memorial

our dear, sweet Grandy passed away last week. a day or so before he died, mom noticed him laboring in his breath and asked if he was tired. he said, "more tired than you can know." and then, as perfectly and peacefully as anyone can, he left his weary body to be resurrected when Christ's glory is at last revealed. and Grandy is now experiencing real life, as it was always meant to be - in the presence of God, with myriads upon myriads of angels and heavenly hosts, and with every beloved soul He has cherished in His love.

the graveside service was attended by the military, as Grandy was in WWII. they saluted. they folded the flag. they played Taps. it was one the most beautiful things I have ever seen. and there was not a dry eye. we love Grandy, and were thankful to have such a service of honor performed for him.

we did indeed mourn. it makes our hearts sad to not have him present with us. but we also rejoiced, knowing that he is rejoicing as he has never before done. his body of sin has left him, and Grandy is able now to feel love and joy and comfort without the ugly weight. he is no longer a shadow, but more alive now that he ever was.

santa cruz memorial is exceptionally beautiful...at least for a surfer town. joe enjoyed the numerous photo opportunities, and thankfully captured the beautiful service as well. mom and i also got to place flowers on my grandma's grave, who passed away six years ago now.

after the service, we went to church and partied. we threw a party that Grandy would have wanted to come to. big band music, pimento cheese sandwhiches, chips and dips, canteloupe and ice cream, pinwheels. we all chipped in to make it special, and it was.

we love you, Grandy. we cannot wait to join your Party.

mom, joanna and jessica (my sweet sisters), and cousin amanda

bro's in law: sean (ahem...w/ jess's purse) and paul. yes, sean got teased...plenty.

uncle "bad" (we missed you, auntie bev!)

uncle brad with the officers

joanna (husband in background) w/ their second son, kris

dad with naval officer

we picked yellow roses, 'cuz Grandy married his "yellow rose of Texas"

folding the flag

"by order of the President of the United States, we present this flag..."