In my 37 years, Ive never known a greater neighbor than Neilda Sussman. She lived next door to my parents for 42 years. Growing up, she was my 2nd mom. I spent so much time in her house as a kid that I can recall every room in detail. She was always on the phone, but she had a sixth sense about when we were misbehaving and would always catch us in the act. She knew me like the back of her hand. She knew I didnt like milk and would only pour me a 1/2 glass at a time so as not to waste it. She knew I couldnt be trusted to apply my own sunscreen & would slather Desitin all over me at the pool whether I liked it or not. She was one of the few people that always called me by my full name Abigaaail all drawn out in her amazing southern accent. She was the kind of neighbor that would always call out to you if she saw you outside or in the street. She would always come over for a chat to see how you were, and you could always count on her for whatever you needed. For years I walked into her house without knocking just as I walked into my own house. She was funny in a easy, natural way, always ready to smile or laugh, unapologetic about her terrible driving, and just the kindest, warmest woman you could ever hope to be around. A couple years ago, when meeting my parents for dinner near their house, I saw Neilda in the nail salon getting a pedicure for her trip to Hawaii. I was late, but I felt compelled to go in and talk with her and catch up for a few minutes. It was like no time had passed even though I hadnt seen her in years. I didnt know it would be our last conversation, but I am so glad I went in to say hello and didnt just walk by. Thats what she would have done and thats what I learned from her, theres always time to say hello. Thank you Neilda for helping raise me and for being such a stellar, solid human being for me to look up to. I am blessed to count you among my spirit ancestors now, and I hold your memory in my heart always.
Posted on: Fri, 12 Sep 2014 08:11:42 +0000
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