Lenora Irene Gaither, Oil on Canvas

I painted my first oil portrait in 1993 of my Great Grandmother and it is still my most cherished. I remember after painting it, studying each line, wrinkle and spot on her face when she sat next to me. I also remember as I painted, a chill went up my spine as I envisioned this piece being displayed at her funeral. When she passed away in 2002, God used this piece to bring comfort becasue she is so alive in this picture! She was born the same year the Titanic sank. Her brother, thought to be dead, returned from WWII two years after being a POW. Her only daughter and Husband died only one month apart from each other. She selflessly took in my mother during that time of deep time of loss. She was a woman of deep faith. It was through her influence and prayers that thousands, including my entire family, will be able to thank her in Heaven someday.