My Mom, Sybill Reed
May 17, 1932 – July 4, 2023
It was hard to lose my mom yesterday, harder than even I imagined it would be. I lost my dad when I was very young so my mom was my rock. Mom was my supporter, my friend, my anchor when I needed to rest in a port, and my sails when I caught the wind.
Part of the reason I have been brief on my posts over the last several months was because I went home to Virginia to help with her transition from living at home independently to living in a hospice facility. Her cancer had spread and she needed more care than she could get at home.
My mom had lived in her apartment for 25 years and there was a lot for me to clear out, disperse to family members, and to my mom’s friends. I had my mom’s power of attorney and I was also handling her legal affairs. While I was in Virginia I went to the facility where my mom was every day. I’m so glad for every minute I was able to spend with her. By the time I left Virginia my mom was fading and it was still very hard to leave.
To say goodbye to the woman who I love with all my heart was one of the hardest things I have had to do in my life.
My Mom at 90 years of age, photo taken in March 2023
My mom might have left her body but she will always be with me, in my heart, and every time I am out in field surrounded by nature. She will be in the wind, the warmth of the sun, the songs of the birds, and scent of the earth.
Yes. My sons, their families and I, along with my niece Kristal, her daughter Wren, and the multitude of friends my mom made over the years she walked this earth will miss her but her suffering has come to an end and we are all grateful for that.
I will always love you, Mom. Love you to the moon and back.
Mia
What a poignant and beautiful tribute to your Mom. I’m sorry for your loss…but I am convinced she is still riding shotgun right next to you. She will always be there. Take care Mia.
As someone who doesn’t know you directly Mia, but who has been following your photo blog for a few years now, I feel as if I do know you somewhat and want to sent my sympathies as well.
The pictures and words expressed your love for your mother so well…I hope that you find some comfort in these condolences from those you know and those you don’t…
Rob Turner
Condolences. Wishing peace to all who love her when the pain of loss strikes.
“Grief, I’ve learned, is really just love. It’s all the love you want to give, but cannot. All that unspent love gathers up in the corners of your eyes, the lump in your throat, and in that hollow part of your chest. Grief is just love with no place to go.”
Jamie Anderson
Mia…I am so sorry to read this. I wish I had known and had been more of a support for you. This photo tribute to her is lovely. What great pictures! Your mom’s wedding gown is gorgeous and your dad looked so proud and happy standing next to her. You were a little cutie, too. I’m glad your mom is now at peace. I don’t know how long your road of grief will be, but you must travel it. I know you will find your way, and shed your tears when needed. Sending all my love and sympathy, Kathie 🐦
Sorry for your loss Mia … I know how difficult it is …
Thank you so much for this beautiful post. Helps me too… I love you!
Wonderful photo album too!!!
I am so sorry to learn of the passing of your Mom, please accept my sincere condolences.
OhMia – so sorry you lost your Mom! But I have learned first hand – as you say – she will always be there with you. You will feel her presence in your heart – and in the air. Rejoice in all the good she has imparted in you and the world.
I am so sorry for your loss. No matter how prepared you thing you are and no matter what the circumstance, it is always hard. Take care.
Sorry for your loss, Mia. How blessed you are to have had such a loving relationship with your mother and to have been able to spend time with her before she passed. What a lovely way to honor and celebrate your mom with these photos. Thanks for sharing them with your readers. Having lost my own mom and beloved sister within the last year, I know all too well your grief and sadness. May you find peace and healing via your love of nature and the many memories you have. I’m betting you’ll find solace in the wild spaces of Utah as you continue to show us what you spot through the lens. Take great care.
My deepest condolences to you Mia. A beautiful tribute in pictures and words.
Mia this is a lovely tribute to your mom. I love all the photos a very nice collection of a happy well lived life. I am so sorry for the loss of you mom, your closest friend and best supporter through think and thin. It’s not easy to lose your anchor. I hope you can remember the best and the hardships will lessen with time. I know she appreciated all you have done with this final stage. Please call me if you need talk or get together for a outing my dearest friend, my thoughts are with you.
Heartfelt hugs and oceans of caring are flowing your way.
Words can’t convey the loss of a mom, I still miss mine 20 ears after her passing. But, she’s always around, just like yours will be, Mia.
Mia, My deepest condolences for you loss. I’m sure you have many fond memories, let them help you through your grieving process. Love the tribute you made for her to share with us!!
I lost my dad at a very young age also, so I know that feeling. My mom is still with me and I am her primary caregiver. I can’t image what it will be like to lose her, but I am preparing myself because she is fading quickly.
Take care and know you are in my prayers.
Andrea
Thank you so much for sharing pictures of your mother and other family members. It was a pleasure to look at them. I lost my mom in 2011. Just want to assure you that the intense pain you are feeling now will go away!—Jeri
Oh, Mia, what a beautiful tribute. I send my deepest condolences.
My condolences to you and your family. I love the old photos of your mom but what I love most of all, is the picture taken in March of this year. Her smile says a lot about her. I see warmth, kindness and love. It must have been difficult walking away knowing the earth still spins, people go about their days while the life of someone you love has taken her final breath…But we move forward and onward because this is order of life. I wish you and your family’s hearts begin healing with all the beautiful memories you all have of your mom.
Sending tons of love and gentle hugs to you, Mia. May the memories of your dear mother and the knowledge that so many people care bring you comfort in the times ahead. 💕
I am sorry for your loss and can feel your pain too. They will always be with us where ever we go.
Her legacy lives in you. That’s how it works with the good ones. Wishing you peace knowing she is in peace now.
My deepest condolences. Keep her memory alive in your heart.
Beautiful memorial, Mia.
Thank you for sharing your Mom with us.
And, thank you for sharing your beautiful Nature Self with us.
My deepest condolences, Mia.
Very beautiful tribute to your mom. I am so sorry you are having to go through this. I am praying for you and your family. I loved your mom very much and they are beautiful pictures.
Love you always,
Terry
A wonderful photographic celebration of life. I lost my Dad last month at age 90, both sad and relief…I can empathize with what you are going through.
So sorry Mia, thank-you for posting these lovely photos of your beautiful Mama. Yes she will always and forever be with you, and be there in your heart and soul whenever you need her. xo
Tears fill my eyes when I think of your overwhelming loss. As long as you live she will always be with you!
Very sorry for your loss, Mia.
So sorry for your loss, she sounds like a wonderful mom.
What a beautiful tribute to such a beautiful soul…Sending light, love and healing energy to you and your family
My heart is with you, Mia. I’m so sorry! I loved her posts to your photos.
My deepest sympathies to you & your family. Thank you for sharing these precious family photos and your most moving tribute to your beautiful Mom! Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers!
I’m so very sorry for your loss, Mia. 🙁 Blessings of strength to you all. 🙏🏼
From one who has been there, my thoughts are with you.
Cherish the memories.
Mia, I am very sorry for your loss!
That last picture is a treasure!
So sorry Mia to hear this Mia. I am glad you were able to spend time with her.
My thoughts are with you. You are a wonderful daughter. Sending big hugs. Tim
I am sorry for your loss Mia. She sounds like a wonderful woman, and I know it is hard, but we all have a time to go. My deepest condolences.
I’m sorry for your loss Mia and to know you are hurting. I know from experience that, no matter how much we think we are prepared for the loss of a parent we never truly are. You only have one Mom and it leaves a huge hole. You are wise to try and fill that hole with wonderful memories. Wishing you strength and joy in those.
So sorry to hear this news, Mia! How very special that you were able to care for her and take care of her possessions in her final phase of earthly life. I’m sure words cannot express the appreciation she had/has for you, it is a blessing to be able to somewhat “re-pay” the care she gave you. May you treasure each other in your memories forever.
Thank you for letting us know. And thank you for the wonderful pictures of her life.
It is very hard.
I am so sorry for your loss. She will always be with you in your heart and in the nature around you.
My deepest condolences to you and your family.
So sorry for your loss, Mia.
💙 [hugs]
I am very sorry for your & your family’s loss… I am grateful to have read this beautiful tribute though. Very moved.
Condolences, thoughts, and prayers. 🙏🏻🪶
Justin Roth
Red Tail Heart Photography
What a beautiful tribute to your mum Mia. With those words she will shine on forever.