My first memory of Vicki was her innovative family literacy program at the Pasadena Public Library in the late 1980's. I invited her to Glendora to share ideas. I considered her a friend and mentor and am so sorry to learn of her passing. My thoughts are with her friends, family and colleagues.

Submitted by Connie (Tiffany) Corcoran
ccorcoran@co.tuolumne.ca.us

From the very first day I remember Vickey, as a child, she was sweet, one who shared and in our family she was a peacemaker.

She marched to her own drummer right in the middle of the maddening crowd...and for the past 38 years David marched right beside her. She was smart, witty, lovely and the best sister anyone could ever ask for in the world.

The time had come at the end of April when she knew that no more treatments were possible and death was inevitable. Even in her final days she displayed care, humor and thoughtfulness for everyone who loved and knew her. The most lovely gift she left was a special one for David, which she knew he would find after her death. He feels that this is a message from Vickey for all of us and I cannot agree more:

TAKE ME WITH YOU

Take me with you when I die
Let me live inside your heart
I'll need just a tiny space there
in a deep, warm, loving part.

Take me with you when I die
Let me see what you become,
Feel your joys and your successes,
Soothe your pain and sorrows some.

Though I hate to think of leaving,
When I have so much to do,
Still I won't mourn what I'm missing,
Living on inside of you.

VLJ 2008
2008 copyright.

Submitted by Margaret Dickey Richardson
dickey_richardson@yahoo.com