Author: John Perry

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Your words — thank you!

… I was lucky enough to get to know her slightly … It was just enough time to see the magical intelligence in her, a quality that I understood her to be developing more and more in subsequent years, during which time I think we had a total of one bit of direct correspondence (following the publication of Elements Of Style). Not having seen her in more than 30 years does nothing to diminish the shock and sorrow of learning that she has gone.

… She was invariably lively, sparkling, clever, sassy, and fun. I am saddened to hear of her dying so young. I know she will be missed.

… I am stunned. To be honest, I was so stunned I couldn’t write back to you right away. I am so sorry for your loss. I cannot believe it.

… I will always cherish her creativity, her wonderful prose, and her amazing capacity for insight into the human condition.

… I will never forget Sarah. She was one of the most unique people I have ever known … She was young, energetic and creative, among other things. She was also very soft and tender with me at some of my most vunerable moments. Her touch will always be cherished. Her smile will always be cherished.

… I was shocked when informed about this tragedy. Even when a death is not unexpected, it comes as an emotional shock. All the more so for something like this.

… I am so terribly sorry to hear this news. What an unspeakable tragedy.

… Sarah will always be a part of you–the times you shared together are as important to the shape of your life as your time before knowing her. Reflect and celebrate her, both with others and on your own. The warmth you had together is a gift that you will always possess.

… Although we didn’t see each other enough, I still have the fondest memories of you and Sarah years back. She was such a creative and kind woman. We still have pillows that she made with the family photos stitched into them. I will continue to hold those memories close to my heart and remember her angelic soul …

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Sarah Hafner. September 12, 1955 – December 4, 2010

It is with the greatest sadness that I must tell you my beloved wife, Sarah Hafner, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, December 4, 2010. She died at Franklin Baystate Medical Center, where she was treated for a rare and sudden intestinal illness. Sarah and I spent more than 14 years of a vibrant life together and had a love filled marriage.

Sarah was a much more interesting person than I could ever be. I simply held up high the pedestal where she could shine.

I hope that you will stop by or call me, from time to time, in this now duller place, and raise a memory high to this star. To remember this bright, artistic, talented, passionately honest, and loving wife of mine, to enjoy her works of creativity and wide range of interests.