Mary Lincoln and Jackie Kennedy

[L Verge]

I have been reading James Swanson's End of Days and just had myself another good cry as he recalled the dignity of the funeral. I had never read the words that Senator Mike Mansfield spoke about the fact that Jackie took off her wedding ring at Parkland Hospital and put it on her husband's hand. As I read it, I understood why JFK's loss affected so many of us. I also never realized that, upon leaving Arlington Cemetery, Mrs. Kennedy asked to be taken past the Lincoln Memorial - where her limousine stopped and allowed her to gaze up at that magnificent shrine.

Mary Lincoln was of a different time and a different temperament. She could never have endured the pomp and circumstance of her husband's funeral. I do think, however, that she knew her limitations and by not participating ensured that he would have a proper ceremony.