Three Years Ago Today

Tuesday – December 2, 2008


“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.” II Timothy 4: 7-8


Three years ago today was a cold and dismal day. The family was all together at Mom and Dad’s. They were surrounded by their four children, their daughters-in-law, and some of their grandchildren. Some were not with us at that time due to working and taking care of the great-grandchildren. We knew the time was getting closer for Dad’s time to go to his heavenly home.

We had been vigil in sitting beside his bed since Tuesday night and now it was Friday morning. Mom and the boys were with Dad when he took his last breath. But I wasn’t – and how much I regret that. My sciatic nerve had caused me so much pain the last two weeks that the time had come for me to break down and go to the doctor. I did not want to leave, but I knew I would be of no help to the family if I didn’t get myself back in shape. Bill came in from school to take me to the doctor.

Before we made it to the doctor’s office, Rhonda called the cell phone and wanted to talk to Bill. I handed him the phone, but I knew what the call was about. Dad had gone home.

It was so hard to let him go. Rhonda assured me that Dad would still be at the house so that I could say my good-byes. Dad had left this earthly world to go on to “heaven’s bright shore.” We all knew that Dad would no longer be in the excruciating pain he had endured for many years. He never complained, but we knew from his actions as to how much pain he was experiencing.

One of his main concerns was for Mom. He knew his four children had a spouse that would be a big support to them. He worried about Mom and how she would cope with him leaving. He knew we would take care of her, but still, he worried. Mom and Dad had a talk – one of their last – Tuesday. Dad told Mom he thought it would be best for him to go home. It was almost as if a gentle peace came over him once they had their little talk. He was ready to go home. He was leaving it all in the Lord’s hands as to when he would leave and join his heavenly family. On Friday morning, Dad went peacefully home surrounded by loved ones.

We all miss Dad very much. Family and friends alike continuously tell “Papaw” stories. In a way, this makes us feel as if he is still here with us. He is with us in spirit and always will be! We know he is no longer in pain. A little over four months ago, one of his precious children joined him – John. As a family we all miss them both. Our days are saddened because we miss them so much, but at the same time we know they are together and some day we will be able to be with them again.

There are so many songs that seem to be a comfort to us when we lose a lost one. The one that has helped me a great deal is called “Safely Home.” It is sung by Steve Green. I would like to share the lyrics with you.

“Safely Home”

Children, precious children I Know you're shaken,
A loved one taken.
Oh but hear me.
Come, draw near me.
Their pain is passed now.
They rest at last now, safely home.

They are strong and free.
They are safe with me.

This life is nearly shadow.
Today there's sorrow, but joy tomorrow.
Safely home.
Safely home.

One day you will join them, all together, this time forever, safely home.
Safely home.

A young Dad (Before he was in the army - hair is not parted on the side!):


Dad is in the army now:


Dad and Papaw up at the home place:


Dad loved talking on his "ham" radio (K8LNM):


Dad with his three boys - Mike, Dad, Dink, and John (Dink's wedding day):


Dad and the love of his life at Beech Fork, Christmas, 2004: