09/27/2020
Today I pay tribute to my parents.
Mom and Dad
Even though you were not my biological parents, you chose to make me your only son by adoption over 5 decades ago.
Last Wednesday, mom your pain ended as you passed into the place where you now have been made perfect. I always told you, you would make it.
Dad, I know you couldn't, after 67 years of marriage, live without her, so I understand that by Friday night why you joined her in Heaven.
You taught me that when people ask about my experiences and blessing to just say..."It is because of Jesus.”
Today I want to honor you by adding that Jesus used both of you to make me the man, husband, father and friend that I am.
Everything I have and everything I am is because of your faithfulness to God.
Dad you taught me deeply about the gift of service as I watched you serve our nation as a career army veteran serving in three wars. Later as a postal carrier, the bag was heavy and your hips were hurting but you never missed a day of delivering the mail.
As a child mom you showed me what the love of God really is. You took me in and worked two jobs sacrificing yourself to make sure my needs were always met. And I will miss your steadfast words most..."Raymond, know that I have always loved you."
Both of you demonstrated the value of hard work and each day your lessons motivate me to serve others.
There is so much more to say and wonderful memories about you that I will forever cherish in my heart, but for me the most appropriate words today are these....
THANK YOU MOM & DAD FOR ALLOWING ME TO BE YOUR SON.
Rest with the angels and the God that you have loved and served. The God who has become my God.
I love you and will see you again soon.
Your Son,
Raymond
