Gifts from Anne

I never met my father's cousin Anne in person although she made a huge impact on my life.

When I was about 13, I wanted to know more about my family history.  My grandmother recommended that I write to my grandfather's sister, Elizabeth Bell and see what she could tell me. So I sent off my letter to Aunt Elizabeth.

Shortly there after, I received a response from Mrs. Anne Cosby Smith.  She explained that she was Aunt Elizabeth's niece which makes her my father's first cousin.

Every time I read this letter it brings tears to my eyes.  The impact it 14 years later, reading it shortly after the passing of my father, helped fuel my desire to pursue my own genealogical research.

Reading it again several years later, unfortunately lead me to find Anne's obituary.  I so wanted to find her and thank her for this single act of kindness to my 13 year old self.  Instead, her obituary lead me to her children.  Who have opened up their hearts and homes to me.  They share their stories,  family photos, momentos, and Aunt Helen's research.  I cried the day I first met them all.  They were happy tears because they each are a special gift from Anne.

Thank you Anne!