Grandpa, today you went to be with Jesus. Even your last words, “I’m going home,” celebrate the anticipation of being with Him. I rejoice knowing that you are at peace in your new body, not having to wrestle your deteriorating one any longer, and that you now live in the full revelation of Love, Life, and Truth. Still, I will miss you. I will miss your raspy Marlon Brando voice and your tributes to the meaning or purpose of family. I will miss the stories of imaginative bears and squirrels that you tell the boys. I will miss your jokes and ability to make people laugh, even in the most serious circumstances. But, I will remember too. I will remember you taking me out dancing as a little girl. I will remember the pizza pie, miniature slot machines, and your love for New York City. I will remember the big blue recliner — “grandpa’s chair.” I will remember the endless supply of drawing paper and National Geographic. I will remember “God-doogee” and other grandpa-isms. I will remember the bowls of candies and treats, and that you never let us leave your house without taking something with us. I will remember the way that you would tease us with stories of the boogie man, but always let us know how proud you were of us. I will remember you, Grandpa. I love you.
Comments
just read this today, bethany, and wanted to say how sweetly you communicate this strange truth that when a person dies, the world that was in them goes with them, and this makes us sad; some would say that a world is lost, but what I love about the hopefulness you seem to lean into here (and in all things) is that you’re clear: new worlds are opening in jesus.
this is great. you have many stories to write. that’s a good thing. that’s a gift.
Our prayers are with you and your family during this time. Your Grandpa was a very special man. I am so blessed to have gotten to know him. He will be missed.
i am so sorry for your Grandpa’s passing, b. we are thinking and praying for you and your family. love you, rachel
What a rich life–to hear the laughter of your children’s children’s children. Joy inexpressible and full of glory. And on to the next. What a promise.
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Ditto Angie. We’re praying for you and your family.
oh bethany, what a beautiful tribute to your precious grandfather. rejoicing with you, that he is with our Lord, and praying for you as i know that you will miss him dearly. love you.
Bethany, my prays and love go out to you and your family. What precious memories you have of your Grandpa.