Mom painted so many things, she painted portraits of family, portraits of interesting photos of people she saw in magazines. Mom painted churches, and painted barns. Mom painted vases, flowers, trees, sea shells, mountains, lakes and landscapes.
So many of her family members have several, if not many, of her lovely paintings. Some are tucked away to be displayed at a later date, while some are hung on the walls of homes. Kitchens, dining rooms, bedrooms and even sometimes bathrooms display the beauty of her work!
As with most artists, Mom had a painting style all her own. Her family came to treasure that Willis Watercolor style.
Mom's gone now - she's showering her love on Dad and other family members in Heaven and she's singing in the choir, singing praises to Jesus! Along with all the memories of Mom, her paintings also still remain.
One small detail of these paintings, but one big statement is her signature on each and every one. All pieces of art by Mom are signed "Bev Willis".
Upon closing the pantry door the other day, where the beautiful magnolia painting has hung for over 10 years, suddenly, this signature, "Bev Willis" filled my vision like never before. It was as if all of the sudden the signature became the dominant portion of the beautiful picture.
It was as if Mom spoke out loud, "I am here, Sweetie. I am still with you in spirit and in love." Seeing this signature brought back to my heart and my soul all that Mom ever was to us, her family and to her friends and all acquaintances. Mom was graceful, funny, loving, patient, kind, giving, She was faithful, smart, creative, talented and ever so much more.
Mom's Signature hit hard. It was a statement - It was Mom that penned her name, and it was that signature that breathed Mom's life into that picture. It was like hearing a recording of a loved one's voice after they have passed on. The signature is a symbol of Mom's life and her love. It's her life that created that signature, her love and her passion went into that signature. And because of that signature and because of so many other things that Mom touched, Mom still lives today. She lives in our hearts, in our souls, in our memories and she lives in our futures. Mom, we will see you again, and will rejoice when we join you and all of our loved ones in Heaven, Praising His Holy Name!
