My Aunt Madelyn who died when I was in my early teens, was one of the most influencial people in my life. 

Her deep spirituality, her love of religious music and ritual, gave me a vision of life beyond the confines of my provential existence.  I remember listening to Perry Como's Ave Maria album over and over with her.  She encouraged and nurtured me and her gentle and loving spirit taught me a lesson far beyond any of her spoken wisdom.