My beloved sister, Audrey Ann Christian Howard July 18, 1961 - September 28, 2012

My sister, Audrey and I did not always get along when we were growing up, like most siblings, but she was very protective of me, our sister Helen and brother Matt.  I used to get bullied in school a lot, mainly because I was so small and quiet.  I remember once when I was in 4th grade and we were waiting at the bus stop to go to school.  This big guy, much bigger than Audrey, kept saying mean things to me, and pulling my hair.  Audrey told him to leave me alone, but he wouldn't.  She got right up in his face with the meanest look she could muster and told him again, "leave her alone!"  He wasn't fazed at all.  He pulled my hair again and she punched him square in the face and flattened him!!!  My hero!!!  You know, that guy never bothered me again.

When our father passed away, my sister held it together for me, I was completely shattered.  She let me cry on her shoulder many times and helped me get through the pain.  It was the same when our mother, then our grandmother passed.  She kept telling me that they were in a better place and that they were waiting for us.  It's funny, I'd forgotten that until now.  I said the same thing to Matt on Friday.

Audrey, I will miss you so much.  You are a big part of who I am.  Thank you for being there for me whenever I needed a big sister.  I know you are no longer suffering.  I know you are with Mom, Dad, and Grandma.  Give them a big hug for me.  Tell them I'll be there one of these day.  Only God knows when.
I love you, Sis.