Delores “Lola” deHoyos O’Byrne.

Without even knowing Lola, her “official” name, to me, was a bit of a mystery. Quite a combination of vowels, for all you English teachers out there. When I first heard her name I couldn’t help but wonder where on Earth had this woman come from. And you know, even now, as she has made the big turn, I’m not sure I know where Lola came from.

Oh, I know she was born in New York, grew up in Mexico, lived and had a family there and then somehow, almost miraculously landed in our little village, knew no one, and remarried an Irish chap. But that really is only a small portion of the Lola story.

Like so many of us who have had the good fortune of arriving here over the years, Lola never could seem grateful enough for the good fortune of her life in Boothbay Harbor. She always spoke about how lucky she was, and this, coming from a woman who had traveled the world and had a life of extreme extravagance. It meant so much to her to be here, to be part of this community, and to share her blessings with people of vast differences. Lola often said, “This community gave me life.”

Lola was very pulled together. I would bump into her often at Hannaford. Me in ratty old Carhartt coveralls after a day of tractor work and mud slinging, Lola in refined black slacks, black and white shoes, a colorful blouse, perfect hair and silver beads. We might meet up in the condiment aisle. She never batted an eye. We hugged, I kissed both sides of her face (sometimes only one) and apologized for being a mess. She’d laugh and ask about the family. We’d meet again two aisles later and visit some more.

Along the way, as Lola’s health began to change, she mentioned her wish for the quoted writing of John Donne, to be the subject of one of my weekly columns. I was reminded of the words from a famous song “Whatever Lola wants ... ” She did have a way of persuading without much effort. I said that I’d be happy to share the quotation which she felt so strongly about, not really thinking that the time might come so soon.

Lola had a strong belief in the human spirit which will live far beyond her years. If she were here today she would want everyone she had come to know, in this community and beyond, that she is thankful to have been part of your lives and grateful for her time with you.

And we with you, Lady Lola, we with you.