| Notes |
- July, 2004:
What a wondeful person she is! Loving, nuturing and fun. Wish I had met her 40 years ago - my life & family would have been so much more...
December, 2012:
Here's a hoot...Mimi is my 18th cousin, once removed through my grandmother, Vernia Swindell Byars (1894-1985).
Click here: http://bit.ly/1k4tx2w
end of note
- Our family lost the sunshine and joy of our lives.
Our sweet, precious Sheila "Mimi" Hennessee passed from us in the late afternoon of Thursday, June 2, 2016.
She was the youngest child, born in 1945, of an old southern Tennessee family, John Rupert & Eula Hansard Mynatt, who have since preceded her along with her adored sister, Jean Dumas, who claimed her Glory in 2010.
Sheila leaves her devoted husband, David, an older brother, John Mynatt, Jr. of Palm Coast, Florida, three grieving children, Tracy Swiatek of Punta Gorda, Florida, and partner, Peggy Foster; Trudi, of Fishers Island, New York, wife to Christopher Edwards and Matthew Swiatek of Dandridge, Tennessee. Three shocked grandchildren; Andrew Edwards, Whitney Edwards,Trevor Swiatek and several nephews & nieces.
Mimi was loved by everyone who knew her. She was always fun to be with and her happy spirit put everyone at ease.
Of course, her children were the center of her life. And they loved their mother dearly. They were in constant contact through daily telephone calls, texts and Facebook entries. When they visited, the family sat poolside talking and laughing until the wee hours.
Mimi was a mother to all; flowers, pets & people.
There was not a kinder, sweeter, lovelier person...
We will have a gathering in her honor Tuesday, June 7th, 2016, 4-6 pm at
Bear Lakes Country Club, 1901 Village Boulevard, West Palm Beach, Florida 33401
end of comment
- Thu 5/12/2016 9:02 AM
Mimi's demise begins:
Mimi was diagnosed with ?acute leukemia? Monday. We met with the specialist yesterday for blood & bone marrow tests. Friday he is to update us and recommend treatment(s).
Will keep you in the loop?
XXXOOO
David
Thu 5/12/2016 3:51 PM
Family & Friends,
Just checked her into Good Sam Hospital. The doctor is proceeding imme with chemotherapy and forecasts a 4-week stay. I pressed him on her chances and he evaded the question or reiterated how seriously ill she is?
XXXOOO D.
Wed 5/18/2016 10:34 AM
Hello Family & Friends.
Many thanks for your continued prayer & support?
Mimi had a good night, as a matter of fact, she said she had the best night's sleep since she been in hospital.
Her spirits are still high and she still has her hair! She's upbeat 'cause daughter Trudi arrives this morning.
Got to pick her up?
We love you all &
Please do not respond?
Thu 6/2/2016 4:39 PM
Hello All.
This is a direct quote from the doctor this morning;
?Bone marrow looks good so far. She is however very ill still - has developed severe pneumonia. Condition remains critical?
I am delighted about the bone marrow which is encouraging. I do fear the fact that her body creates a gene, ?FLT-3?, which is not a good thing?
Poor thing suffers as her insides are burnt from chemo, her mouth is full of sores, she is constantly in and out of a fever condition, her stomach aches, the hyper-fluids require contact trips to the toilet, et. al., ad infinitum?
Every time I think of her there in the hospital, I fall to pieces?
Many, many thanks for your cards, letters, gifts, phone calls & prayers.
XOXOXO David
June 2, 2016:
Dearest Family & Friends.
I can't believe she's gone. It was all so sudden. Thursday morning we had hope because of an encouraging blood report - Thursday evening she is gone. It still doesn't seem real?
Fri 6/3/2016 7:07 AM
We lost our my darling, sweet Mimi June 2, 2016, 6:58 PM due to respiratory complications from the leukemia.
More details to follow?
David
Now the condolences begin...
Fri 6/3/2016 7:37 AM
I am so sorry, cuz. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the rest of the family during this difficult time. I am here any time you need to talk. I know I can't do much, but I can at least listen.
I love you,
Stef
Fri 6/3/2016 7:50 AM
I'm so very sorry to hear this news. I judge people by the happiness they bring to others. By this measure, Mimi seemed to be a great person indeed.
Stay strong and we'll talk soon.
Kevin Cully
Fri 6/3/2016 8:31 AM
Hi David,
This is the email I was fearful of receiving. I hoped for so much more and miracles for Mimi. My heart clenches in sorrow for your loss because I know she was your everything.
I will be in touch by mail outside of work.
I am with you in kindest thoughts, Janna
Fri 6/3/2016 9:02 AM
I am so sorry, cuz. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the rest of the family during this difficult time. I am here any time you need to talk. I know I can't do much, but I can at least listen.
I love you, Stef
Fri 6/3/2016 9:10 AM
David,
So sad. My heart goes out to you. I guess I didn't realize the state of her condition.
My thoughts will be with you and her until I see you which I assume will be soon.
I came anytime. Say when it will work for you. My bags are packed. Let's talk.
Steve
Fri 6/3/2016 10:17 AM
Very sorry for your loss. Beautiful lady. Beautiful soul.
So glad we got to visit with her this week.
Mark Montgomery
Fri 6/3/2016 12:09 PM
I'm so sorry. Have no idea what your going through. Glad Mimi is not suffering anymore.
Love,
Jr
Fri 6/3/2016 1:46 PM
Precious David,
I just loved Sheila, even though I didn't get to hang out with her much. She had the biggest heart and I was so thankful you had found each other. You know we ALL loved her because she was so good to you and ALL of us. I am glad you're going to Tennessee soon...that's exactly where you need to "fall."
I should only have about 2 more days at school, but call me any time, if needed.
Love to you,
dawn
Fri 6/3/2016 4:49 PM
David, my thoughts and prayers are being sent to you and to Mimi's kids. It is such sad news.
If there is anything I can do to help please let me know.
Your friend,
Jed
Sat 6/4/2016 7:48 AM
In my mind and heart Mimi's memory will never fade one bit. From the first time I was welcomed in my new job by a glass mug with flowers on it, to the many many times Sheila treated me to a handmade lunch or piece of amazing cornbread slathered in butter!! My picture of her will always be floating in the pool with a smile and a cocktail relaxing. I will always feel part of the family deeply and previously thanks to her joyful spark and open welcoming loving nature.
Dana
Sat 6/4/2016 8:29 AM
David, this is such a beautiful tribute to her and written so well! I am happy to see you included the mother to all part. That is all I have thought about the last two days... for some reason it has stood out in my mind since you said that to me that one time during a conversation we were having. My heart is breaking for you. Words can't express how sorry I am for your loss or your wife and best friend. I know it is hard, but please make sure you take care of yourself and if you need help, don't be afraid to ask someone.
Sending you lots of love, prayers, and hugs!
(Stefani Hennessee)
Sat 6/4/2016 9:05 AM
Oh, David, I am so sorry to hear this sad, sad news. I know how much you've lost. Your every word and demeanor in our brief conversations told me how happy you were - happier than any time in all the years I've known. She is irreplaceable and nothing I can say will make any difference to what you'll miss.
Grief, loss, the futility and injustice of losing someone you shouldn't. The pain is more and the price is higher because of the love you had.
Just celebrate a lovely life, a darling fellow traveler, and remember those of us who care.
Much love from me, Dave.
My heart is yours
Doug
Doug Ramsdale
847 323-3372
Sat 6/4/2016 9:16 AM
Thank you for sharing.
Elle and I share in your grief and in the smiles of the memories we have with her.
Thinking of you and the family.
Mark (Montgomery)
Sat 6/4/2016 10:05 AM
David that's absolutely beautiful. She will be missed so dearly.
We send you love and prayers from Illinois.
Megan, Doug, Connor and Makena (Mynatt)
Sat 6/4/2016 4:13 PM
Dear David, the words you wrote about Mimi were so very beautiful. I am glad she is not suffering but so very heartbroken for you. She was your heart.
What can we do? Can we send flowers for the service on Tuesday? Please let me know.
I love you dear cousin,
Karen (Mitchell)
Sat 6/4/2016 5:28 PM
Mimi was the kind of person that had a special heart, she would make you laugh when you down in the dumps, but she will change the way you feel. She had a love toward country music especially Luke Bryan. Mimi would be like the grandmother u never have, she would make you something or play with her little bird blue. Mimi had a sprit that could never be crush she would always be happy, and she was a fighter and dear friend to everyone Alexandra Cornell (Lexi)
George's daughter
Diva????????????=
Sat 6/4/2016 5:33 PM
My dear, dear friend...Please know that I'm hurting with you and for you and want you to know I'm here for you... ready to hug, to listen, to cry with you. What I do know is that Sheila completed you... I had never seen you so happy when she became a part of your life. This is what you need to remember. I love you! Colby
Sun 6/5/2016 12:47 PM
Precious David,
You have endured much loss. I believe God didn't want you to shoulder any more burdens alone so He called Sheila to be faithful and walk beside you. She made you better and renewed your spark and hope. You may believe God called her home too soon because you still need a companion. I can see, as in my own life, that our needed companion was personified in our mothers' lives and for you, brought more into focus through Sheila's life. Lay yourself down at the feet of Jesus, who is waiting.
I am specifically praying for you throughout the day for strength, clarity, and understanding.
I love you so very much. You know my mama would have loved Sheila because they are kindred souls. Neither saw a problem, especially strife, without rolling up their sleeves and vanquishing it because that's what Jesus would do. I remember the way my mama looked at you, with immeasurable love. You know the look :)
I stand with you, Cuz!
Everlasting love,
Dawn (Cline)
Sun 6/5/2016 2:59 PM
Very tragic David my friend, I cannot phone you, I will choke ( I am on prostate cancer treatment which makes me cry easily)
Mimi was your only true soulmate. Since I have met you more than twenty five years ago I have never seen you so happy after you married Mimi, she instilled in you a calmness and a passion for life.
Amanda and I are praying for you that God will help you fill this deep emptiness in your life
Mimi was truly a flower, beautiful and she lit up the life of everybody around her
She will rest in peace and her memory will live forever in our hearts
Our sympathy is with her family and her children
We wish you all the strength to face everyday with all those wonderful memories of Mimi
PS: David you will always be our good friend and if you ever get the urge to visit this part of the world our house is wide open any time
(Jan de Wit, Johannesburg, South Africa)
Sun 6/5/2016 10:40 PM
I too had the opportunity to benefit from the love and tenderness Aunt Mimi shared with all that had that fortune. I envy those of you that experienced it in abundance...if there's such a thing.
Two things Mimi did for my Uncle Dave during their 17 years of marriage::
1. She stole - She stole away all of his sorrows
2. She lied - She lied with him every night they were in their home
What she could not do was "Cheat" - Cheat death. Now we are challenged to continue our lives without this wonderful mother, grandmother, aunt, friend to all, and wife to my Uncle.
Let us find solace that she is in a better place and not suffering. And, remind ourselves daily to treat others as would Mimi.
Love,
Junior (Brett Craig)
Sun 6/5/2016 10:53 PM
My Dear Mr. David,
I cannot believe that it was happen to my beautiful Mimi, yesterday, I was in the Super Market and I saw a nice lady very alike than our Mimi, I was crying asking to the Universe Why? Suddenly every thing changed? Ii I would like to write this for my Mimi:
Mimi was a kind person with many virtues:
she was a loving wife, a caring mother, a kindhearted and beloved friend,
a person who loved her pets and who enjoyed working in her garden.
Her beautiful and gracious green eyes always expressed her feelings.
She was my American mother and will be deeply missed.
Mimi departed this world, but her loving memory will always live in my heart.
Rest in peace my Mimi. MY MOM!! I love you?
Please let me know how are you going? Very concern about your health, in this sad moments we must be together to face our loss L
With love,
Chiki
(Norma Gomez, Aukland, New Zealand)
Mon 6/6/2016 9:27 AM
Precious David,
You have endured much loss. I believe God didn't want you to shoulder any more burdens alone so He called Sheila to be faithful and walk beside you. She made you better and renewed your spark and hope. You may believe God called her home too soon because you still need a companion. I can see, as in my own life, that our needed companion was personified in our mothers' lives and for you, brought more into focus through Sheila's life. Lay yourself down at the feet of Jesus, who is waiting.
I am specifically praying for you throughout the day for strength, clarity, and understanding.
I love you so very much. You know my mama would have loved Sheila because they are kindred souls. Neither saw a problem, especially strife, without rolling up their sleeves and vanquishing it because that's what Jesus would do. I remember the way my mama looked at you, with immeasurable love. You know the look :)
I stand with you, Cuz!
Everlasting love,
Dawn
Mon 6/6/2016 9:30 AM
Dear David, the words you wrote about Mimi were so very beautiful. I am glad she is not suffering but so very heartbroken for you. She was your heart.
What can we do? Can we send flowers for the service on Tuesday? Please let me know.
I love you dear cousin,
Karen
Mon 6/6/2016 9:34 AM
Thank you for sharing.
Elle and I share in your grief and in the smiles of the memories we have with her.
Thinking of you and the family.
Mark
Mon 6/6/2016 11:34 AM
David,
What can I share with my friend that could possibly give him solace? From my own experience I can tell you that SHE IS NOT GONE, as you say. When Christine died I could not imagine my life without her. There was a huge empty space filled with pain.
And now after 27 years I can tell you that she has been with me all that time and will likely be the last thing I think of in my last moments.
Because we cannot see her doesn't mean she isn't there. Talk to her every chance you get and her presence will become more real and you will be the lucky guy who gets to be with her for ever. Can there ever be a time when I won't be with you in thought or memory? We move to a new venue. You simply can't imagine it but Einstien proved it so. A conversation a day keeps the blues away.
Steve (Levin)
Mon 6/6/2016 11:49 AM
"The Traveler"
She has put on invisibility.
Dear Lord, I cannot see---
But this I know although the road ascends
And passes from my sight,
That there will be no night;
That You will take her gently by the hand
And lead her on Along the road of life that never ends,
And he will find it is not death but dawn.
I do not doubt that You are there as here,
And you will hold her dear.
Our life did not begin with birth,
It is not of the earth;
And this that we call death, it is no more
Than the opening and closing of a door---
And in Your house how many rooms must be
Beyond this one where we rest momently.
Dear Lord, I thank you for the faith that frees,
The love that knows it cannot lose its own;
The love that, looking through the shadows, sees
That You and she and I are ever one
For Sheila and Christine
We will think of them with love in our hearts...everyday
(Steven Levin)
Mon 6/6/2016 1:23 PM
Wrote this Mimi, I hope you will read it for her.
When I first met Mimi, I loved her instantly. She was warm, quick witted, and had so much spunk. I thought for sure David would never be able to keep up with her. We clicked instantly, like she had known me my whole life and understood who I really was. I was able to visit Mimi and David several times and it was always a treat. Mimi grew amazing orchids and had 2 parakeets that she would let fly around the pool area while we lounged in paradise. Plus She always knew the best thrift stores to send me shopping. Mimi had a gentleness about her that made you instantly feel at home. She was an amazing women and it was easy to see how happy she made David and he made her. I am happy that she became a part our family, I will miss her smiling face. I love you Mimi.
(Briena Harmening)
Mon 6/6/2016 3:37 PM
David,
My times spent with Mimi were small sprints and interactions across several years. Dinners, visits to the house, short conversations - analogous to sound bites vs. a full length movie, or an after dinner drink vs. a bottle of wine.
Because I knew you long before, and sadly, will know you long after Mimi has left us, I want to share my view of her impact on you.
Mimi made you more of what you like to be
Mimi made you less of what you don't like to be
Mimi made you patient when it wasn't convenient
Mimi made you feel loved when others couldn't
Mimi made it easy for you to love where you once thought you may not
Mimi made you feel accepted for who you are
Mimi made you feel served, where others wanted to be served
Mimi made you want to serve her
Mimi made you a good husband
Mimi made you appreciate a good wife
Mimi made your time your time, and was happy with her time
Mimi made your time together special
She was your perfect compliment, and while we will miss her terribly, you will still be better every day because of her...for the rest of your years.
May she rest in peace, and may you find smiles in her memory.
Mark
Mon 6/6/2016 5:56 PM
Dear David, wish I could be there and give you "bushels" per Aunt Pearl, of hugs and kisses. Our prayers and thoughts will be with you and all of Mimi's family tomorrow. She was your sunshine. And brought alot of sunshine to all of us with her kindness, sense of humor and Ma-like sweetness.
Lisa, Kenny, Dawn and I sent a flower arrangement. Beautiful colors just like a beautiful Mimi.
We love you,
Karen and Emily
Mon 6/6/2016 7:26 PM
Sheila Hennessee personified the words on the needlework my Mother completed that hangs in my home. "The love in you heart wasn't put there to stay, love isn't love until it is given away." Sheila graciously gave the love in her heart away. Sheila loved and was loved by many. I only met her once, but had such a wonderful time with her. I was fortunate to enjoy email, phone and facebook conversations with Sheila. Always kind, sweet and caring, I could feel the smile through the phone lines when we talked. My cousin David adored her, she the light of his life. I am happy that they found each other, as their existence together was a testament to how rich life can really be. I thank God for bringing Sheila into our lives, will always cherish her and feel blessed by knowing her.
Cousin Karen Sue
Mon 6/6/2016 11:17 PM
My story of Mimi from Kenny
It was in the fall of 2015, one day I'll never forget. Mimi and I had the most wonderful day together. She and David had visited the farm one evening, stayed over night and the next day, Mimi and I had such a great day. She was so excited to ride the four wheeler around the farm and see all the cattle and babies that had been born and as fate would have it, we went down to the woods and there stood a little newborn calve, a little girl. We tagged the girl calve which her number was/is number 1 which I sent to Matt, her son a picture. She was so excited to watch it and get it's first milk. From that day on, I would always ask her, "how's my cowgirl?" And, by the way, if you knew Mimi at all, you know she would try anything once. She had to drive my new tractor that day as well which she called, Big Red, but to my amazement she did so, so, so good driving my new tractor, "Big Red." We moved hay rings that day from one field to another and she seemed to have the time of her life. We spent all day working around the farm but it wasn't work at all between us. We laughed, joked and just hung out together. I had such a great time and I sure hope she did as well. She made my day and I will forever remember and Love her. She was my friend and I will miss her. I will miss her kind, loving words, her jokes, her texts. She was a special lady and I am honored to have known her for the time I did. I'm thankful she was a kind, loving wife to my cousin David and I will never forget that day she and David came to visit with me at the farm. I will cherish those moments and I will always hold them close to my heart.
(Kenny Wright)
Tue 6/7/2016 7:25 AM
Sheila Hennessee personified the words on the needlework my Mother completed that hangs in my home. "The love in you heart wasn't put there to stay, love isn't love until it is given away." Sheila graciously gave the love in her heart away. Sheila loved and was loved by many. I only met her once, but had such a wonderful time with her. I was fortunate to enjoy email, phone and facebook conversations with Sheila. Always kind, sweet and caring, I could feel the smile through the phone lines when we talked. My cousin David adored her, she the light of his life. I am happy that they found each other, as their existence together was a testament to how rich life can really be. I thank God for bringing Sheila into our lives, will always cherish her and feel blessed by knowing her.
Cousin Karen Sue
Tue 6/7/2016 10:56 AM
David,
We've had you on our minds every day and wishing there was something we could do to ease what you're going through. There is no way we can know how you feel, only imagine how hard the loss of Sheila is. Wish we could be there with you today, but know that our hearts are with you, our arms are hugging you and we will hope that you will be given a measure of grace to be able to celebrate Sheila's beautiful life.
We love you so very much,
Kathy and David (Tugman)
end of comments
- Mimi, adieu?
Family and friends celebrated Sheila's life, 4-6 pm, this past Tuesday, June 7, 2016 at Bear Lakes Country Club. I chose the club as we were married there on March 28, 2004.
Mid-way through the event I spoke a few words, cited a poem, and then Pastor Shaun Blakeley of Christ Fellowship, Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, gave a brief homily and benediction.
The room was festooned with beautiful flowers and orchids sent by her friends and mourners. It was a large turn-out. Instead of the 25-30 people I expected, we had in fact, over 85 family and friends.
Trudi found the poem, "She Is Gone!", by David Harkin. I recited it because his instructions would be Sheila's desire for us?
"You can shed tears that she is gone
or you can smile because she has lived.
You can close your eyes and pray that she'll come back
or you can open your eyes and see all she's left.
Your heart can be empty because you can't see her
or you can be full of the love you shared.
You can turn your back on tomorrow and live yesterday
or you can be happy for tomorrow because of yesterday.
You can remember her and only that she's gone
or you can cherish her memory and let it live on.
You can remember her and only that she's gone
or you can cherish her memory and let it live on.
You can cry and close your mind,
be empty and turn your back
or you can do what she'd want:
smile, open your eyes, love and go on."
Family Attendees:
Daughter Tracy Swiatek with partner, Peggy
Daughter Trudi Edwards with husband, Chris, and their daughter, Whitney and son, Andrew
Son Matthew Swiatek
Brother John R. Mynatt, with Gail, his wife, Rhonda, his daughter, Johnnie, his son and Philip, Johnnie's son
Nephew C.J. Dumas
Husband David Hennessee
Friends who signed the guest book (some of the signatures were illegible):
Joe Marttirano (attended our wedding)
Paul Johnston
Candace Keen
Bud Blount (attended our wedding)
Carole Lee
Jean & Wayne Meisenzahl (attended our wedding)
Ann & Ernie Borgese (attended our wedding)
Victor Carlucci
Martha Johnson
Patty Markic
Dana Haverman
Deb & Sissy
Mary Lovely
Laurie Lovely
Chris Lovely
Richard Frechette
Lisa & Joe Arrigo
Christiane & Joe Fox (attended our wedding)
John & Donna Wilson
Tammy Horner
Pat Schmidt
Bruce & Mrs. MacDonald
Dick Mazzola
Mauricio & Angela Prettel with their daughter, Isabella
Michael Arconti
Dana & Angie Quigley
Shaun Blakeney
Greg Martzoff
Ted Strelec
Gabriela Goldstein, our family doctor
Merridith Gustafson (attended our wedding)
Michael McDonald
Geoff & Janice Thomas (attended our wedding)
Geroge & Lila Cornell
Daniel Newman
Tina Rosenna
Arthur & Barbara Malaussena
Luiza Torres
Kitty Mollenberg (attended our wedding)
Joanne Ciccotti
Linda DeFrehn
Pat & Pixie Cary
Pat Sheridan
After the celebration, the family dined at Bellagio's in City Place, West Palm Beach, Florida for more reminiscences and a final good-bye?
Nephew Johnnie was afraid that his 4-year old son Philip would disrupt the table with his youthful & playful antics and disturb the older members of the family. In retrospect, I now think that this toe-headed, animated, young boy was a perfect example of, ?Life is for the living?.
This is my last missive.
Sheila was my wife, my lover, my best friend and we truly were ordained as one.
I cannot picture my future without her. Everything in my life and this house reminds me of her yet I do know that ?time heals all?.
Hurry time, hurry?
David
end of commentary
- Those family members and friends who sent flowers:
Geoff & Janice Thomas
Pauli Johnston
Aunt Pearl and her children; Kathy & David, Gayle & Johnny, Robert & Angela with Ber
Jed Haislip
Gary & Debbie George for Briena, Janet, Lori & Paul
Cousin Jane & Aunt Betty
Bear Lakes Country Club
Fishers Island Club
Cousin Cheryl Blanks
Mike & Christine Cornett
Lisa, Kenny, Dawn, Karen & Emily
Kevin Cully
Martha Millsaps
Frank & Betty Webster
Mark & Elle Montgomery
end of note
- Those family members and friends who sent cards or notes of condolence:
Frank, betty, Jack & Tess Webster - friends in Liverpool, England
Joe Martirano
Cousin Janet
Dana Haverman
John Stapleton
Alland & Evelyn Whitney
Dr. Smukler & Staff
Maryanne Alfieri
Beverly Belote
Jimmy Mitchell
Lisa Gahlau
Pat & Pixie Carey
June & Tony Buthray
Jeff & Kim Batts
Laurie Norman & Staff
Cousin Marie Ponder
Janna Michaelis
John Gustafson, Jr.
Karen Gustafson Compasso
Aunt Pearl
Cora Longacre
Cousin Kathie Tugman
Geoff & Janice Thomas
Darryl Hinkle
Candace Keen
end of note
|
1945 - 2016 (70 years)
[1, 2]