Mary: My mother and I were very close. People always told me I looked like her. Every time I answered the phone, people would think I was her because we sounded so much alike. Losing my mother was one of the hardest things I’ve ever gone through. She taught me how to play the piano and introduced me to a wide range of music including classical, jazz, gospel, and Broadway musicals.

When I was a child we would listen to records together for hours. When I hear certain songs, memories of my mother come rushing back to me. Music holds the precious memories of our life together. I can’t think of anything more powerful than music. That’s why I decided to leave a gift in my will to Oakland Symphony to honor my mother.

I have left a large percentage of my estate to Oakland Symphony in my will. I haven't put any restrictions on how they use my gift. I trust them to use it as they see fit. It gives me great satisfaction knowing that this gift will keep Oakland Symphony playing, and knowing they will honor my mother forever through this wonderful artform.