My Grandma Ruby died of breast cancer on February 19, 1959 just 6 1/2 weeks after I was born.  My Grandpa, Frank Smuin was devastated when she died.  My mother said he was “devoted to my mother and loved her deeply.  He called her My Jewel.”

Grandpa Franklin  was staying with our family in Reedley, when on the morning of April 6th, 1959 he told my mother that he was ready to die now.  He said he had nothing left to live for and he missed Ruby terribly.  Later that day, as he sat at our kitchen table, he had a heart attack, slumped in his chair, and was gone.

Franklin was a kind and gentle man.  I would have liked to have known him.  I am glad our earthly sojourns crossed for a few weeks.  I like knowing he held me in his arms.

Franklin was 65 years old when he died.  He and Ruby are buried in Forest Lawn, Glendale, Los Angeles, California.