My aunt Jackie (mom’s sister) passed away this morning. Just died.

I was stretched across the bed when Janetta, my best friend, called from California trying to locate the rest of my family which proved to be a nightmare given that we’re scattered across the globe.

Second only to aunt Dorothy, Jackie was my favorite aunt. She was extremely intelligent, stylish, down to earth, a wonderful mom/wife/aunt, and she had the most beautiful speaking voice. As children, she captivated us with stories about our parent’s madcap childhood.

Jackie couldn’t cook to save her life but she taught nieces how to place a mean take-out order. She led by example, and I can’t thank her enough.

While I'm shocked by her sudden death, no tears have fallen. Maybe they’ll come once I’m in San Fran—but for now, I’m content with the knowledge she died without regrets.