This needlepoint of The Blue Angel is dedicated to the memory of Marni Pont O’Doherty.
Marni Pont O’Doherty was 31 when she died on 9/11. She’s gone, but she’ll never be forgotten. Even though we never met, let me tell you a little about her. First, so you can see her and keep her in your memory, here’s a picture of Marni with her husband Joe.
She was a hard-working (senior vice president with Keefe, Bruyette & Woods) but fun person, the kind of person anybody would have loved to have as a friend: she had a curious mind and loved to know and do things. What’s the clue to that? Marni’s siblings, “Steven and Stefanie Pont [say t]heir younger sister threw herself into a series of hobbies, from needlepoint to painting to gardening, and delighted in researching amusing information and e-mailing her findings.” She liked needlepointing! How utterly fabulous that we have that in common. Plus, Marni liked to tell funny stories; she loved to talk. Just writing this about her brings a smile to my face cuz I’m thinking about some of the stories I’ve heard from other talkers. Providing substance for her gift for gab, Marni was also a voracious reader.
Marni had her life planned, her wedding and car saved for while still in college. Focused, bright, joyous, a source of delight to family and friends, a loving wife, a woman who loved life and gave it all she had. That was Marni Pont O’Doherty.
So, let us remember her on this eighth memorial of 9/11 and every day, taken so swiftly and cruelly from us. Let us rejoice in her life and the joy she brought to all those who knew her. Let us mourn her death and never ever forget how it came about. For Marni. For America.
Eternal and ever-wise God, for Marni’s loved ones, I pray that you may comfort them in their sorrow and give them peace, not as the world gives but as only You can give, in Christ Jesus, Amen.
