Search by Name

Add a Memory

Send Flowers

Make a Donation

Share Obituary

Winton W. Edwards Jr.

FUNERAL HOME

E. Alvin Small Funeral Homes & Crematory - Colonial Heights

2033 Boulevard

Colonial Heights, Virginia

Winton Edwards Obituary

Winton W. (Squeaky) Edwards Jr., 34, of Chester, died Sunday, May 4, 2008, at the Medical College of Virginia.

He was preceded in death by his father, Winton W. Edwards Sr. Winton was an avid Washington Redskins fan.

He is survived by his wife, Tracie D. Edwards; two sons, Christopher R. and Johnathan W. Edwards; his mother, Debra W. Edwards; three brothers, Woodrow (Big Man) Edwards and wife, Stephanie, Ray Edwards and wife, Shari, and Tommy Harrell; a sister, Melissa Harrell; nieces, Tiffany, Krystin, Maykala, Amber, Taylor, Kayce and many others; cousin, Elvis Edwards; a sister-in-law, Rachel and husband, Joey Scott; numerous other family and friends.

A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, May 8, 2008, in the Colonial Heights Chapel of the E. Alvin Small Funeral Homes and Crematory, 2033 Boulevard with the Rev. Rick Sonnycalf officiating. Interment to follow in the family cemetery, 18078 Hilda Road, Yale, Va. (Sussex County), at 3 p.m. The family will receive friends from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home. Condolences may be registered at www.ealvinsmall.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Progress-Index on May 6, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for Winton Edwards

31 Entries

Jamie Hill

May 31, 2008

I am really late here, I just got the sad news, I apologize.

I have nothing but fond memories of Squeaky growing up. Although it seems that I would only run into him every other year or so by chance, I am saddened knowing that I will no longer have this opportunity. Big Man & Ray, you guys take care.

-Jamie Hill-

Brian Puse

May 8, 2008

Winton was a great guy to know and work with.
You have our most heartfelt condolences and sympathy over his tragic loss. We will keep you and your family are in our prayers.

Chestney Simmons

May 8, 2008

I was so sorry to hear of your loss. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help at this time.

Rachel Morgan

May 8, 2008

Tracie, Christopher and Johnathan,
I was very saddened to hear of the passing of your husband and dad. Pastor Nunnally let us know of his illness and we have had you in thought and prayer in this short span of time. My heart reaches out to all of you. Tracie, I think of you all as I walk the halls of Harrowgate and of the times your family has touched our lives at Harrowgate. Christopher, I remember all the years you were with us, and also when you visited church with your Aunt Audrey. Johnathan, I am glad for the "hello's" in the hallway when we meet. This extremely difficult time is when we need the great comfort of God that comes through the Lord Jesus Christ -- the comfort that goes beyond any words I can say here. I am praying this for you three and the family beyond.
With Love,
"Mrs. Rachel"(from Grace Bapt Church)
Mrs. Morgan(from Harrowgate)

Paula Mcclung

May 7, 2008

To Tracie,Christopher,John and all of Squeaky's family, We are very sorry for your loss. My memorie of squeaky that sticks with me is in High School in our language class. It was his laugh that I will not forget. Our prayers are with you and all of the family. He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds Psalm 147:3 The lord is near to those who have a broken heart,and saves such as have a contrite spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous,But the lord delivers him out of them all. Psalm34:18-19 I know you will go through times that are hard and you just will not understand I pray that God will give you strength and remember For with God nothing is impossible!!! Luke 1:37 You all are in our prayers Love, Timmy, Paula, Mary,Brooke and Tripp.

Jay Faison

May 6, 2008

Im sorry to hear about the loss of squeaky....i went to school with squeaky,big man, and ray.....though we didnt talk all that much we were friends.....to all the family, im sorry for your loss.....may god heal your pain and guide you through this difficult time....

dorothy potter

May 6, 2008

if anyone could fill my brothers shoes,his sons did a good job,squeaky remember the days. i will remember them always with love in my heart. love you forever

Helen (Visgar) Beach

May 6, 2008

To the Edwards family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you. I am so very sorry for your loss.

WILLIE WALTON

May 6, 2008

No Jacket Required
I shook my head in disbelief. This couldn't be the right place. After all, I couldn't possibly be welcome here. I had been given an invitation several times, by several different people, and I had finally decided to see what this place was all about. But, this just couldn't be the right place.
Quickly, I glanced down at the invitation that I clutched in my hand. I scanned past the words, "Come as you are. No jacket required" and found the location.
Yes, I was at the right place. I peered through the window again and saw a room of people whose faces seemed to glow with joy. All were neatly dressed, adorned in fine garments and appeared strangely clean as they dined at this exquisite restaurant. Ashamed, I looked down at my own tattered and torn clothing, covered in stains. I was dirty, in fact, filthy. A foul smell seemed to consume me and I couldn't shake the grime that clung to my body. As I turned around to leave, the words from the invitation seemed to leap out at me..."Come as you are. No jacket required."
I decided to give it a shot. Mustering up every bit of courage I could find, I opened the door to this restaurant and walked up to a man standing behind a podium.
"Your name, sir?" he asked me with a smile.
"Jimmy D. Brown," ," I mumbled without looking up. I thrust my hands deep into my pockets, hoping to conceal their stains.
He didn't seem to notice the filth that I was covered in and he continued, "Very good, sir. A table is reserved in your name. Would you like to be seated?"
I couldn't believe what I heard! A grin broke out on my face and I said, "Yes, of course!"
He led me to a table, and sure enough, there was a place-card with my name written on it in a deep, dark red. As I browsed over a menu, I saw many delightful items listed. There were things like, Peace, Joy, Blessings, Confidence, Assurance, Hope, Love, Faith and Mercy. I realized that this was no ordinary restaurant! I flipped the menu back to the front in order to see where I was at. "God's Grace" was the name of this place.
The man returned and said, " recommend the 'Special of the Day'. With it you are entitled to heaping portions of everything on this menu.
You've got to be kidding! I thought to myself. You mean, I can have ALL of this? "What is the 'Special of the Day'?" I asked with excitement ringing in my voice.
"Salvation," was his reply.
"I'll take it," I practically cried out. Then, as quickly as I made that statement, the joy left my body. A sick painful ache jerked through my stomach and tears filled my eyes. Between my sobs I said..."Mister, look at me. I'm dirty and nasty. I am unclean and unworthy of such things. I'd love to have all of this, but, I just can't afford it."
Undaunted, the man smiled again. "Sir, your check has already been taken care of by that Gentleman over there," he said as he pointed to the front of the room. "His name is Jesus."
Turning, I saw a man whose very presence seemed to light the room. He was almost too much to look at. I found myself walking towards Him and in a shaking voice I whispered, "Sir, I'll wash the dishes or sweep the floors or take out the trash. I'll do anything I can do to repay You for all this."
He opened His arms and said with a smile, "Son, all of this is yours if you just come unto me. Ask me to clean you up and I will. Ask me to allow you to feast at my table and you will eat. Remember, the table is reserved in your name. All you must do is accept this gift that I offer you."
Astonished, I fell at his feet and said, "Please, Jesus. Please clean up my life. Please change me and sit me at your table and give me this new life." Immediately, I heard the words, "It is finished."
I looked down and white robes adorned my body. Something strange and wonderful had happened. I felt new, like a weight had been lifted and I found myself seated at His table.
"The 'Special of the Day' has been served," The Lord said to me. "Salvation is yours."
We sat and talked for a great while and I so enjoyed the time that I spent with Him. He told me, me of all people, that He would like for me to come back as often as I liked for another helping from God's Grace. He made it clear that He wanted me to spend as much time with Him as possible.
As it drew near time for me to go back outside into the "real world," He whispered to me softly, "And Lo, I am with you always." And then, He said something to me that I will never forget. He said..."My child, do you see these empty tables?"
"Yes, Lord. I see them. What do they mean?" I replied.
"These are reserved tables...but the individuals whose names are on each place-card have not accepted their invitation yet. Would you be so kind as to hand out these invitations to those who have not joined us as yet?" Jesus asked.
"Of course," I said with excitement as I picked up the invitations.
"Go ye therefore into all nations." He said as I turned to leave.
I walked into God's Grace dirty and hungry. Stained in sin. My righteousness as filthy rags. And Jesus cleaned me up. I walked out a brand new man...robed in white, His righteousness. And so, I'll keep my promise to my Lord. I'll go. I'll spread the Word.
I'll share the Gospel...I'll hand out the invitations. And I'll start with you.
Have you been to God's Grace? There's a table reserved in your name, and here's your invitation..."Come as you are. No jacket required."
Author Unknown

Uneaten Donuts
There was a boy by the name of Steve who was attending Seminary in Utah. In this Seminary classes are held during school hours. Bro. Christianson taught Seminary at this particular school. He had an open-door policy and would take in any student that had been thrown out of another class as long as they would abide by his rules. Steve had been kicked out of his sixth period and no other teacher wanted him, so he went into Bro. Christianson's Seminary class.
Steve was told that he could not be late, so he arrived just seconds before the bell rang and he would sit in the very back of the room. He would also be the first to leave after the class was over.
One day, Bro. Christianson asked Steve to stay after class so he could talk with him. After class, Bro. Christianson pulled Steve aside and said, "You think you're pretty tough, don't you?"
Steve's answer was, "Yeah, I do."
Then Bro. Christianson asked, "How many push-ups can you do?"
Steve said, "I do about 200 every night."
"200? That's pretty good, Steve," Bro. Christianson said. "Do you think you could do 300?"
Steve replied, "I don't know... I've never done 300 at a time."
"Do you think you could?" Again asked Bro. Christianson.
"Well, I can try," said Steve.
"Can you do 300 in sets of 10? I need you to do 300 in sets of ten for this to work. Can you do it? I need you to tell me you can do it," Bro. Christianson said.
Steve said, "Well... I think I can... yeah, I can do it."
Bro. Christianson said, "Good! I need you to do this on Friday."
Friday came and Steve got to class early and sat in the front of the room. When class started, Bro. Christianson pulled out a big box of donuts. Now these weren't the normal kinds of donuts, they were the extra fancy BIG kind, with cream centers and frosting swirls. Everyone was pretty excited. It was Friday, the last class of the day, and they were going to get an early start on the weekend.
Bro. Christianson went to the first girl in the first row and asked, "Cynthia, do you want a donut?"
Cynthia said, "Yes."
Bro. Christianson then turned to Steve and asked, "Steve, would you do ten push-ups so that Cynthia can have a donut?"
Steve said, "Sure," and jumped down from his desk to do a quick ten. Then Steve again sat in his desk. Bro. Christianson put a donut on Cynthia's desk.
Bro. Christianson then went to Joe, the next person, and asked, "Joe do you want a donut?"
Joe said, "Yes." Bro. Christianson asked, "Steve would you do ten push-ups so Joe can have a donut?" Steve did ten push-ups, Joe got a donut.
And so it went, down the first aisle, Steve did ten pushups for every person before they got their donut. And down the second aisle, till Bro. Christianson came to Scott.
Scott was captain of the football team and center of the basketball team. He as very popular and never lacking for female companionship. When Bro. Christianson asked, "Scott do you want a donut?"
Scott's reply was, "Well, can I do my own pushups?"
Bro. Christianson said, "No, Steve has to do them."
Then Scott said, "Well, I don't want one then."
Bro. Christianson then turned to Steve and asked, "Steve, would you do ten pushups so Scott can have a donut he doesn't want?"
Steve started to do ten pushups. Scott said, "HEY! I said I didn't want one!"
Bro. Christianson said, "Look, this is my classroom, my class, my desks, and my donuts. Just leave it on the desk if you don't want it." And he put a donut on Scott's desk.
Now by this time, Steve had begun to slow down a little. He just stayed on the floor between sets because it took too much effort to be getting up and down. You could start to see a little perspiration coming out around his brow. Bro. Christianson started down the third row. Now the students were beginning to get a little angry.
Bro. Christianson asked Jenny, "Jenny, do you want a donut?"
Jenny said, "No."
Then Bro. Christianson asked Steve, "Steve, would you do ten pushups so Jenny can have a donut that she doesn't want?" Steve did ten, Jenny got a donut.
By now, the students were beginning to say "No" and there were all these uneaten donuts on the desks. Steve was also having to really put forth a lot of effort to get these pushups done for each donut. There began to be a small pool of sweat on the floor beneath his face, his arms and brow were beginning to get red because of the physical effort involved.
Bro. Christianson asked Robert to watch Steve to make sure he did ten pushups in a set because he couldn't bear to watch all of Steve's work for all of those uneaten donuts. So Robert began to watch Steve closely. Bro. Christianson started down the fourth row.
During his class, however, some students had wandered in and sat along the heaters along the sides of the room. When Bro. Christianson realized this; he did a quick count and saw 34 students in the room. He started to worry if Steve would be able to make it.
Bro. Christianson went on to the next person and the next and the next. Near the end of that row, Steve was really having a rough time. He was taking a lot more time to complete each set.
Steve asked Bro. Christianson, "Do I have to make my nose touch on each one?"
Bro. Christianson thought for a moment, "Well, they're your pushups. You can do them any way that you want." And Bro. Christianson went on. A few moments later, Jason came to the room and was about to come in when all the students yelled, "NO! Don't come in! Stay out!"
Jason didn't know what was going on. Steve picked up his head and said, "No, let him come."
Bro. Christianson said, "You realize that if Jason comes in you will have to do ten pushups for him."
Steve said, "Yes, let him come in."
Bro. Christianson said, "Okay, I'll let you get Jason's out of the way right now. Jason, do you want a donut?"
"Yes."
"Steve, will you do ten pushups so that Jason can have a donut?" Steve did ten pushups very slowly and with great effort. Jason, bewildered, was handed a donut and sat down.
Bro. Christianson finished the fourth row, then started on those seated on the heaters. Steve's arms were now shaking with each pushup in a struggle to lift himself against the force of gravity. Sweat was dropping off of his face and, by this time, there was not a dry eye in the room.
The very last two girls in the room were cheerleaders and very popular. Bro. Christianson went to Linda, the second to last, and asked, "Linda, do you want a doughnut?
Linda said, very sadly, "No, thank you."
Bro. Christianson asked Steve, "Steve, would you do ten pushups so that Linda can have a donut she doesn't want?"
Grunting from the effort, Steve did ten very slow pushups for Linda. Then Bro. Christianson turned to the last girl, Susan. "Susan, do you want a donut?"
Susan, with tears flowing down her face, asked, "Bro. Christianson, can I help him?"
Bro. Christianson, with tears of his own, said, "No, he has to do it alone, Steve, would you do ten pushups so Susan can have a donut?"
As Steve very slowly finished his last pushup, with the understanding that he had accomplished all that was required of him, having done 350 pushups, his arms buckled beneath him and he fell to the floor. Bro. Christianson turned to the room and said. "And so it was, that our Savior, Jesus Christ, plead to the Father, "Into thy hands I commend my spirit." With the understanding that He had done everything that was required of Him, he collapsed on the cross and died. And like some of those in this room, many of us leave the gift on the desk, uneaten.

The Homeless Man
The parking lot filled rapidly on Sunday morning as members of the large church congregation filed into church. As usually happens in a church that size, each member had developed a certain comfort zone, a block of space within those four church walls that became theirs after the second or third sitting.
It was as much a part of their church experience as their recliner was to the television at home. Some of the older members had been sitting in the same row on the same side for several decades. A team of oxen could not have moved them to the opposite side of the church.
One morning a stranger stood at the edge of the parking lot near a dumpster. As families parked cars and piled out, they noticed him rummaging through the trash. "Oh no! I don't believe it,"whispered a lady to her husband. "That's all we need, a bunch of homeless people milling around here."
One worried little girl tugged on her dad's sleeve. Daddy was busy sizing up the bearded stranger, whose baggy, outdated trousers and faded flannel shirt had dusted too many park benches.
"Don't stare at him, honey," he whispered, and hurried her inside. Soft music filled the high-ceiling sanctuary as church-goers settled into their usual spots. The choir sang an opening chorus, 'In His presence there is comfort...in His presence there is peace...
Sunlight suddenly flooded the center aisle. The double doors swung open and the homeless man, sloppy and stooped, headed toward the front. "Oh no, it's him" somebody muttered.
"What does he think he's doing, anyway?" Snapped an incredulous usher. The stranger set his bagful of dumpster treasures on the very first pew, which had been upholstered in an expensive soft teal fabric just three months ago. The music stopped. And before anyone had a chance to react, he ambled up the stairs and stood behind the fine, handcrafted oak podium, where he faced a wide-eyed congregation.
The disheveled stranger spoke haltingly at first, in a low, clear voice. Unbuttoning and removing his top layer of clothing, he described Jesus, and the love He has for all people.
"Jesus possesses a sensitivity and love that far surpasses what any of us deserves." Stepping out of the baggy old trousers, the stranger went on to describe a forgiveness that is available to each and every one of us...without strings attached.
"Unconditionally He loves us. Unconditionally He gave His very life for us. Unconditionally and forever, we can have the peace and assurance that no matter who we are, where we've come from, or how badly we may have mistreated others or ourselves, there is hope. In Jesus, there is always hope."
"You see, my friends, it is never too late to change," the man continued. "He is the Author of change, and the Provider of forgiveness. He came to bring new meaning to life."
Men and women squirmed as reality hit them like an electrical current. The stranger tugged at his knotted gray beard, and removed it. "I'm here to tell you that we are loved with a love far beyond human understanding, a love that enables us to accept and love others in return." Then tenderly he added, "Let's pray together."
That wise pastor - under the guise of a homeless 'nobody' did not preach a sermon that day, but every person left with plenty to think about.
My awesome God
Luke 12:4
I hear your voice from above.
It sounds like thunder, my awesome God.
I see your fingers that light the sky.
They reach to earth as you cry.

Oh People, People why can't you see?
I'm still your God, I set you free.
I sent my son to die for you.
To bare the shame you put him through.

I am,I was, I will always be.
Faithful & True why can't you believe?
Are you so blind, you can not see?
I am there, when you call on me.
I am with you in your time of need.
In your sorrows I will grieve.

You hear my voice, when I call.
You turn your back, when you have it all.
You test my anger by the things you do.
When you call on me, I'm there for you.

Oh Father, Father how can we be,
So selfish and so full of greed.
Forgive me Father, for I have sinned.
Please send your Spirit to guide me again.

I promise Father I will try to be
The kind of child you created in me.
I Love you Father with all my heart.
Help me to be like Jesus,
With a brand new start.

Dennis Malone

May 6, 2008

My deepest condolences goes out to the Edwards family. Winton will be missed indeed. I know this is very hard to deal with losing a husband (Tracie) losing a dad (christopher & Johnathan) and losing a brother (Woodrow) no one knows' your hurt and it is hard to describe so you keep the pain inside. One day God will release the pain and it will seem like a long time coming, but trust me it will come. God Bless You All.

Tom Troidle

May 6, 2008

To the Edwards Family. I have known Winton for a short time now. He was a great friend.I will miss him, but he is in a better place now with God. Tracie, be strong. You will be in our prayers.

Joey, Geoff, Vince & Terry stutz family

May 6, 2008

May your family find comfort & solace in our Heavenly Father. May you know that Squeaky in in His loving arms right now. Squeaky was a special part of our lives when Joey & Geoff were growing up & we will always treasure those precious memories in our heart. May Our Heavenly Father bless & comfort you in this time of your deep & hearfelt sorrow. We were all blessed to have had Squeaky in our lives

Courtney, Chance, Marcel, Aud, Jose, Melina, Marcos, Ash, Jason and Krissy!

May 6, 2008

To the entire Edwards Family, you are in our prayers and thoughts. Squeaky will be missed greatly, but you guys can all pull through this by sticking together. Tracie, Chris and Jon if you need anything we are here for you. We love you guys dearly!

Kelli Edmonds

May 6, 2008

My heart goes out to all of the family. May god be with you during this difficult time. We are keeping you in our prayers.

LARRY BEASLEY

May 6, 2008

In The Garden

Night has fallen in the Garden of Fate,
Peaceful and silent, as destiny awaits.
Coolness and dew, tragedy and tears.
Mist of the earth, confirming it's fears.

Time taking it's toll, as footsteps are heard.
Jesus enters the garden, not saying a word.
His soul exceeding sorrowful, even unto death.
Anguish revealed, by the sigh of His breath.

A shelter of comfort, a longing to ease,
Covering the man, in the shade of the trees.
Rocks lending strength, to His weakened state.
Bearing His burden, holding His weight.

Meadowgrass softening His grief and His pain,
A blanket of compassion, yet sadness remains.
No longer able, to hold composure in place.
He drops to His knees, tears streaking His face.

As agony engulfs, more earnest in prayer.
In the depths of His heart, emotions are bared.
His sweat, as it were, great drops of blood.
Fall to the ground, as a tormented flood.

Abba, Father, all things are possible to Thee.
If it be Your will, let this cup pass from Me.
His face to the heavens, My Father Divine...
Nevertheless, not my will, but let it be Thine.

No truer example has ever been set...
Than the love of Jesus, to pay our sin's debt.
Obedient til death, He gave us His all,
Would you open your heart, taking heed to His call?

Enter the garden, and examine your will,
Could you die to self, letting God be fulfilled?
It may not be easy, but His glory will shine...
When you give Him your all and say...
Not my will, but thine.

MELVIN EDWARD SR

May 6, 2008

My awesome God
Luke 12:4
I hear your voice from above.
It sounds like thunder, my awesome God.
I see your fingers that light the sky.
They reach to earth as you cry.

Oh People, People why can't you see?
I'm still your God, I set you free.
I sent my son to die for you.
To bare the shame you put him through.

I am,I was, I will always be.
Faithful & True why can't you believe?
Are you so blind, you can not see?
I am there, when you call on me.
I am with you in your time of need.
In your sorrows I will grieve.

You hear my voice, when I call.
You turn your back, when you have it all.
You test my anger by the things you do.
When you call on me, I'm there for you.

Oh Father, Father how can we be,
So selfish and so full of greed.
Forgive me Father, for I have sinned.
Please send your Spirit to guide me again.

I promise Father I will try to be
The kind of child you created in me.
I Love you Father with all my heart.
Help me to be like Jesus,
With a brand new start.

PAMELA BYPASS

May 6, 2008

BENSON AND FAMILY

May 6, 2008

You won't have to walk alone."

With that, his shoulders straightened up,
He squared them best he could,
He started taking firmer steps,
I could tell that he felt good.

Inwardly, I smiled,
I could not help but be aware,
Of a change in his whole attitude,
With his new protective air.

And, then he started talking,
He chattered on and on,
Told me all about his life,
And his wife, who had gone on.

One moment, tears were falling,
The next, he'd give a laugh,
We were having such a good time,
As we moved on down the path.

I forgot my cares and worries,
I got so involved with my new friend,
I really liked to hear him talk,
I almost wished he'd never end.

A few more steps, there was my house,
My gait began to slow,
I did not want to silence him,
He'd helped me forget my woes.

"Oh dear," he said; his voice dropped,
"I guess we've reached your door."
"Yes," I replied, "You may come in,
If you would like to chat some more."

"Oh no," he hesitated,
"But I think you're very kind,
Now, I've seen you safely home,
Perhaps another time."

"Thank you," he added sweetly,
As he turned to go away,
It was so nice talking to you,
You really made my day."

"Wait," I said, "Let me thank you,"
I put my hand upon his sleeve,
"You helped me forget my cares,
You made my worries leave."

Then I watched him walk away,
He seemed diffused with light,
"Thank you, God," I said aloud,
"For my Angel from the night."

And, as the old man left her house,
He also said a prayer,
"I thank you, Lord," he bowed his head,
"For my Angel I found there."

We don't know why, where, or when,
An Angel's sent to us,
But we are truly blest indeed,
That God's so generous.

HENRY COLEMAN

May 6, 2008

My Aging Guardian Angel

Since I have grown older,
Things have changed a lot for me;
I have learned to make adjustments,
And do things differently.

For instance, now when I climb stairs,
I hold on to the rails;
I don't indulge in rich desserts,
And I do not drink cocktails.

I don't tote groceries in one bag,
Now, I ask for two;
I don't clean the whole house at one time,
A room or two will do.

It isn't just things physical,
My thinking's changed as well;
I don't read romance novels now,
I think biographies are swell.

I'm more selective with my movies,
My music choice has changed a lot;
Now I pick the slow and dreamy,
And skip what others say is "hot."

But, new thoughts now occur to me,
Perhaps of another nature;
From time to time I think about
My guardian angel's stature.

I thought that guardian angels
Should match one's age in years;
So they could truly understand
One's joys and one's tears.

Now, if that statement's really true,
My angel's hair should be snow white;
Her wings, most likely stiff from age,
So she can't do angel flights.

She probably wears bifocals too,
She may even use a cane;
I suspect that her arthritis,
May have made her sore and lame.

But I guess she still can care for me,
Since I don't go anywhere;
I can not be too hard on her,
So, no more wear and tear.

For many years she's worked real hard,
Watching me was quite a chore;
And, while now I live so differently,
I just might need her more.

She'll be with me now I'm alone,
She'll soothe my tired brow;
She knows my pains and heartaches,
And how much I need God now.

Her line to God is still in place,
And, though she's slow and fragile;
She still communicates with Him,
There's no need to be so agile.

I think my guardian angel
Has grown old ... along with me;
And when my earthly ties are loosed,
She will help to set me free.

She'll take my hand ... we'll both go Home,
Our trip will be first rate;
Neither one of us will falter,
We'll help each other find the Gate.

WALKER FAMILY

May 6, 2008

Think With Your Heart
Close your eyes
To see with your heart.
Close your ears
To hear with your heart.
Forget your mind
And think with your heart.

For your heart will see
When your eyes fail,
And your heart will hear
When the voices are confused,
Your heart has the answers
When your mind falls short.

Remember your heart
For it is the key to love.
Remember all love
For love is the key to your soul.
Remember your soul
For it is your Foundation.

WENDY HARVELL

May 6, 2008

Faith Is Stronger Than Fears

Sometimes my cross is hard to bear
for there is darkness everywhere,
and troubles pile around my door
like autumn leaves forevermore.

The morning light seems far away,
like I am stuck in yesterday,
My heart is beating like a drum,
I try to pray, but words won't come.

But then the sun begins to rise
and hope is born within my eyes.
A rainbow forms among my tears,
my faith is stronger than my fears

River Road Miracles

I travel a road~
as my ancestors long ago~
my destination unknown.
Yet I am driven to go on my
journey to wisdom and happiness
as I cross paths until
one day I will go home.

The only thing that remains
constant is change.
For today if you are unpleased~
please yourself with one more day,
everyday...

The constant change will show,
and sometimes you will know
that a greater than thee
has sent angels to watch over
you and me.
Makes hard times almost heavenly.

Truly, "all things are possible."
All you do is...
Believe when you pray
and pray each day.
In great times, hard times,
sad times, fantastic times,
all time~

River Road Miracles
I have seen, and yes I do believe,
"all things are possible."
All you do is believe.

May 6, 2008

I felt your presence in the humid air.
I couldn't help but notice you were there.
And then I heard the rumbling far away.
I knew we were in for a storm today.

I saw the sky on fire with lightening
As usual, I found this a bit frightening.
Especially when the torrent of rain fell
and the thunder began to swell.

I bent my head in prayer.
To let you know how much I care.
The gloomy day transformed into night.
Despite the howling wind I knew it would be alright.

Soon the storm passed.
The world became quiet at last.
Off in the distance I heard the sound.
Of screeching sirens all around.

However when morning came
I found my world to be the same.
I embrace you my Dear Lord.
My faith in you is continually restored.

Ma

richard reeves

May 6, 2008

Warm Summer Sun

Warm summer sun,
Shine kindly here,
Warm southern wind,
Blow softly here.
Green sod above,
Lie light, lie light.
Good night, dear heart,
Good night, good night.

By Mark Twain (Samuel Langhorne Clemens)
The Poetry Foundation

Music, when soft voices die

Music, when soft voices die,
Vibrates in the memory—
Odours, when sweet violets sicken,
Live within the sense they quicken.

Rose leaves, when the rose is dead,
Are heaped for the belovèd's bed;
And so thy thoughts, when thou art gone,
Love itself shall slumber on.

By Percy Bysshe Shelley

MARLA EDWARDS

May 6, 2008

Cherish all of the memories that you all spent together. Believe me, I know that it will be hard at times but God will see you through it all.
I know that with the holidays, the first one of being without your loved one is very hard but God will see you through. Your family will forever have my prayers and just know that this is the time that you must come even closer than ever. It will take each of you to help the other one out.
I love you all with the love of Christ and I pray that God will continue to wrap His loving arms around you.

FAMILY

May 6, 2008

My precious one, you’ve gone to be
With our Savior in Heaven above.
But I’ll be waiting for our next embrace
And hold your hand with love.
God chose to take you ahead of me
And sadness still fills my heart.
But someday we will be joined again
And never again shall we part.
I know you’re in God’s hands right now
With no pain, or sorrow to bear.
For you’re in a place of peace and love,
Of which I look forward to share.
Your face I see when I close my eyes
And sometimes there’s a tear or two.
But because I’m only human dear,
It’s my wanting to be with you.
I will be strong, and live my life
Until God calls me home.
Then meet me at those Golden Gates
Where God, is by His throne.
Oh yes, I shall be waiting
On that glorious day to arrive
With you and Jesus by my side
It is then, I will feel alive.

MARCY

May 6, 2008

There may be times you want to cry

when life gives you some trials,

but don't despair, there's a sky of blue,

to turn your frowns to smiles.

There will be tears, for this is life,

but don't let it get you down.

Just pray to our Lord and Master,

He'll turn everything around.

Sadness comes unwanted.

Happiness, with open arms.

So box up all your troubles,

put on your magic charms.

You'll then feel so much better

when those smiles start shining through.

So throw away that frown you had,

then start your day anew.

And when the days seem black

and there's nothing to live for,

just look above and say a prayer,

God's standing at His door.

A smile is very cheap to get,

not a penny does it cost.

Just remember these few words I say,

whenever you feel lost.

Now when I pass someone I see,

I'll look at them and grin.

And when they smile back at me,

I’ll know I passed it on to them.

'Cause a smile can travel 'round the earth,

so don't leave it undetected.

Let's share that smile with everyone

and get the whole world infected!

~Author~

Ruth Ann Mahaffey

CINDY ABLE

May 6, 2008

Please accept our deepest sympathies.

We were so sorry to hear of your loss. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help at this time.

You are in our thoughts and prayers.

The loss of someone so close is difficult to bear. We share your grief.

Our hearts go out to you at this time and in the days ahead.

We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.

No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. Our deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

BARBARA EARLY

May 6, 2008

It saddens us to be apart, and forever we
hold you in our hearts
today you stand in God's bright light.
Watching over us day and night.
In our hearts you will remain
until the day we meet again...
Forever Your love will live on in our hearts
and the hearts of those you touched.
We are so grateful to God for blessing our lives with
the beautiful gift of you.
We miss you sweet angel,
more than you can imagine.

Do not stand by my grave and weep
For I am not there.
I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am diamonds that glint on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning hush
I am the swift uplifting rush of butterflies in joyous flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry.
I am not there.
I did not die.

AMAZING grace! How sweet the sound
that saved a wretch likes me.
shall fail,
and mortal life shall cease,
I shall possess within the veil,
A life of joy and peace.

James Newton

CYNTHIA JESSUP

May 6, 2008

One Day at a Time
You lived your life one day at a time.
The words you shared were always kind.
You loved us all with your whole heart.
It saddens us to be apart, and forever we
hold you in our hearts
Today you stand in God's bright light.
Watching over us day and night.
In our hearts you will remain
Until the day we meet again...
Forever Your love will live on in our hearts
and the hearts of those you touched.
We are so grateful to God for blessing our lives with
the beautiful gift of you.
We miss you sweet angel,
more than you can imagine.

I can not find the words to say
Exactly how I feel.
That truly describes the hurt inside,
For I know your pain is so real
Your heart, so heavy, with so much pain,for the empty loss inside.
The tears fall down like falling rain
That never seems to subside.
It's very hard to say "goodbye",
To the one you loved so much.
But if you go to God in prayer,
You'll feel His sense of touch.
Think of your sorrows calmly,
when daylight turns to night.
Go tell it all to Jesus,
For He will make it right.
He's always there to listen,
When your grief, to Him, you give.
You'll feel the burden lifted,
And again, your life you'll live.

This empty chair remains,

but memories are in my heart.

For when I join you in Heaven,

we'll never have to part.
May you and your family find comfort in your memories? God Bless you!!!

TONY

May 6, 2008

A Reminiscence

YES, thou art gone! and never more
Thy sunny smile shall gladden me;
But I may pass the old church door,
And pace the floor that covers thee.

May stand upon the cold, damp stone,
And think that, frozen, lies below
The lightest heart that I have known,
The kindest I shall ever know.

Yet, though I cannot see thee more,
'Tis still a comfort to have seen;
And though thy transient life is o'er,
'Tis sweet to think that thou hast been;

To think a soul so near divine,
Within a form so angel fair,
United to a heart like thine,
Has gladdened once our humble sphere.

By Anne Bronte
The Poetry Foundation

Crossing the Bar

Sunset and evening star,
And one clear call for me!
And may there be no moaning of the bar,
When I put out to sea,

But such a tide as moving seems asleep,
Too full for sound and foam,
When that which drew from out the boundless deep
Turns again home.

Twilight and evening bell,
And after that the dark!
And may there be no sadness of farewell,
When I embark;

For tho' from out our bourne of Time and Place
The flood may bear me far,
I hope to see my Pilot face to face
When I have crost the bar.

By Alfred, Lord Tennyson
The Poetry Foundation

When I am dead, my dearest

When I am dead, my dearest,
Sing no sad songs for me;
Plant thou no roses at my head,
Nor shady cypress tree:
Be the green grass above me
With showers and dewdrops wet;
And if thou wilt, remember,
And if thou wilt, forget.

I shall not see the shadows,
I shall not feel the rain;
I shall not hear the nightingale
Sing on, as if in pain:
And dreaming through the twilight
That doth not rise nor set,
Haply I may remember,
And haply may forget.

By Christina Rossetti
The Poetry Foundation

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2008

MARY HARVELL

May 6, 2008

God Saw You

God saw you getting tired,
When a cure was not to be.
So He wrapped his arms around you,
and whispered, "Come to me".
You didn't deserve what you went through,
So He gave you rest.
God's garden must be beautiful,
He only takes the best
And when I saw you sleeping,
So peaceful and free from pain
I could not wish you back
To suffer that again.

My prayers and thoughts are with you during this challenging time. Be encouraged that God will definitely sustain you, comfort you, and see you through. He continues to do that me and my family, and will undoubtedly do the same for you. Love you all. God bless!

GOD HAS CHOSEN THIS SPECIAL PERSON FOR A VERY SPECIAL PLACE IN HIS KINGDOM.MY GOD STRENGTHEN THE FAMILY AND MAY YOU CONTINUE TO ASK HIM TO GUIDE YOU.EVERYONE IS PRAYING FOR YOU...

If tears could build a stairway
And memories were a lane,
I would walk right up to heaven
To bring you home again.
No farewell words were spoken.
No time to say good-bye.
You were gone before we knew it,
And only God knows why.
My heart still aches in sadness
And secret tears still flow.
What it meant to lose you,
No one will ever know.