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WILLIAM BATH Memoriam
This obituary was originally published in the Richmond Times-Dispatch.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Angela Justiniano
September 1, 2021
Sept. 1, 2021
A few weeks ago I made a post about not knowing how my dad worked outside in the heat everyday. Today on what marks 12 years since he passed, I was reminded of two things. The way he'd always tell me “it could always be worse" and of his sense of humor. While working outside the sky opened up and it started to pour. Needless to say, I got soaked and I mean soaked (it's been a few hours and I'm still wet). I got the message dad, I'll take a little heat over working in wet clothes any day.
4,380 days without you and the loss is still felt DAILY. I don’t own, nor will I ever something that I wouldn’t trade for just a few more minutes with you.
I hope on days like Sunday, when I’m showing Olivia your pictures and trying to teach her the word “papa” that God allows you to look down. You are missed and loved oh so much.
#gonebutnevereverforgotten
Angela Justiniano
September 1, 2021
Sept. 1, 2020
4,018 days without you and not a single one of them have gone by and I not thought of you. I hope you can somehow sense how much you are loved and missed. How every happy occasion can’t just be that because it is and will always be missing something (you).
What I wouldn’t give for just one more day.
I love you and miss you, Pops. ❤
Angela Justiniano
September 1, 2021
My friend Kisha read your guest book yesterday and called me to let me know that I haven't added anything out here since 2015. I guess Facebook has become my sounding board. I thought I'd add a few of my posts from there.
Sept. 1, 2016
Seven years ago today, I watched you as you took your last breathe. I will never forget that moment and the many emotions that I felt instantly. I was "relieved" that you were no longer suffering, "grateful" that I was able to be there by your side, "blessed" to have had the type of relationship that we had, and "angry" that you were being taken away from me (from us).
Before you passed I use to think that time could heal anything. I now know that it's can't. There are some pains so great that we carry them with us forever and the loss of you is one of them for me. I will never get use to you not being here and I will never not miss seeing your face or hearing your voice.
Thank you for being so much apart of me that I will forever be heartbroken. Although I pray God gives me many more years here on earth with Ruben, the boys, and our families, I also look forward to the day that we are reunited.
I love you and miss you.
#foreveradaddysgirl
Shirley Bath
November 20, 2016
I still miss you and love you so very much. Life goes on and so does the heartache. Time seems to go by so quickly. Sean is 19 and has a charming girlfriend, Quinn; Alex (18) is attending VCU and considering neurology; Kamren and Christian are 11 and in their first year of middle school; and Elijah is 8 and in the 2nd grade. Ashley and Mike are still living in Blacksburg. Amanda and Austin live in Richmond. You would like their boyfriends so much. They treat our granddaughters good and they are decent young men. Our grandchildren are so precious and you would still be proud of our daughters and son-in-law. We have been so blessed by such a loving family. Just wish you were still here to enjoy them. My mom is 91 and your mother is just a few years behind. My brothers and your brother are hanging in there with the rest of us as we all get older.
Continue to watch over us until we all meet again. Loving you forever, Shirley
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Angela Justiniano
November 10, 2015
Happy Birthday Pops. I hope that today you are in heaven celebrating to the fullest. I love you and miss you more than I can ever explain. Looking forward to the day when I get to see you again.
Love,
Monkey
Angela Justiniano
September 1, 2015
On this day six years ago, I held your hand as you received your wings. It was to this day the hardest day of my life. So many people have told me that with time, all wounds heal. I have come to know that that is not true. Some are carried with us always. Within them there is pain, as I long to see your face and hear the sound of your voice. Yet there is also joy. Joy because I am reminded that there can only be great pain when you experience a great loss.
Although today and the days leading up to it have brought on so much sadness as I cannot stop my mind from replaying the events of your last days, I am also thankful. Thankful for the love that I always felt (You measured the value of what you had not by the size of your house, the material possession that you had or the balance in your savings account, but in the relationships you had and in that you took pride). Thankful for the many lessons that you taught me (those that were intentional and those that weren't). Thankful that I was there when God called you home. Thankful that you were so much a part of my life, that you took a part of me with you when you left.
My heartaches for my boys and the many wonderful memories they will miss out on by not having you in their lives. I pray that I do a good job of passing on the values and lessons that you taught me.
I love you and miss you pops.
Angela Justiniano
August 31, 2015
Facebook post from August 21, 2015:
In 12 days it will mark the 6 yr anniversary of your passing...most days I am ok and then there are days like today were I have to pull over on my way home from work to get myself together...what I wouldn't give for just one more day with you. I love you and miss you pops.
Angie Justiniano
May 11, 2015
Pops,
It has been a while since I've written on here. I just wanted to tell you that I love you, I miss you and I think of you daily.
Love,
Monkey
Angela Justiniano
July 29, 2014
Pops,
Sunday was my 34th birthday. We met at Nannie's house for a cookout (like always). Mom forgot to give me my birthday card and dropped it off at Jena's for me to pick up Monday morning, a long with Christian since he had spent the night there. I always hold my breath as I open her cards. I don't think I'll ever get use to not seeing your name signed inside. I love you and miss you so very, very much.
Love,
Monkey
Angela Justiniano
June 17, 2014
Happy Father's Day to the two most amazing father's I know..
My dad, who is no longer physically here but whose presence I always feel..you will forever be my hero. Thank you for everything! It is and has always been an honor to be your daughter. I love you and miss you so very, very much.
And to my husband and father of my boys. ..how did we ever get so lucky? I couldn't ask for a better fathe...r for my boys than you. Thank you for always striving to do what you thought was best, even at times when you figured out later on it wasn't, you have always had the best of intentions. Thank you for being there for them, loving them, and guiding them. We love you and appreciate you more than you will ever know. Happy Father's Day!!
Angela Justiniano
February 26, 2014
Yesterday was Alex's 16th birthday, which made me replay in my mind memories I have of him over the years. Of course I could't help but think of the memories that included you. I still remember the first time you put him on the tractor and he screamed murder...you quickly turned the tractor around and brought him back to me as I stood on the porch watching telling me to "take this boy". It wasn't long before he quickly learned to love those rides. I remember walking into your room and seeing him sitting on the floor beside your bed waiting patiently for it to be his turn for a bite of buttered bread. I can still hear the sound of the harmonicas playing, as you two played together on the living room sofa. I can see you sitting on the porch sword in your hand hitting the one he held in his hand, as he danced around infront of you. I can still see you kneeling on the floor beside his toddler bed with a beer in your hand, as you listened to him trying to teach you how to play the game cube. Thank you for all of the wonderful memories I have of you and Alex.
I love you and miss you!
Monkey~
December 24, 2013
My 5th Christmas without you. I miss you so much. Some times I feel stronger, other times I feel the emotions and heartache stronger than before.
My last Christmas gift to you was a TV. Little did I know then that a few months later you would be diagnosed with a terminal cancer. I'm glad that you had the TV and cable (compliments of the girls and Keith)to keep you occupied during your illness.
I love you still and I'm thankful for the memories to hold on to until we are reunited.
Love, Shirley
September 3, 2013
After four years since you left us on 9-1-09, I miss you even more.
This past Sunday was very emotional....just not strong enough to hold back the tears.
My Sunday school lesson was about our most difficult trials in life and mine was your illness and death. Our worship service sermon included a story about a man on his death bed which brought back memories of your last days with us. It just all came on the wrong date for me to be strong.
I will continue loving and missing you until we meet again.
Love, Shirley
Angela Justiniano
September 1, 2013
(Facebook Post from today)
Four years ago today I lost the first man I ever loved, my dad, my hero, my best friend..oh how I miss our talks at the kitchen table and our texts just to say hi..there isn't a day that goes by that I don't think of you and wish you were s...till here..thank you for everything you ever did for me and as funny as it may sound everything you countine to do for me as I always get your messages at exactly the right times...I love you and I look forward to the day when I get to see you again..love you always and forever. RIP Pops
Monkey~
July 12, 2013
Forty-five years ago today, I married the love of my life. I promised that I would love you until death parted us but my love still continues. My heart throbbed with love for you when you were here and now it aches from missing you.
I miss you so very much, and you are still the love of my life.
I am thankful to God for the memories and the dreams.
Love, Shirley
Angela Justiniano
July 12, 2013
Pops,
Happy what would have been your 45th wedding anniversary. Thank you so much for being an example of what love and marriage mean. I love you and miss you.
Love,
Monkey
David Bath
July 9, 2013
Rest in Peace cousin, and our sincere, belated, condolences to your family.
Do not stand at my grave and weep,
I am not there; I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow,
I am the diamond glints on snow,
I am the sun on ripened grain,
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning's hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circling flight.
I am the soft starlight at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry,
I am not there; I did not die.
--Mary Frye
Angie Bath
April 1, 2013
Pops,
In five days your baby girl will be getting married. The closer it's gotten to the date, the harder it's become. Just when I think I've cried all that I can cry the tears come again. I have no idea how I am going to make it through the day without you. I know you'll be watching, but that's just not the same. Thank you for always supporting and believing in us. We love you and miss you so very, very much.
Love,
Monkey
Shirley Bath
March 30, 2013
I know you will be looking down on us at the wedding but I miss you so very much and wish you could be here to give our daughter away. It will be a bittersweet day, and I pray that the joy will overcome the heartache of you not being with us. I love you still and always will. Shirley
Angela Bath
December 25, 2012
Pops,
Merry Christmas!! Every day without you is hard but holidays and special occasions are always harder. Your presences is missed more than you can imagine. I changed my profile picture on facebook today of you holding me up to put the star on top of the tree..I was probably five or six years old. I love looking back on pictures of us together and thinking back on all the wonderful memories I have of times spent with you. It's those memories that keeps me from going insane at times. I love you and miss you so very, very much.
Love,
Monkey
December 24, 2012
William, another Christmas without you....our fourth. Is it getting easer? At times, I feel that it is but so often it feels even worse. The tears still come throughout the days and nights whether I'm reminded of a memory or just want you here to talk to or to have you hold me. A part of my heart can never be repaired, and reality doesn't stop me from having the desire to have you back. Oh how much easier death would be to accept if we could have just a short time every so often to spend with those we continue to grieve over.
Until we meet again, I'll continue to miss you and love you, Shirley
Angela Bath
October 27, 2012
Pops,
Today is Doobey's 4th Birthday. I know as we celebrate this day you will be there in spirit celebrating it with us, as you are for every occassion that we celebrate. I miss you and love you very much.
Love,
Monkey
Angela Bath
September 4, 2012
Facebook post from Sherry
I can't believe it's been 3 years since God called you home. We all miss you so very much. Thank you for all you taught me; thank you for showing me that strength in a person has nothing to do with a physical attribute; thank you for showing me that hard work and your word mean something. Thanking God for being able to love you & be loved by you...thanking God for my daddy. Anyone who knows any of us, knows you were a great man and that was evident by the full room of people who were with you the minute God called you home! I love & miss you daddy! Love, Buddha
Angela Bath
September 4, 2012
Facebook post
3 years ago today God called you home. I miss you more & more with everyday that passes. My heart breaks thinking about the milestones to come in my life that you won't physically be here for but it rejoices in all of the wonderful memories I have of times spent together. There is not a day that goes by that I don't see or hear something that reminds me of you. Thank you for everything you did for me and everything you taught me. I couldn't possibly being to list them all. You were and will always be my hero. RIP Pops. I LOVE YOU!! Love, your baby girl Monkey~
Angela Bath
August 16, 2012
While driving home from crabtree falls I turned the radio on to 93.1 (the station I usually leave the radio on). I made a comment to Ruben jokingly saying how I was determined to get him to like country music oneday. He said "the only country songs I like are the ones that remind me of your dad"...as soon as he said that both smiled as Toby Keith's "As Good As I Once Was" came on. Oh how that songs remind me of you. I love listening to the radio and being taken back in time when certain songs come on seeing you sitting in your truck and singing along.
I love you and miss you.
Love,
Monkey
Angela Bath
July 31, 2012
Pops,
We leave tomorrow for a couple days for the beach. Needless to say I'm pretty excited. It'll be nice to get away from work for a few days and to spend some much needed quaility time with the boys. I know you would be proud of the fact that I'm taking a little break, seeing as how you always were reminding me to "slow down".
It's funny because although never in my life did I ever see you swim whenever I see a body of water I think of you and the stories you would tell of your love for water when you were a child(adventures that often got you in trouble). I share those stories with the boys, as I do many others.
Watch over us while we are gone and know that we will be thinking of you while we are there. I love you so very, very much and I miss you so very, very much.
Love always and forever,
Your baby girl-Monkey
Angela Bath
July 13, 2012
Pops,
I just wanted to stop in to let you know that I love you and miss you...two things that will never change. Please come visit me in my dreams sometimes.
Love,
Monkey
July 12, 2012
Forty-four years ago we were married on July 12. Little did we know on that day that we would remain married until death parted us. I love you more and more in spite of this separation, and I miss you more and more as time continues to go by. My heart still remains broken, and I realize now that it can only be repaired in Heaven. Until then, I'll use the memories to hang on to. Love, Shirley
Angela Bath
June 17, 2012
Pops,
It's hard to believe that this is the third Father's day since you've passed. It's still hard to walk passed the Father's Day card section in the stores. I remember spending a good twenty to thirty minutes every year reading through several cards until I found the one that was as close to perfect for you as I could get. I never did find one that explained just how much I love you and how truly grateful I was to have you as my father. I guess some things can never truly be explained with words.
I know you never really thought of yourself as much of a hero, but to me you were one as far back as I can remember and will always be. You taught me so many things, most of which you never realized and some of which I've just started to. I'm sure there will be more realizations to come the older I get.
I miss our daily conversations, as well as our texts. Whenever I make a steak with mushrooms, eat vanilla oreos, have pork-n-beans with buttered bread, pass a ford f-150, or see the boys walking around the house in their underwear I smile because I think of you (along with so many, many other things).
Thank you so much for being who you were, which has helped inspire me to be who I am. I couldn't have asked for a better father.
Happy Father's Day Pops. I love you and miss you.
Love,
Monkey
June 11, 2012
I have prayed so much for Keith's surgery tomorrow. I know that he wishes you were here to give him some encouraging words. Amanda's graduation is 6/13, and I know you'll be looking down on them both this week. We all miss you so much. Your words of wisdom were appreciated more than you ever knew and are still appreciated now.....it would just be so nice to hear them coming from you. Love you always, Shirley
Angie Bath
June 9, 2012
Pops,
While working tonight I got on the topic of "My Dad" with my co-worker Sherry. I showed her the pictures I have of you on facebook and the ones that I uploaded on here. It was as it always is so nice to share the wonderful memories I have of you with others. I love how I can talk to others and tell them about some of the quailities that made you so great and have them tell me that, that's where I must get it from. It always makes me smile. I love you and miss you.
Monkey
June 1, 2012
Last weekend was rather bittersweet with flashbacks to Memorial Day weekend thirty-three years ago when we moved into our home. I remember how excited you were to move out to the country where you could see more deer and less neighbors. Alot of years and alot of memories. Some days I do good and some days I can't seem to control my emotions. I miss you so very much. Of all the pains I've ever had, the heartache has definitely been the worst. Missing you always, Shirley
May 18, 2012
I had a wonderful Mother's Day………Sunday I visited mom then had a late dinner with the girls and all the grandchildren except Ashley. They prepared sailor sandwiches. We all sure miss you preparing them for us. I received 2 fig trees, an orchid, a rosezalea, and yard items for mother's day. I pray that I don't kill any of the plants especially since they all are rare for me to own.
Saturday, I went to Sean & Kamren's ball games. After Kamren's game, he & I were sitting on the bleachers waiting for Sean's game to start. I told him “I wish papa could be here to see how well you play.” He immediately looked at me seriously and said “he is here”. His look was as if he wondered why I didn't already know that. I told him that he was right and papa had a front row seat. He shook his head yes and smiled. The best part was that he didn't think for a second what his reply would be, it was instant. Sorry I didn't recognize that the way he did. People say that young children can relate better to spiritual life so be sure to communicate at least with our three youngest grandchildren, and send signs to all of the rest of us also.
Love and miss you still, Shirley
Angela Bath
May 12, 2012
Pops,
I emailed mom, Jena and Sherry yesterday to tell them that Christian finally has a lose tooth...and not just one but three...I was beginning to worry considering the fact that he will turn seven next month. As I chatted with mom on the phone later that day we imagined what you would have said had you been here to hear that news..."Ani't that something" was both of our first thought.
The night before I sent the email Christian asked me if it hurt when you had to have your teeth pulled out…Immediately my mind went back to my childhood as I told him not at all. I told him the story of how amazed I always was that your hands which appeared HUGE to me would fit in my mouth. I can remember wondering a few times if you had the right tooth or if you'd end up pulling more than one. I could hear your voice saying “Monkey, close your eyes and count to ten and I'll be done”. Often I would still be counting as you'd tell me to open my eyes it was over. I never believed you until I'd open my eyes and see my tooth in your hand, because I never felt a thing. I use to think that your hands were magic because how else would it not hurt when someone pulled out your tooth?
I love when I can tell the boys stories that involve you.
I love you and miss you.
Love,
Monkey
May 1, 2012
I should not have read Angie's last message because now I can't see clearly because of the tears. I had another quick dream this morning that someone broke into our house and you planned a way for us to get out & look for the person breaking in....reverse roles! I felt so safe with you. When I woke up, I listened for any sounds but didn't hear any. Today has been a very emotional day. I took mom to the doctor and on my way back to work, I couldn't turn left onto a few streets which put me turning onto Broad Street. A few blocks later I was at Shepherd and Broad Streets and the tears came. Then, memories came and more tears. When I got back to work, I heard "How Can I Live Without You" on the radio, so needless to say, the tears continued. Too many things at the same time. I miss you so much, and sometimes I feel as though I'm tired of missing you and want you back now to stop this continuous hurt.
Please visit me in my dreams as often as possible. I just want you to hold me. Love, Shirley
Angela Bath
May 1, 2012
Pops,
It's hard to believe that it's been 32 months today since you pasted. As I sit here in the ER working, I look in front of me at a woman who's here with her father who is not doing to well. I watch her and feel so many emotions because although I don't really know how she feels, I know how she feels. I remember the day all to well that you left us. I remember the feelings I had of not being able to breathe, the sadness, the emptiness, and the relief of knowing that you were finally at peace and out of pain. I still regret and will probably always regret not being able to listen to you as you tried so hard to give me what you knew would be the last piece of advice you would give. I just couldn't accept that, that would be it.
There have been times over the past 32 months were I've cried because I feel like I've forgotten what your voice sounds like. Thankfully though at the times I've needed to the most I can hear it in my mind as clear as if you were still hearing talking to me.
I've watched the video I made of you in the hospital just once. Although I love being able to see you and hear you talking, I love the wonderful memories I have of you in my heart/mind when you weren't so sick better. It's those memories that I love to share with people.
I pray all the time that when you look down your proud of the daughter you have and the person that I have become…the person that I'm trying hard to become.
I love you and miss you more than you will ever know.
Love,
Monkey
April 26, 2012
April has flown by. I had a dream about you a few weeks ago. I was inside and you were outside when you quietly motioned for me to come outside. I replied that I would be right there after I finished whatever I was doing. Before I could get out there, you came inside with a brown grocery bag & pointing into it for me to look, but the only thing I could see were some leaves and twigs. I woke up before I knew what you were trying to show me. Another dream, and again, you were healthy.
Ashley has been accepted to start the Vet Tech program at Va Western College this summer. Amanda ranks at the top 5% of her class. Sean & Kamren are playing baseball. I went on a field trip with Jena & Kamren to Richmond Zoo. I spent the last two nights with Alex, Christian, & Elijah since Ruben is working out of town and Angie had to work those nights. Really enjoyed them so much. I had them all to myself! Didn't have much time to spend with Angie though. Sherry & I are going to Amanda's play tomorrow night.
Well, you were right. I will keep myself busy with the grandchildren and daughters. What a blessing.
Unfortunately, there is time every day for tears of missing you so very much.
See you in another dream which I pray is soon. So much love for you forever.
Keith is scheduled for surgery in June. Please ask God for special prayers for him. I know you loved him as much as I still do. Love, Shirley
Angela Bath
April 25, 2012
Pops,
Mom's spent the night with the boys tonight for me since Ruben's working out of town and since I've moved to working 12 hour overnight shifts. I made dinner before I left the house since I know she usually eats out or eats a tv dinner and has since you passed. I went with "chicken cassarole". Trust me it was no were near as good as yours and I forgot the peas, but I hope she enjoyed it. It always makes me smile when I'm making something for dinner that I learned from you.
The boys were so excited to have her over and I know kept her busy. I wish so badly that you were still here to be apart of their lives. Christian still talks about you constantly and Doobey has learned that papa lives in the clouds and watches over him from above, which I know you do. Surprising how much they've grown isn't it?
I love you and Miss you!
Angela Bath
March 21, 2012
Pops,
I just wanted to tell you that I love you and miss you.
Love,
Monkey
March 9, 2012
Dream wee hours of the monring on 3-5-12: family members were standing around and stressing about something. I don't know where we were, what we were stressing about, or who we were stressing about. You came up to me, took me by my wrist and said we were going to get away for a few hours. You drove us to an amusement-type location where there were "highways" crossing over other "highways". They were lovely light blue and white with highway lines down the middle of each. When we got our ticket, the guy told us that we could take our time as no one else could enter our highway until after we let them know that we were leaving. These "highways" were like slides so we sat down on our highway and as we began to slide down, I saw a pool of water ahead and said "we're going to get wet"....you said nothing. The water went up to our waists and was refreshing. After that, there were smaller hills and curves to slide through. The water beneath the highways was absolutley beautiful....such a tranquil place, no noise, just beauty and peace. The alarm clock went off, and we didn't even get to the end of the ride.
Sean told me that he had a dream the morning before: Keith wouldn't allow him to ride the tractor so he went elsewhere near the drive way to sit and be sad....you appeared to him, and when he looked up to you he started having difficulty breathing because he had so much to tell you about what he wanted the two of you to do together that he could hardly speak or breathe.
His dream made me cry.
Christian told me yesterday that he had made a picture for you but Elijah had spilled juice on it. He said he would make you another one.
What a good week with you involved.
Love, Shirley
February 14, 2012
Another Valentine's Day without you....having to listen to love songs on the radio at work makes the day more difficult to get through. I miss you so very much. I just want you to hold me or if I could just have a dream of you holding me. I look at pictures of us together and try so hard to feel your arms around me. Whether it's Valentine's Day or not, you will always be the love of my heart. Shirley
Angie Bath
February 14, 2012
Just wanted to say Happy Valentine's Day to the first man I ever loved.
I love you and miss you pops.
Love,
Monkey
Angie Bath
February 9, 2012
Good Morning Pops,
2012 has been a whirlwind of emotions for me so far. Some good and some not so good. The past week I've spent almost every day in tears. I'm finding it harder and harder to deal with the fact that I can't just pick up the phone to hear your voice and your advice. Please come visit me in my dreams. I love you and miss you so very, very much.
Monkey
Daddy, Me, Moma, & MY brother Keith
Sherry Alston
January 31, 2012
Pops,
I know we talk every day, well I do and you listen, I really haven't stopped in to write anything. Just want you to know that I miss you more each passing day. I never really thought much about coming here and writing my thoughts, but as I randomly read through moma's or Angie's notes to you, they are nice reminders that I'm blessed beyond belief.
So blessed to have such wonderful parents and awesome sisters and a brother that I claim (even though I didn't want to claim him when I was young…I wouldn't trade him for anything now). It made me chuckle to see when Angie wrote…that you always had to leave the FINAL authority up to moma…drove us all crazy. I love reading the stories of so many wonderful memories that include you; I'm sorry I'm a slacker when it comes to writing them here.
Every time I see a deer cross my path or even in the yard, it kinda makes me think that, that is your way of saying, hey, I'm still here watching over you and slow down (if I'm driving and they cross my path).
I thank you for showing me how to be an independent “handy girl”…thanks to you, I have never been scared to change my own tires (and boy have I changed some tires), or replace a lock on a door, or use any kind of power tools (Lowe's remains one of my favorite stores!), how to shoot a gun…well many guns, my "street smarts", and how to “take up” for my family. So many things I could sit here and thank you for teaching me but the list would be longer than all the other entries combined.
Most of all, I thank you for picking the right lady who would be our moma…you found a real keeper! Thanks to both of ya'll for giving me a wonderful family, many lessons learned, and stability in knowing that I've never once, ever, had to question whether or not I was loved and supported...even when I messed up.
So, thanks Pops! Make sure my Tim's behave, give Aunt Chris a hug & kiss for me…Keep an eye on Ashley down in Blacksburg and this fall you'll have to keep watch over in Columbia, SC when Amanda goes off to college. Keep an eye on my lil sis…I'm SO PROUD of Jena , but I'm not sure I trust the guards to look out for her like I know you will. Oh yeah, and enjoy the view next Spring…I FINALLY will get to call Ruben my brother-in-law for REAL! I am so happy for Angie…she will be a beautiful bride! We will all miss having you physically there, but we know you'll have the best seat!
Love & Miss you,
Buddha
January 26, 2012
Sherry invited me to lunch on Jan. 17, saying that she had a coupon that expired that day....so since it involved food, I immediately accepted her invitation. When I got to TGIFriday's, she was waiting for me and talking to Ruben....said he was leaving as she was going in. He asked if he could join us for a while. When we all (including Ruben) placed our orders, I thought to myself, Ruben sure has an appetite if he just ate. Before we got our food, Ruben asked me for my blessings for him to propose to Angie. I had been holding those blessings for a long time and just wish you could have been there also. The last few days have brought on the tears - tears of joy for them (since she said yes) and tears of sadness since I can't share my feelings with you as her parent. Just knowing that her wedding will not include her father giving her away is heartbreaking but we all know that you will send down your blessings on that special day. Shirley
William Bath
January 24, 2012
Pops,
Its with a heavy heart that I have to write you this instead of being able to call you to tell you, but your baby girl is getting married. I have such mixed emotions about the chapters to come in my life because although I'm so very happy to be at this milestone and to be at this milestone with not only someone I love but someone who I know you loved and respected not having you here physically will be very diffcult for me(for us). I know you will be with me from start to finish in spirit and I'm sure you know that I will make you as much a part of my day as I possibly can. I love you so very, very much and I miss you so very, very much.
Love,
Monkey
January 17, 2012
Another year. I still miss you so much. Before I go to sleep each night, I look at pictures of us together and remember you holding me. This morning I was awake until after 2:30 a.m. Sometimes the tears last for a few moments, sometimes they continue until I fall asleep. Sometimes I turn the radio off at home because of the songs bringing out more tears. My heart aches without you here sharing so many things. I cannot substitute your role in our family and even though I thank God daily for my continued blessings, the emptiness of not having you here remains. Love, Shirley
Angela Bath
January 2, 2012
Pops,
I just wanted to tell you Happy New Year!! I wish you had been here to celebrate it with us, even though I was sleep as it came in :-) I love and miss you so very much.
Love,
Monkey
Angela Bath
December 25, 2011
Merry Christmas Pops,
I miss and will always miss seeing your face and hearing your voice, not only this time of year, but every day. I can't believe that this is the third Christmas that we've had without you. It does my heart good to think back on the holidays we had together...you holding us up when it was our year to put the star on the top of the tree, or your help with the many tasks mom would make us due before she'd get out of bed on Christmas morning (we would have never gotten her up as quick without you). I used my camcorder today for the first time since I did the video of you at the hospital before you passed...it was hard to think about that time but also commical as I thought about you telling me to get the camcorder out of your face because a book was suppose to come before a movie :-) You sure did get commical in your old age :-)
I miss and love you so much. Life will never be the same without you as a part of me will forever be missing. Until we meet again come visit me in my dreams.
Love you always and forever,
Your Baby Girl, Monkey
December 23, 2011
William, another Christmas without you. I continue to miss you so very much. There's still no warning for the emotional times....they're brought on by songs, pictures, words someone will say, driving into the drive way, walking into the house, looking at your truck or tractor.....and the list goes on. I wish you could hold me or tell me you love me. I miss that so very much. As more memories are created by our lovely daughters and precious grandchildren, I will continue loving you until we meet again.
Shirley
Angela Bath
December 19, 2011
Pops,
In 6 days it'll be Christmas..The 3rd one that we've had to spend without you. I wonder if the holidays ever get any easier but some how I doubt they do. I miss you SO much. Please continue to watch over us all. I love you.
Love,
Monkey
Angela Bath
December 14, 2011
Pops,
I just wanted to tell you that I love you and I miss you!!!
Love,
Monkey
Angie Bath
November 10, 2011
Happy Birthday to the best dad a girl could have...my dad...Thank you for everything you did for me, gave me & taught me...yes, even the opening my mail to make sure when DMV sent me something it wasnt a notice about my license being suspended or telling me to slow down when I didnt think my life at the time could get any slower (dont worry I finally understand what you meant)...I miss our nightly talks at the kitchen table from age 17-26...those talks were the main reason it took me so long to move away..I love you & miss you..I know your up there celebrating..keep a look out for our balloons later on today...RIP Pops...Happy Birthday!!!
Love,
Monkey
Angela Bath
November 1, 2011
Pops,
It's been 26 months today since I've seen your face or heard your voice. I miss you so very, very much. I talk about you all the time with mom, Ruben, the boys or complete strangers who happen to say or do something that makes me think of you. I love you and can't wait to see you again oneday.
Love,
Monkey
Angie Bath
October 2, 2011
Pops,
I love you and miss you very much. Thank you for being so much apart of my life that after 2 yrs I still think of you and talk to you every day.
Love,
Monkey
Sherry Alston
September 1, 2011
Thanking God for the life of one of the greatest men I’ve ever known. I had the pleasure of loving him and being loved by him; it was an honor and I’m proud to have called him daddy. I can’t believe it’s been 2 years since you were physically here with us Pop. I love you and miss you more with each passing day. ~ Buddha
William Christian Bath
August 31, 2011
Papa,
Mommy's helping me type since I'm not that good yet. She wanted me to tell you what I always tell her even though she tells me that you can hear me when I say it. "Mom, I sure wish papa was still here so I can tell him one more time how much I love him".
I love you and miss you. When I see you again one day I hope you can teach me how to hop from cloud to cloud.
Love,
Christian
Angela Bath
August 31, 2011
Pops,
I can't believe that today marks 2 years since you've been gone. It's no surprise that it's 12:22am(way passed my bed time) and I'm up not able to sleep. Hopefully, writing you will help. I can't tell you how much I miss you. Someone told me not long after you passed that the 2nd year would be harder than the first. Honestly, I didn't believe them. I thought the first year had to be the hardest but they've proven to be right. It's been two very long years since I've heard your voice, seen your face or hugged your neck. Every day that passes proves to be a challenge in some way without you.
Please con't to show me that you are still with me as you have been doing. I pray that when you look down on us we make you proud. I love you and miss you.
Love your baby girl,
Monkey
Angela Bath
August 19, 2011
Pops,
I can't believe that we are almost at the 2 yr mark of your passing...I know I've said this several times before but in some ways it doesn't seem like its been that long and it others it seems like its been so much longer...I miss hearing your voice and your hugs so much...Thank you for constantly reminding me that although I can't see you or touch you that you are still with me..I love you and miss you.
Monkey
Angela Bath
July 27, 2011
Pops,
I just wanted to tell you that I missed not getting a call from you today on my birthday...It was also hard to read mom's beautiful card knowing that when I got to the end it wouldn't be signed by you...I know you are wishing me a happy birthday from heaven though...I love you and miss you.
Monkey
Angela Bath
July 22, 2011
Pops,
Tonight we met at Jena's to celebrate the earning of her Master's degree..I know you were there but I wish you were physically..There is so much going on in my life at times I feel lost without you...I wish I could just pick up the phone and hear your voice along with the advice that always made me laugh because although there was a serious side to it there was also the first part that was funny which consisted of exactly what you knew I wanted to hear..Some how that always lightened the mood and made me calm down so I could take in the real advice you'd give which some how always made perfect sense...I keep the radio set to K95 or the 93.1 the wolf(your favorite) as it makes me feel closer to you..I love you & miss you so much..I look forward to seeing you again one day..In the mean time keep a watch out over us all (I know you will).
Love,
Monkey
P.S. A couple weeks ago we were all in the car on the way home and Christian said out of the blue "Mom, I wish Papa was still here"..I said I do too..He said "I'd tell him one more time how much I love him"...It brought tears to my eyes as I told him I would too :-)
July 12, 2011
Bittersweet anniversary William. I can't say "happy" because it isn't today. My day started off as usual....the alarm went off on my cell phone where your picture is.....memories started flooding in including the day we were married. Keith was only 5 years old and he, as well as our mothers, went to Halifax NC to witness two determined hearts deciding to get married even though we were so young. I remember the bottle of hand lotion falling out of your pocket & breaking, preventing you from using it to allow me to slip the tight-fitting wedding ring on your finger. I remember that when you noticed I was having doubts, you reminded me that people from NC don't believe in divorces. I loved you then & I love you now. I made my visit to the cemetery this morning which would have been so difficult if Sean hadn't been with me. When I got on the elevator at work around 11:30am for a break, a young lady on the elevator said that she was leaving to have lunch with her husband...I couldn't say a word & I couldn't hold back the instant tears. I miss you so very much. Guess I'll leave work now. Our three daughters are waiting to have dinner with me. How very thoughtful of them. You are still in my heart where you will remain until the day I leave this world to join you. Shirley
Angie Bath
July 11, 2011
Pops,
Just wanted to tell you Happy Anniversay...Thank you so much for showing me what it meant and took to love. I miss you so very much and love you so very much.
Monkey
Church photo
June 22, 2011
The play house daddy built for Jena & I
June 22, 2011
Daddy holding Uncle Scott on his shoulders
June 22, 2011
Papa & Doobey
June 22, 2011
Angie Bath
June 18, 2011
Pops,
Happy Father's Day!! I love you and miss you so much. Thank you for everything that you did for me. Your sacrifices althought I'm sure they felt like it at times were never unnoticed.
Love you,
Monkey
P.S. While looking for a fathers day card this year for Ruben I happened to glance over at the cards to fathers from their children...cards that I try hard to avoid glancing at...anyway I saw a card with a bird on the front and for some reason I had to open it...It said to the man who always knew what to say on the outside and when you opened it up it said Go ask your mother...I couldn't help but smile and cry right there in the store...I will never forget the numerous times that I would ask you if I could do something or go some where and you'd say I don't care or yes but then would say but go ask your mother...Remember how I use to tell you that you were my parent to and that you could make one decision but that never worked...Moms ruling was always the final say and of course she'd always say NO LOL :-)
Angela Bath
June 14, 2011
Pops,
The closer we get to Father's Day the more I think of you. I called the bank yesterday to discuss a balance transfer promotion that they have going on through the end of the month. The young lady was going over the promotional details as she pulled my credit score. Once she had my credit score she asked me if I would like to know what it was of course I said sure. After she gave me the number she said you should be proud of yourself that's a very good rating for someone your age. I couldn't help but tell her a story about you. I told her at how you would ask me as soon as a bill came in the mail if it was late and when I would be mailing my payment off. I also told her at how I remembered every time you'd get a bill in the mail you'd sit down that night at the kitchen table, write a check & prepare it to be mailed the next day and whenever I'd give you a hard time about it telling you that you had a good 20 days at least before it had to be paid that you'd tell me that it took you over 10 years to get your credit to where it was and that you weren't taking any chances incase there was a delay with mail time. She laughed and told me that you were so right. I smiled as I told her that I knew you were and that you had been right about a lot of other things you had taught me in my life time. I thank you so much for everything you gave to me and everything you taught me. It is and always will be a blessing and an honor to be your daughter.
Love,
Monkey
Alex & Papa playing music together
Angela Bath
June 8, 2011
Daddy & Mom with baby Sherry
Angela Bath
June 8, 2011
Sherry, Ashley, daddy, Jena & Uncle Keith @ Jena's graduation cookout
Angela Bath
June 8, 2011
Ashley & Papa
Angela Bath
June 8, 2011
Uncle Lin, Daddy & Uncle Keith back in the day :-)
Angela Bath
June 8, 2011
John, Dad & Ruben working on the roof
Angela Bath
June 8, 2011
Mom & Dad with their girls on Easter
Angela Bath
June 8, 2011
Dad & Dr Robertson after his first surgery
Angela Bath
June 8, 2011
Uncle Lin & Daddy
Angela Bath
June 8, 2011
Dad with his granddaughters..Ashley & Amanda
June 6, 2011
Our hands with dads (notice our heart rings that he made)
June 6, 2011
Dad W/his girls on moms birthday
June 6, 2011
Mom, Nannie, Daddy, Robert & Sean
June 6, 2011
Uncle Scott, Nannie & daddy
June 6, 2011
Pop hanging out with his hunting buddies
Angela Bath
June 5, 2011
Daddy showing Jena how to cook...not sure she was paying attention :)
Angela Bath
June 5, 2011
Dad & Uncle Keith
Angela Bath
June 5, 2011
Dad getting his hair done by Ashley...what hair he has anyway :)
Angela Bath
June 5, 2011
age 17
Angela Bath
June 5, 2011
King of the grill
Angela Bath
June 5, 2011
Mom & Dad at their Annv. party
Angela Bath
June 5, 2011
Daddy & me on a ride at busch gardens
Angela Bath
June 5, 2011
Daddy holding Angela Dawn & Ashley
Angela Bath
June 5, 2011
Papa with his 2 granddaughters..Ashley & Amanda
Angela Bath
June 5, 2011
Alex & Sean going for a good old tractor ride with papa
Angela Bath
June 5, 2011
He caught on pretty quick as to how to play
Angela Bath
June 5, 2011
Alex teaching papa how to play video games
Angela Bath
June 5, 2011
Alex & papa (he was the best tooth puller around)
Angela Bath
June 5, 2011
Mom & Dad with the grandkids on Christmas
Angela Bath
June 5, 2011
Papa & Alex after his first surgery
Angela Bath
June 5, 2011
Pops w/his girls on Easter
Angela Bath
June 5, 2011
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