When we depart this dimension of time and space, if we have bequeathed to those for whom we’ve cared and have cared for us stirring sentiments and fond memories, then we have had a life well lived. Saddened we may be by the loss of a dear one, some of us feeling the ache of the empty space she once occupied, but Mary Jo will live on in hearts and minds. Below are some sentiments of those who chose to share with us a small portion of their experiences of and with Mary Jo Hynden.
I considered Mary Jo a trusting friend. I knew her first through tennis, but unfortunately gave tennis a rest because of back issues. Mary Jo often called to ask me to play Wednesday mornings, a casual game, but I was always booked with volunteering. I feel like those were missed opportunities to be with her. I looked forward to seeing her at book club, her views always enlightening. We were also in a "girls game night" group. She added depth to any group and social setting. I wish I could honor her by attending the service, but unfortunately I am up north. I grieve for the family, there loss and also the loss to the Gulf Harbour community. (Jean Kin)
Bill & I have been so fortunate to meet such nice people in Gulf Harbour and Mary Jo & Jim are certainly a couple that we include being proud to know. Mary Jo was a friendly and gracious lady on & off the court. I am lucky & proud to have been one of her teammates on a Silver team for a couple of years. Mary Jo set a fine example for all of us to follow both as a player & lady. While it is sad to say goodbye to her, my memory of her is still alive & quite vivid of her smiling on the court and driving her VW convertible down Westport Drive. Today at the service, her children gave a stirring remembrance of her which made us all want to cry & laugh. What a fine family Mary Jo & Jim have but then I wouldn't have expected anything less. Bill & I wish to express our sympathy to all of Mary Jo & Jim's family & friends. She will forever be part of our Gulf Harbour family. As the gentle Gulf breezes through Gulf Harbour so will her memory. (Marianne & Bill Crouch)
To Jim & Mary Jo's family,
The memorial service dedicated to Mary Jo was expressed so beautifully by her children, the music provided and the church. Thank you for sharing your memories. You exhibited the humor, grace and style that befit our friend. I know she is full of love and pride for all of you. She will hold a place in our hearts too (Roy & Valerie Steigerwald)
Mary Jo was a dear friend and neighbor, whom we will miss very much (Rich and Marilyn Meyers)
Mary Jo was a lovely, lovely person who always had a smile for you. I am glad I had the opportunity to know Mary Jo and play tennis with her. She will be sadly missed by all the people whose lives she touched (Judy Manzella)
She walked in with a smile and a hello every time I saw her. She was so encouraging to myself and others who were getting started a little late in the tennis world. Not only was she a great inspiration at tennis she was a wonderful neighbor. She will be missed as a friend, neighbor and tennis pal. I hope they have clay courts in heaven because I know I will join her on those courts at a later date! Mary Jo will be missed by so many and especially me! (Sally Mellendorf)
I was extremely shocked to hear of Mary Jo's death. Mary Jo introduced me in 2005 into the tennis social around the pool....we became friends fast, she was such a delightful person--- so full of life, and so kind. I shall miss her terribly, as someone whom no one can quite replace. In aufrichtigem Mitgefuehl, (Mika)
Mary Jo was my friend and always so nice to play tennis with. She was nice and complimentary to me on the tennis court--encouraged me to do better. When she was my partner, she never got upset if I missed a ball or lost the point. She was just such a lovely person; I will really miss her. (Melanie Jackman)
Mary Jo was an inspiration to us all! Her warm smile and easy going personality will certainly be missed. She was a very special lady! (Joan Palermo)
We knew Jim and Mary Jo when they lived in Sanibel. They were members of the Sanibel-Captiva Sail and Power Squadron when Bob was commander. Whenever asked, they would always help out. They even volunteered to be "bar tenders" one season -- talk about troopers!!! (Marilyn McCormick)
We were new to the club this year and Mary Jo and Jim were individuals who graciously welcomed us. Mary Jo took the time to talk after the round robin offering to get together at a later time. She was so kind and thoughtful making us feel part of the Gulf Harbour Tennis community! It's hard to believe we will not be seeing her at the courts this year, a real loss to our community. (Beth & Bud Haidet)
We attended a most beautiful Memorial Service today for our fellow tennis mate Mary Jo Hynden. The Rev John Danner presided over the service at Sanibel Congregational Church and led the prayers & readings. One in particular stood out as one of Mary Jo's favorite from Ecclesiastes 3, "To everything there is a season and a time for every purpose under heaven." Mary Jo had many a purpose in her 78 years here on this earth. Mary Jo was a very well educated woman, passionate about reading, the arts and travel. She was a dedicated tennis player, a patient and giving person, a caring mother and a loving wife to Jim for 55 years.
Many stories and anecdotes were told to the congregation by Mary Jo and Jim's children, Doug, Eric and Amy. Our Gulf Harbour resident Lynn Malkani performed a moving piece on the violin, "Meditation" from "Thais" and soprano Ann Marie Babos sang "Come Unto Me" and "The Lord's Prayer" which sent chills throughout the congregation. Mary Jo certainly would have approved of the Celebration and Thanksgiving which took place today and surely she was looking down on Jim, their children and their spouses, 8 grandchildren and many, many friends with a sweet smile. Mary Jo will be missed on the courts of Gulf Harbour (Rick & Meg Jacobs)
She had an easy grace, a gentle manner that put one at ease. She spoke her mind, but in a fashion free of offense. She listened in her quiet way and brought people together on court and off. As I think of Mary Jo, I think of an understated a joy of life, I think of her at my side on court 8 on a Saturday morning, doing what she loved. I think of the women she brought together on Wednesday morning to enjoy the game they loved. I can only be glad that I had a few moments to share with a special being who refused to let the ravages of age destroy her quiet yet youthful exuberance. Mary Jo you will be missed! (T. A.)
Thanks to all who took a moment to remember and honor Mary Jo in this memorial. I am sure she would be pleased.
