Born in the time of black and white
When flappers flapped and roared
When women got the vote and unions got workers rights
She took us through the strikes
The scab neighbor forever shunned
The week end won by strikers and solidarity
Now the bass note in the rhythm of life
They had next to nothing at times
But possessed a vast wealth of contagious can-do-ism
By will, by faith, by blindfaith optimism
Earning badges of respect through
Breadlines and war, steeling the blood with grit and determination
Leaving the steeltown behind to marry her love
Her smile on a photo from the twenties the same at 100
A kind and knowing smile the guiding beacon
In the land of the sun, in the dreamworld of Los Angeles
Planted a family in her garden and watered it with love
Harvested seven children, seven grands and six greats
All sprouting from one suitcase on the DC-3 from the old world
Whatever we aspired to, whatever we shunned, she supported
No questions asked, no promises demanded
Just go and do what it takes to be a good son or daughter
And after her grand example this then is the only possibility left
And so we go on fortified by her long life
That gives reality to happy endings from humble beginnings