Maddie Behrens
I knew Evelyn for my entire adult life, we met through work; and even after I left we stayed in touch. She knew this, but to me she was more than my friend; she was family, and one of my biggest idols.
She was exactly who I needed her to be, whenever I needed. A friend, loyal and full of life. A grandmother, tender and full of compassion. A cheerleader, proud and 100% supportive. A teacher, to offer wisdom and comfort. Evelyn was so many things, to so many people. She was bright, and unapologetically brave.
Her life was full of wonders, and she really knew how to tell a story. She always made me laugh the hardest, and smile the widest. Getting a call from her instantly made my week. Because anyone who knew Evelyn, knew what it was like to be loved, unconditionally and wholeheartedly.
You could feel the sun through her hugs, and find songs hidden in her laugh (which filled any room you found her in, by the way). She was one of the most genuine, pure, and accepting people I knew. Always generous with her time, energy, and love. Always extending a comforting hand when you needed it.
There are so many things I wanted to tell you, Evelyn. So many things I wanted to share with you. Memories I wish we could’ve made. And there are so many things I’m going to miss. I’m going to miss seeing your face light up at the Olive Garden bar when you see me. I’m going to miss hearing about your adventures, and I’m going to miss those classic Evelyn roasts/disses.
She could be quite feisty, and it was one of the things I loved most about her. You could never steal her fire, her passion, or her drive.
I will miss her for the rest of my life, but I will also live every day for her like it’s my last. There is beauty in the world, and Evelyn saw it every day.
Her final lesson, her last piece of advice: Live brightly, and be sure to pause and take in all of the beauty you light up around you.
After everything is said and done, she too, was wonderful.
