Avoir Mon Cher Oncle

One of the dearest, most amazing, magical, beautiful people I have ever known passed away today after a nine-month struggle with cancer. Alvin Taylor, my uncle—or as he preferred to be called “Mon Cher Oncle”—was 58.

Alvin loved France! He was a walking wikipedia when it came to France and her history. You could plunk him in front of any French monument and he knew its intimate details and recounted them in a deeply fascinating way. He loved a good palace intrigue; he had all of the French kings, queens and their lovers memorized. Alvin was more than well-versed in French literature. He loved the great classics. He adored French films, and never ceased to tell me what I should go and see at the cinema! Alvin loved a lazy summer afternoon lunch on a terrace in the French countryside. He loved French people and was never shy about using his French—which was quite good—to speak about the most sophisticated topics.

Everyone who met Alvin adored him—instantly! He is the only person I know who had no enemies. Everyone loved him and I mean, everyone.

Alvin brought more joy, love, and happiness to people in this world than is imaginable. He only had kind words for people and was always there when you needed him. I can only imagine how many of us are devastated tonight. My heart goes out to you all.

Bon voyage, Mon Cher Oncle. We have a beautiful lunch in the French countryside planned in your honor this Sunday.

Love, love, love,

Ta chere niece, Charley