JERI LANDRUM REMEMBERED

Today I visited Coates funeral home in Waterford to remember the life of Jeri Landrum...I met Jeri when I was in 5th grade, her daughter Heather was on the Waterford Village cheerleading squad and my oldest sister happened to coach her. a friendship between my sister & Jeri was formed. I also formed a friendship with Jeri's daughter Heather and she became like a little sister to me for those years. Today as I was leaving Heather asked me if I would jot down a few thoughts about Jeri whose is leaving behind two beautiful grandchildren who are 2 years & 6 months old respectively. I told Heather I'd be honored although those kids don't need to look too far past their mother to discover the spirit of their Grandma. Heather & Jeri had a very close relationship. I remember thinking that Heather was one of Jeri's closest friends even though Heather was in THIRD GRADE. Jeri was Bubbley and FUNNY and she showed such grace towards me by laughing at my juvenile jokes. I always felt welcomed and loved in Jeri's home on the lake. she had that hospitality rule of "what's mine is yours" did I want chinese food for dinner ? did I want something to drink ? and on and on...She loved the Redwings! before the whole world had cable Jeri had something called PASS/On TV that allowed us to watch the Redwings almost every time they played. but most of all Jeri LOVED Heather. My sister Lee and I would often joke about how Jeri was spoiling Heather but deep down we were just jealous. they had quite the relationship back then...the love they shared was VERY DEEP & REAL. Years later when I had just graduated from high School I ran into Jeri Landrum as she was picking up Wing Lauk's carry out...I double glanced and she looked at me and instantly said "HI!" and it was as if I hadn't missed a day even though it had been years...but that was Jeri's gift...she could make you feel warm and loved because she genuinely cared, she didn't have a phony bone in her body. and now today I see Heather Anderson after all these years, at first I was admittedly nervous because I wasn't much of a big brother the last two decades. but when I spotted my little sister across the room and she wandered over to say hello on one of the toughest days of her entire life she spilled over with that Jeri like warmth and Grace. she reminded me of some of the many memories we shared when we were kids. amusement parks, musicals & BeeGee's records! oh my gosh she loved that terrible "Grease" movie. it all started to come flooding back. all those great memories that we have were made possible because of my sister Lee bring us all together. I wasn't surprised today when Heather told me she now worked for a Dentist. because people who laugh alot also smile alot! and Heather and that great smile of hers would be the perfect fit for a Dentist's office. I thank GOD I had the Landrums in my life at an awkward time for my personal insecurities. they built up my confidence and made me a better person. can't wait to see you again in Heaven Jeri! and we'll share lots of laughs because my jokes are still stale and Heather if you ever need your big brother just call me. But in GOD's own amazing way he has given you another Jerry to share your life with and I hope he spoils you just like your mom did... Love Kevin

Pictured: Heather & Kevin at CEDAR POINT 1978 (30 years ago)