She said, my son, I beg of you 
I have a wish that must come true 
The last thing you can do for Mama 
Please promise me that you will stay 
And take my place while I'm away 
And give the children love each day 
I had to cry, what could I say 
How hard I tried to find a word 
I prayed she would not see me cry 
So much to say that should be heard 
But only time to say goodbye to Mama 
They say in time that you forget 
Yet still today, my eyes are wet 
I tell myself to smile for Mama 
Now soon there'll be another spring 
And I will start remembering 
The way she loved to hear us sing 
Her favorite song, Ave Maria 
Ave Maria 
The children have all grown up now 
I kept my promise to Mama 
I cannot guide them anymore 
I've done my best, all for Mama 
Ave Maria 
Still it seems so very small 
For all she did for me