Helen (Nell) Kincaid Bryan, after having thoroughly enjoyed the most beautiful month of October she could remember, died on Oct. 27, 2013 at her home on Martha’s Vineyard. She was 84.

She had a way of keeping life breathtakingly real. Her passage was no different. Her grace, wit and intelligence lit the way for what we all imagine to be the beginning of something even greater than the life she left behind. Her husband Gray, who predeceased her by 10 months, was surely there to greet her.

Witnessing Nell’s relationships with friends, family, church and nature in Brazil, New Jersey and the Vineyard, one learned that none of these things evolve without honesty, perseverance and vision. And that no relationship survives without forgiveness, loyalty, and love — all of which you need strength of character to handle. The person she was is a direct result of these core values.

Our sorrow lies largely in knowing that as much as we hope Nell understood how much she was loved, admired and respected, she probably didn’t. Not because we didn’t convey it, but because a person like Nell doesn’t live life to be recognized for her strengths. They live their lives to help us recognize the strengths in ourselves.

Her children, her grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and her great-grandson Jackson look forward to sharing a memorial service at St. Andrew’s Church in late June 2014. An announcement will be printed as the time draws near. For now, lift your eyes up, take a deep breath and believe that her love and belief in you is more real now than ever. Consider this the extra dose of courage you were looking for to take the next step forward.

“In life, it all works out” was her famous quote. “Let’s get on with it” was the other. Peace be with you.