lee at the kitchen table at 20 Oak St. I had often been with her in the kitchen with other people, but this time I had a chance to be alone with her. This was at a time Lee was experiencing memory loss. I opened up to her about feeling bad about not doing enough for my disabled sister, who had passed away recently. Lee fiercely supported the way I had handled the situation, saying that I had done the best I could have. My mom was long gone, but at this moment I felt that right or wrong, I had a mother’s support again.
I will miss Lee Bessemer Smith for her wit, decency, her fascinating descriptions of a heroic past era, and her motherly kindness.
