My Marjory

Songs, like stories often arrive exactly when you need them. In 2023, when I was writing my father’s eulogy, Taylor Swift’s Marjorie found me. I had a Marjory, with a Y. My father’s mother, and I was her youngest grandchild.

It seemed fitting as I sat at my keyboard weaving in my dad’s favorite quotes from the Beatles, Bobby Darin, Kris Kristofferson, Van Morrison, the Dubliners, and Cat Stevens, Swift’s Marjorie brought Dad’s eulogy to life.

My Marjory loved to brag loudly about her loved ones —not to boast, but because she believed lifting others up helped them soar.

My Marjory was one of five first-generation Boston Irish daughters - most educators, one even becoming a lawyer in 1919. She lost her husband early and a granddaughter soon after. A few years later, I came along.

Every Sunday at Mass, my Marjory pointed to the wooden angels carved into the rafters and told me about my angels. That’s where it started. That’s where I learned about angels. ✨

And it’s my Marjory who started singing this story to me now. Sailing with Angels is also sparked by a soundtrack of other great songs. Over time I’ll share those backstories too.

Happy Birthday Taylor. Thank you!

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