History

Spirit Quilts was officially founded by JayaMae Gregory on July 1, 2008. This is Jaya's story:

On May 7, 2008, a very special uncle of mine lost his courageous battle with cancer. Before his passing, I had decided I wanted to give him a gift that would show him just how much he was loved. My uncle had touched me in so many ways, and I finally had the opportunity to give back just a fraction of what he had given me.

I, therefore, began my first quilt. I had never made a quilt before...but with a little help from a stranger (thank you, Betsy!), my first quilt was constructed. I included family photos, hand prints, and inspiring words on the quilt blocks. On the back, I wrote a message and included a couple of verses. The quilt was complete when I tied knots between each square, praying for my uncle. Thus, those ties came to represent prayers.

When I presented the quilt to my uncle, he cried. I was shocked that he was so moved by my simple act of kindness, especially because I, personally, had gained so much in making the quilt. I was humbled, seeing first hand how God works. I never thought one simple gift could so change a person's life. I believe that I gained just as much in giving that quilt to my uncle as he did in receiving it, but because of the impact it made on my uncle, I decided I could not stop making quilts. I knew that one quilt was not going to be my last...