Tracy Vess lived life. She never shied away from a challenge and she had the fire of a bobcat mixed with a great sense of humor. She had a sassy mouth. She was a first class prankster and luckily she found her equal in Talbert who could take it as well as he could dish it out. There was nothing more fun than to watch Tracy and Talbert try to get the best of each other. Tracy had a cowgirl's walk that characterized her spirit, it said "Don't get in my way and don't slow me down". She had a sparkle of mischief in her eyes. She loved horses, dogs, cats and the country. She loved Native American lore and spirituality. She was stubborn and contrary and kind and generous to a fault. She was cute as can be and made of steel. If someone was in need, she was the first to show up to help and always went above and beyond the call of duty. She was truly unique. She wasn't scared of anything, not even her own death. Her biggest regret was not getting more time with her husband Talbert and doing the things they had hoped to do when they found the time.
 
Tracy was diagnosed in November 2008 with stage IV pancreatic cancer at the age of 46. I am typing this with much sadness on February 28 2009. Her very first thought upon learning this devastating news was of her children and how they would navigate life without her. Tracy and Talbert's is a blended family. She brought two, Jesse and Jacob to the marriage, he brought one, Christopher. Christopher is 21, Jacob is 20 and Jesse is 19. They think they're all grown up, but we old folk all know better, it's hard to be a young adult without mom to keep us on the right track.
 
Tracy maintained her warrior spirit and courage to the very end, along with her concern for her children. She made sure that loose ends were tied up as best she could for them. Old family heirlooms were painstakingly sorted through, and with careful thoughtfulness she decided who should get the things that would mean the most to them. But the finest legacy that she leaves them is her love, courage and her best hopes and wishes to live good and happy lives. She was so proud of the fine young adults they are becoming.
 
Jesse is a freshman in college and wants to become a pharmacist and she is going to need all the financial help she can get. Financial aid and grants help and she holds down a job while maintaining good grades in tough courses. Jesse is going to need a little help to get her through the next few years of schooling  I made a promise to Tracy to make sure her beautiful children would get their fair chance in this world and I hope you will see fit to help me do that. Please donate if you can to this beautiful and deserving young lady.

Thank you, from Tracy's friend Frances.