Carole Hurley

Tribute

The thing most often said to me by her friends, upon learning of her passing, was just how bright my mother was. What’s remarkable is that she retained her sharp mind and good sense of humor for almost the entirety of her 93 years. Talking to my mother on the phone when she was in her 90s was no different than speaking with her in her 40s or 50s. She simply never sounded or acted like an elderly person. Because she maintained her thoughtful, engaging perspective until the very end, we never had a time when we couldn’t engage in deep, interesting discussions. That is something I am incredibly thankful for. Mom was also fiercely independent—almost to a fault. I often had to discover for myself if there were ways I ought to help her, as she rarely asked for it. Instead, she spent her time helping others. If a friend needed a ride to a doctor’s appointment, a companion for a shopping trip, or a helping hand, Mom was always there, ready and willing.When I learned that she had decided to donate her body to science, I wasn't surprised. It was the ultimate embodiment of her generous spirit—the perfect final act for someone who spent her life helping those around her. Needless to say, she will be missed by many. But she will be especially missed by me.

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