Marie Clipper

May 24, 1927, God blessed me with the greatest gift, LIFE. Under strong belief of Catholic faith and family unity; I was molded, shaped and raised by my mother, Callie Smith and my grandmother, Ella Smith and my extended family of brothers, sisters, aunts and uncles who have all gone before me and received their wings.I was born and raised through my young adult years in Phoenix, Arizona. This is where I received my education, served my community and developed my relationship with God. Being nurtured by two very strong and spiritual women, at a very early age I learned the importance of family values, morals, traditions, and cultures. This mentally, spiritually and emotionally prepared me for the future chapters of my journey.In the late 1940’s my mother and I moved to San Diego, California. One night out on the town we saw a nice looking gentlemen, literally, sitting on a piano. Our eyes met, mom and I exchanged a knowing glace that said, “This is the one!” My comment to him was, “You think you’re cute.” His reply was, “No, you think I’m cute.” HE had me at hello…On July 4th, 1948 Joe Diamond and I were married, and we were blessed with four beautiful children. We had 27 years of devoted love, built on commitment, dedication, faithfulness, trust, respect, and honoring our vows to God. During this time, I learned I had a gift of nurturing not only my family but to others. Unfortunately, Joe left as quickly as he came into my life; on March 14, 1978 he received his wings. I should have known he was still watching over me, for the future chapters of my journey.After long years of courtship, I was finally blessed with my second soul mate on December 15, 1990, Tuner Clipper, Jr. “How lucky and I” with this second chance, oh how I looked forward to growing old with my husband. I loved cooking for him, going shopping together (oh…me shopping and him just tagging along), working in the garden (oh…him working and me watching), tending the children and grandchildren, watching movies together (even the foreign ones), telling family stories over and over again. For 27 years we honored and held this family together through faith, prayer, communication, listening, patience subtle and guidance.On April 11, 2011, God blessed be again with the greatest gift of all EVERLASTING LIFE. On this day I received my wings. Now, go my children, take what you have learned from me, remember to love each other and dance for me.