Ronda Thompson

Wow. I learned Saturday that my friend Ronda is gone. Died ten days after being diagnosed with cancer. Tall, always grinning, vibrant Ronda. A friend, a fellow writer, and a damn cool Texan. I feel so bad for her husband Mike - she and I and my husband Lonnie gambled and partied together in Reno and they were such a cute couple. And her daughter Marley. And her son... and us all. What a loss. I was so upset that I couldn't go back to the RWA conference for the Rita ceremony.

Ronda with her panic attacks. Her heart as big as the Lone Star state. Every time I'd see her, she'd give me a hug. An amazing woman, a great friend, a terrific writer. Dead at only 51 years old.

I don't know if it was the smoking or not. My uncle Alex always used to say "When your number's called, you go." I guess it was her time to go. But she'll be missed by many. Especially this introverted writer who needed every big-hearted friend who came her way.

God bless, Ronda. I'll miss you.