Sherry Schwedler	Lillie H. Schwedler
12/18/1947 - 06/30/2001	07/09/1907 - 02/23/2000

What kind of person was Lillie? One would have to have known Lillie to try to answer that, but perhaps reading a few pertinent lines from the Prayer of St. Francis of Assisi, which was used in her memorial leaflet would enlighten those who did not know her. "Lord, make me an instrument of Your peace. Where there is hatred, let me sow love; . . . where there is sadness, joy." A warm and loving person to be sure, Lillie never had an unkind word to say about anyone and always tried to encourage one to look on the bright side - there was always hope in Lillie’s eyes, in her warm smile, and in her words. I doubt anything gave her more pleasure than calling one of us on the phone upon hearing of a nice win and offering her congratulations and "way to go". She truly meant it and truly shared your joy. Having a razor sharp mind even into her later years when her health began to fail, she was also one to speak her mind and opinion when she felt it necessary. She adored Collies and seemed to have a never-ending willingness to help the Club function in any way she could. From getting auction items to food donations, Lillie was always there to do her part and then some. Her Collies, of which she was rightfully proud, gave her much joy and pleasure, but you can be sure that in Lillie’s mind and heart lived the words of St. Francis, "For it is in giving that we receive." And now, Lillie, our dear friend and Club member, the North Texas Collie Club proudly gives you the honor you deserve. Keep smiling down upon us.

SHERRY

None of us could truly understand the kind of life laid before Sherry, yet she accepted it as the Lord’s path for her and with a sense of humor that kept many a doctor and nurse laughing (probably for years), as well as those of us who knew her. She loved flowers and animals of all kinds, particularly horses and dogs. She took immense pride in the Sassy Collies that she co-bred and co-owned with her mother and sister. And they seemed to "take to" her like they knew she was a very special human. Sherry helped with many odd jobs for the Club over the years, until she became physically unable. When Sherry was first diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, her attitude was amazing and as the years of battling the disease wore on, that attitude was not only amazing - - it was truly incredible . She did not want anyone’s sympathy; instead, she always tried to comfort others. She loved hearing new jokes and passing on one’s she had heard - she had a special gift for telling a joke in that Texas drawl of hers. It seemed one of her many joys was in the humorous recounting of things that had happened to her, particularly after she was confined to her scooter. Many of these "stories" related to the medical field, usually when she took great pleasure in the shock value of her wit when it came to medical personnel. There isn’t anyone who knew Sherry who was not inspired by her spirit and zest for life, in spite of not being able to do anything for herself at the end. With words from Sherry’s memorial service - "If my parting has left a void, then fill it with remembered joy" - we should remember her and honor her for the joy with which she lived her life.