It brings us a heavy heart to say that Missy Raines’ sister has passed away yesterday. Missy shared the news with us this morning that with the passing of her beloved sister, she is now the last of her family. Please exercise patience and compassion during the weeks to come, as Missy will be taking time for herself to properly grieve and celebrate her sisters life.

My dear friends,

This week has been one of high-highs and the LOWEST of lows. As to the 'highs', there will be another time for me to share that with you. Right now, my heart has been broken (again) with the loss of my only sister, Barb, yesterday. While her health had not been great for a long time I never ever prepared for this moment. She was strong and a fighter and very brave. She was 12 years older than me and she took care of me when I was little and I got to repay a little of that later in life, hopefully.

I found this photo of her when she worked at the National Gallery of Art in Washington DC. She was probably about 19 or 20 years old, on her own, her first big adventure in THE city of cities, pursuing her dreams of a career in interior design. She eventually came back to WV to marry her love and to raise two amazing sons. I love this photo because this is the beautiful girl I once shared a bedroom with, who used to brush my hair, and never complained when mom sent me along with her on outings and dates. She did call me 'clingy'. And I'm sure I was. She was my big sister. She was ALWAYS there for me.

My heart is broken.

Sincerely,
Missy

Our hearts go out to Missy during this difficult time, and although words might fall short for expressing sorrow for her loss, please keep her in your thoughts and prayers. Thank you.