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"Angel Rocks" Comforting the Bereaved
Contributed by: Marion O'Shea Noreen Carmody on 6/9/2008

"Angel Rocks" was born out of a seemingly ordinary event. A good friend dies, people gather around to comfort and ease the grief of family members and one another. Traditionally, we try to be there to give support to loved ones. Sometimes, in an effort to provide solace,we give cards, flowers and plants. As co-directors of a Bereavement Ministry at a local church, Marion O'Shea and Noreen Carmody have had a uniquely intimate view of the grief process.
When a parishioner died suddenly, it was felt that their customary gift of a dish garden was not enough to convey their condolences. They were looking for something more permanent and meaningful. It was decided that a tree would be planted in honor of the deceased and a rock with a simple memorial plaque be placed in front of this tribute. Little did they realize that this would have such a profound impact on the bereaved husband. The memorial generated an unexpected amount of very positive comments. Seeing the "Angel Rock" seemed to resonate on a rather extraordinary feeling level with so many people.The feedback and comments led them to believe that there was a very special connection people experienced when they viewed the "Angel Rock". Some of thesentiments shared were, "Having the rock right here gives me the feeling that my son is always near." "All I have to do is look at the rock and I can feel her presence." "It's such a comfort."
Thus began a period of trial and error, particularly with regard to finding the perfect type of rock. Apparently, Florida is not a state known for its rocky terrain! Originally, it was thought that "river rocks" would be the best choice because of their smooth surface. Unfortunately, smooth though they may be, they were very difficult to work with once it was decided that the memorial plaques would be embedded rather than glued to the surface of the rocks. All rocks are hand picked. One day, while at the quarry, they happened to notice a small palette of marble rocks . It was love at first sight! The bonus was that marble, being a much softer stone, proved to be easier for the mason to work with.
Today, "Angel Rocks"offers the bereaved and friends of the bereaved a unique and special way to commemorate the loss of a loved one. Many people currently residing in Florida have moved here from other states. Frequently, their loved ones are buried in cemeteries to which they no longer have ready access. The "Angel Rock" allows them the opportunity to connect with their loved one in the comfort of their own homes and gardens.
"Angel Rocks" beautiful, environmentally friendly and decorative garden rocks provide the opportunity to memorialize a loved one in a distinctively personal way. Plaques are embedded by our skilled mason and feature the UV resistant Angel Memory Plaque inscribed with the the deceased's name, dates of birth and death and choice of "In Loving Memory" or "Forever Ours". At its center is our trademark Angel holding a banner with the epithet, "In God's Care". Each "Angel Rock" rock is one of a kind in that they are remarkably different in color, shape and size. Individual rock sizes vary in weight and are generally between 15 and 21 pounds.
"Angel Rocks" a new, accessible and lasting way to remember and celebrate your loved one.
For more information please contact "Angel Rocks" by calling: 772-359-3879 or e-mail at angelrocks772@aol.com .



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Showing 1-2 of 2 comments
Submitted By: Marion O'Shea Noreen Carmody
posted on 7/8/2008 @ 6:36:11 PM
Rated Story
Wonderful idea. Surprised this has not happened sooner.
Submitted By: Marion O'Shea Noreen Carmody
posted on 6/9/2008 @ 1:23:13 PM
Rated Story
Very beautiful idea!
Showing 1-2 of 2 comments
CONTRIBUTOR INFORMATION

Marion O'Shea Noreen Carmody

Port Saint Lucie , FL

Marion O'Shea Noreen Carmody has posted 1 story and 2 comments since joining on 6/5/2008. Marion O'Shea Noreen Carmody's average story rating is 5.
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