Mary Lynn Witherspoon

The following letter was written by Jackie Olsen to her niece, Jane Whelchel.  This was the last page of an extensive scrapbook Jackie prepared for Jane of the entire life and memoirs of Mary Lynn Witherspoon, Jane’s mom and Jackie’s sister.

Dear Jane,

           I hope this book endorses what you already knew about your mom…She was beautiful inside and out, kind, thoughtful of others, extremely intelligent, witty, and talented.  She appreciated the finer things of life and had compassion for those who never had such experiences.  She loved teaching children and touched countless lives. 

          From the moment you were born, she took motherhood very seriously.  Being your mother was the joy of her life.  Insuring your happiness was her heart’s desire.  How blessed you were to experience such profound love!  There were many times I’d call her and ask her advice concerning motherhood.

It was obvious she was the perfect one to ask.  I was always so proud to be known as “Mary Lynn’s sister.”  Her life was one of high Christian morals, respectful beyond reproach, and a real spirit of giving to others…and example for us all.  What a beautiful legacy!

          When I found out I was pregnant with my first child, I knew immediately that if I had a girl her name would be Mary.  Her name exuded a gentleness I knew I wanted to instill in my daughter.  Your mom was always a very important part of Mary’s life—her birth, her christening, her life-threatening surgery at age six, her “growing pains,” her grief in the loss of her dad, her debut, and everything in-between.

          Mary Lynn was always such a big part of MY life.  We were not only sisters seventeen months apart; we were best friends.  When I met Tom and fell in love, Mary Lynn quickly recognized the joy I felt.  She celebrated with me.  It meant so much to me to have her support.

          Mary Lynn will ALWAYS be a part of our lives and in our hearts.  Our love for her endures.  That will never change.  We are separated only temporarily. 

          Jane, you are very special to me.  Please know that I am here for you.  I love you very much.  You ARE your mother’s daughter.

                                                                    In Christ’s love,  
                                                                    Jackie Olsen