I woke up this morning to find that Grace, the love of my life, my partner, lover, best friend and more, had passed away during the night. I had no warning at all; she had been having some health issues but nothing that suggested that she was in mortal peril.
We were married for 43 years.
I had a scheduled legal ethics seminar, and, of course, taught it as planned. After all, it was about professionalism.
I may write some more about this, depending on how I feel as the day goes on.

I’m so sorry, Jack. I only met her once, briefly, when you were out walking your Jack Russell together. But I could see the bond between you, which also came through in your writing.
R.I.P.
Dear Jack: I was so saddened to hear about Grace. I have so many warm memories. Your trips to Russia. Her love. So many years. Please take time to touch your feelings. You have so many friends who want to give you support. Now is the time to allow others to help. I know it’s been years, but I’m here for you, and send love and healing and peace.
Risa
Jack, I hope that some of the goodness that you spread in the World finds its way back to strengthen you in this difficult time.
She looks so lovely in that photo. While I can’t fathom your loss, I think that she passed as she would have wanted, being very close to you until the end.
I am so sorry for your loss, Jack. Your love, respect and admiration for her came through every time you wrote of her.
Jack,
Extremely sad news. Your honesty, wit and insight have been a blessing to me. I hope that our prayers and thoughts can be a blessing to you,
mark
Dear Jack. I am so sorry for your loss. May she rest in peace. Please accept our deepest and sincerest condolences.
jvb
Deepest condolences. May God grant you comfort.
My condolences, Jack. I lost my Aunt two years ago under similar circumstances. My uncle said she had a mild stomach ache, went to lie down, and never awoke. It was a punch in the gut thrn, and I felt very similarly reading the headline about Grace. I’ve of course never met her, but she’s sounded lovely from your various posts the past many years.
With heartfelt condolences, Jack, you have my thoughts and prayers as well.
(I’m still around, lurking, reading almost every post… a habit that’s gotten me through some dark times. Thank you again for all you do here.)
This news come as a surprise not just that your wife passed so abruptly but that I feel such a sadness for you–someone I’ve never met but who feels more like a good friend than many I count as friends. You have become part of my daily routine as I follow your wisdom and perceptive observations of life. My deepest condolences to you and your son. These are dark days and I sincerely hope that you will eventually find comfort in the memories you shared with your wife.
My deepest condolences Jack. I am at a loss to say anything more than that. I deeply value your blog, am grateful. You’re a great man and I am saddened to hear this news.
Damn, Jack. Every time you mentioned her, I could tell how much you loved her. I’m so sorry for your loss.
I’m so sorry, Jack. From your posts she seemed like a lovely and talented woman. My condolences to you,
Ah, hell.
There are no words, so I won’t try. Please take care of yourself, and your son.
Best,
Neil
Dear Jack,
While I haven’t commented on the EA for some time, I still read your posts each day and look forward to learning things I might otherwise miss by relying solely on more traditional media outlets. But Thursday was different. I am so sorry for your loss and will be praying for your strength to deal with the new reality in the coming days and months.
J. E. Houghton
My thoughts are with you, Jack, and my heartfelt condolences.
Your blog has been a lifeline and a comfort to me, more than I can possibly say over these many years. I wish you, your son, and Spuds the best as you try to cope.
Words fail me, Jack.
My deepest condolences and sympathies to you. The world is less than it was, and we all suffer for the loss – none more than you.
I hope that you have the opportunity to take the time you’ll need to recover from this. Over the years, you’ve put so much into this blog, and while it doesn’t fully get the attention it deserves, it is appreciated. It’s also brought together this group of people, most of whom consider you a friend.
I hope that as you begin the process of recovering, you’ll keep us informed of you’re doing, and if there’s any way we can help you. We care for you. Take care of yourself, please? You’ll be in my prayers, my friend.
my deepest condolences Jack
After having read you near daily for many, many years I feel as if a good friend had shared this news with me. Your love and family has shown through your writing over the years. My heart breaks for you.
May she rest in peace, and may you be surrounded by love and strength.
Tracy
Jack, I am so sorry for your loss.
May God bless Grace’s soul and welcome her into the company of His angels.
You and your son are in my prayers.