I'm sorry for your loss, bro. Big hugs!

The healing process is a bit different for all of us. And it's affected by our perspective of the world as well as our relationship with the loved one.

Dad died young, at 53. It felt like suddenly I was the man, and I wasn't ready. I was just a kid (29). He was such a rock - solid, unwavering and firm. I took him for granted back then, and even resented him. Now, each year I miss him more, and wish I had that rock to lean on at times.
It doesn't go away. It just matures. After 23 years without him, I think I love and miss him more than ever. But the raw pain isn't there now. Instead, it's a wistfulness along with a desire to honor him in who I am and in my remembrance of him.

Our legacies live on in our progeny and the lives we touch. Who is blessed today because of who my parents are/were? Who will my kids bless? May the blessing never end.

Your mama had much to be proud of. We're blessed by her for knowing you.