Thursday, May 4, 2023
Jean was one of my dearest friends from the time I moved to Evans in 2011, and after I moved to Utah, we talked on the phone once a month. I want to share this story and if possible would like it shared at her funeral. When my late husband, Rick Arter and I moved to Evans, Colorado be near his Mom after her husband died, Rick had serious physical issues escalating because of an accident which claimed his right leg. Jeri and Jean became very special to us. One month before Rick died, I had had a very discouraging day concerning my husband’s care and condition to the point of tears. Jean called and when she realized the situation, she announced, “I’m coming over.” It was Dec 5, 2014. She became a kid at Christmastime, helped me pull out my decorations and began to decorate, giggling and singing carols, and cheering me up. She ran across the Christmas tree skirt for a small tree and put it on herself. We laughed and I took pictures. Then she persuaded me to put it on. It fit us both. She says, “Oh Susan, you need to go to the Christmas party at the church tonight.” She then talked me into wearing that Christmas tree skirt to the party for which I received many compliments. People were amazed when I told them what it was and where I got it. That day Jean turned tears into laughter and extended the true meaning of Charity. I’ll never forget her for being a genuine friend in my hour of need. Neither of us knew how soon my husband would depart this life. He passed away the following month, Jan 3, 2015. The last time I saw Jean in person was December 2021 when my new husband of 6.5 months and I went and had pizza with her and she did a skit for us and made us laugh again, a wonderful visit. I will miss her terribly. But every time I pull out that Christmas tree skirt, that story will be told again. I hope she’s listening and will share another giggle with me. A true friend forever. With love, Susan Arter- Muir
