Hi R0za,
I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. As to the plant that is losing it's lower leaves, it would be difficult to say the cause without knowing which plant it is. Some plants lose their bottom leaves as they grow and develop. The two most common reasons, other than the nature of the plant, would be over watering or a plant that is rootbound. Over watered plants usually have their leaves turn brown before dropping and rootbound ones usually turn yellow before dropping. Other causes could be some type of pest.
Take a look at these pictures and see if you can id the plant. You can click on the pictures to get a larger view. Once you know the name, get back to me and I'll see if I can help. I don't mind at all! :D
http://www.greenscene.ie/Live.htm
http://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/i...leryindex.html
Newt