Lisa, sorry to learn about your mother-in-law's passing. Even when you realize it's time for someone to go, it's hard to lose them. 
My sister's Halloween party co-founder passed away last week, and his funeral was the same day as the party. Bobby was a musician, singer, dancer and a lifelong performer. We knew he would insist that the "show must go on," so we had the party like we knew he would have wanted. But, it was especially hard for my sister. They had concocted this idea for a community-wide party idea 20 years ago and only took a break during COVID.
When I left to go back home, I had 6 ducks. When I went to put them away last night, there were 5. I texted the pet sitter who said she was "pretty sure" all 6 were in their houses Saturday night. I am always CERTAIN to make sure everybody gets put away. 
My runners can't fly and rarely break from the flock, unlike my silly chickens. I looked everywhere yesterday afternoon and went out again after dark with my night vision head lamp to search. I tried again with the head lamp this morning, although I didn't really expect to find her.
There is no trace of Drew, so it must have been a predator -- but what? A ground attacker or aerial (both hawks and bald eagles around here)? A red tail flew over yesterday, but I just got a hint of a more likely culprit.
I had not heard coyote singing for weeks. But, just a few minutes ago I heard a solo, then a second singer. I ran out, yelled and clapped to let them know that I'm home, and their party is over. 
This is why it's hard for me to go places. I'm always worried that something will happen to my critters, and this time it has. Although it could have happened ever if I was here, I feel guilty that I wasn't here to protect her.