"What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others."

~Pericles

Maria Gloria Mercure

1938-2000

I do not know where to begin writing about my mother, I feel as though I could write forever as 29 years of memories flood through my mind.  The few words that I write here could never do justice to her life, I only write this to try to express my love for this wonderful person.

Shortly before she left us I told my mom that she was my hero, that she had given me a great example to try to live up to. Gloria was a hero in the true sense of the word. She struggled through the most difficult circumstances to achieve what she wanted in life. I appreciated my mother while she was with us but I never fully understood the sacrifices she made for her children until she was gone. 

Gloria had nothing as a child yet gave her children everything. She was abused as a child but was able to raise five children in a healthy, loving and stable home. 

She had a beautiful voice and often sang with my Father at weddings and parties. She loved bingo, shopping and cheering for the Broncos and especially John Elway. 

Gloria was "Mom" to all of the neighborhood children and all of our friends. She was an excellent cook who could feed an army at the drop of a hat. She loved to dance and with my dad amazed everyone with their harmony. She created hundreds of blankets, clothes and crafts in her life which kept her family warm and happy. My Mother had a great sense of humor and could make you feel comfortable by just being around her.

My Mother took my wife in as a daughter and loved all of her daughters-in-law the same way. She smothered her six grandchildren in kisses and hugs and always made sure that they were spoiled the way a grandchild should be. 

My Mother was also tough, she would not allow anyone to disrespect her children and spoke her mind when she felt the need. Her children disagreed with her about her decisions at times but she always followed her heart. She taught me not to care about what other people thought about me. When I asked her how she felt one day, she told me that she was going to be ok because she was hardheaded.  She taught me about true strength and toughness as she handled her illness with grace and serenity. 

My Mother and Father taught me to love God and allowed me the freedom to make my own choices.  She always told me to chase my dreams and to love my brothers and sisters.  Gloria was a true friend to all who knew her and always helped out those in need. 

I can still hear her beautiful voice calling me home, and feel her soft strong hands holding me tight.

 I will remember you always Mom, every time I see your grandchildren's smiling faces, every time I hear the birds sing or a warm wind blows against my face.

Every time that I use the hands that you blessed me with, When I see my Father, Brothers and Sister that you loved so much. Everywhere I go, everything I do, I will take you with me.

I miss you and love you with all my heart,

your son ,

Michael