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Erin Peterson Obituary

PETERSON
PIX,2I ERIN NICOLE PETERSON

Most unexpectedly on Monday, April 16, 2007; the devoted daughter of Grafton and Celeste Peterson of Centreville, VA; beloved granddaughter of Woodrow and Bettie Robinson of Purcellville, VA and Vernon Peterson of Chantilly, VA; niece of James G. Peterson, Mary Canady and Denise Robinson; goddaughter of William "Tex" Lloyd; cousin of Zachary Canady, Tracy and Shujuan Littlejohn; and close family friend, Cheryl Lenox. She is also survived by great-uncles and aunts, William and Emily Robinson, Walter and Jean Hogan; as well as numerous aunts; uncles; cousins and friends. Friends may call on Tuesday, April 24, 2007 from 10 a.m. until time of service 11 a.m. at Mt. Olive Baptist Church, 6600 Old Centreville Rd., Centreville, VA 20121. Interment Rock Hill Cemetery, Round Hill, VA. Arrangements by LYLES FUNERAL SERVICE, Eric S. Lyles, Director, 1-800-388-1913.

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Published by The Washington Post from Apr. 22 to Apr. 23, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for Erin Peterson

Not sure what to say?





J Martinez

May 25, 2014

MAY GOD FOREVER BLESS YOUR FAMILY FAITH WILL SEE THEM THOUGH.

Norma Barrett

April 20, 2014

Another beautiful Angel.

Tara Richardson

November 22, 2013

My prayers will forever be with the family of this wonderful young woman. God bless you all. I will never forget.

Kaylee Grabowski

October 18, 2012

Erin, I never had the honor to meet you, but you're beautiful. You're in heaven watching down on us. You're in a safe place now.

Cynthia Anderson

September 17, 2012

Grafton & Celeste, I think about you and pray for you often. I feel a bond and I guess its because I have a daughter the same age as Erin. I live in Michigan and want you to know that if you are ever in Flint (or close by), my home is your home. My door is always open. To reach me just call the church office of Macedonia M.B. Church at 810-787-1561 and they can get in touch with me. God Bless You!

pat whitt

July 8, 2011

You are so beautiful. your face radiates the soul of an angel. what a blessing!

May 1, 2010

3 years Since your passing your now in Heaven a Safe place with God when you left This World in April 2007 your Spirit Will Forever live

annebeth

April 15, 2010

Keeping the family of Erin in prayer today. RIP.

natty ferrer

December 8, 2009

Erin I never have the honor to meet you in person, until I went to your view, but I know your mother from Melpar and I want Celeste and your father know how sorry I am for your lost, my daugther Alina went to VA Tech is a fine University sorry what happen there and many young people were lost.
I am sure you are beside God.
The Ferrer-Tandski family

Natasha Griffin

July 22, 2009

Erin,
I never got the pleasure to meet you or get to know you on a personal level, but I sure have gotten to know you through all of the beautiful and touching stories told by your friends, family, and associates! I know that you are in a better place and even though your loved ones needed you down here, God needed you much more up there! I send all my condolences to your family and to all of the VT victim's families! Rest in Peace Erin!

TONJA SQUIREWELL

June 12, 2009

June 12, 2009
Erin i did not know how to tell you this i awalys look up to you!You have been some one i can talk to when i heard of your death I was very very !!!!!!!!!!!up-set you are in a place wear u can RIP.

rashena squirewekk

April 17, 2009

yesterday was a hard day for me!!!! i went to go see you at your grave with ebony and the rest of the crew, i know u had seen us talking to your dad, and bringing up so many memories of you. while u r up their in heaven. You were a amazing person and everyone miss's u!!! u will always b n our hearts!! We will see u soon!!! i love u!!!
always and forever Rashena Squirewell!!!!!

M

April 15, 2009

Erin: I never knew you but I think about you all the time. I see all the people you knew whos lives were touched by you, including many people very close to me. I thank you for all you did for them.

nickie maclaurin

April 2, 2009

love your kind of work

Rhasheemm Squirewell

October 1, 2008

R.I

Teresa Aquino

August 6, 2008

To Erin: You have a birthday coming up and you are in a better place now. You are with our sister. I know she will take care of you. My prayers go out to your father because I know it must be hard to lose both of your little girls. I wish I could have known you better. We shared a common bond, our sister Carla. Rest in Peace.

jonathan ortiz

July 28, 2008

to the family of erin my thoughts and prayers are with you i know that erin is resting in peace the angels she was in angel sent by god and here to do god's work erin was beautiful her smile lights up a room as it must have been we love you erin and your family as will allways love you blessings to the family love jonathan

Rashena Squirewell

May 16, 2008

Erin you taught me how to play basketball!!!!!! when I was in the summer camp!!! the last time we seeneach other was at the movies, when we went to see, STOMP the YARD, and NORBIT!!! omG U had me cracking up when we seen that movie.!!! i love you so much and so does my sister! you two were best friends and you guys ment a lot to each other!!!! i love you!!! save a spot for me up there okay!!! girl!!! i know u playing basketball with the other angels!!!! i love u. R.I.P!!!!

cheyenne barb

April 21, 2008

i did not know erin well but i found out that she was a distant cousin. may blessings be with her family

Kenita Honesty

April 18, 2008

Erin, what to say?

I can't believe a whole year has come and gone. I still remember as if it were yesterday when you, my sister, and I went to Greg's house and just chilled. That was the first time I really chilled with ya, and I had a good time. I also remember your mom blowing up your phone to make sure you were home before your curfew. The funny part was when we got you home your moms was standing in the front door waiting for you, now that’s love man.

Whenever my sister and I talk about the funny things that you did, she always brings up the time that you fell thru your chair at your basketball game. Even though I wasn't there I can only imagine.

Throughout this past year I have read every article written about you. Honestly, you have given me the strength to go for my dreams. I have learned that within your life you have touched so many lives. I have many your pictures in my cubicle, and when I feel overwhelmed or feel like giving up I look at your picture and you give me strength.

Your sister, Janis Cannady

April 16, 2008

To Grafton,
I continue to pray for you and Celeste daily. Continue to hold to God's Unchanging Hands. My prayer is that you both find peace and Trust in the Lord with all thine heart. Seek the scriptures to find peace and contentment. Stay in the word of the Lord for guidance. I love you.

A Friend Always

April 15, 2008

Erin
Such grace and beauty will forever be yours. You were, are, will always be a fantastic friend, daughter, cousin, niece, and whatever your heart desired. You are 1 in a million. The smile captures the radiance of your beauty. You are missed, but not forgotten.

J Harper

April 14, 2008

Even though I didn't know Erin very long, she was a great friend and a fantastic person overall. My thoughts & prayers are with her friends and family as we remember her! Love You E.P. I Miss You!

Regina

March 25, 2008

"To live in the hearts you leave behind is not to die" Erin you'll always be in my heart!! Thinking about you helps me get through hard days sometimes because I know you always had a smile on your face.. I love you and miss you E!

February 28, 2008

I miss seeing you hanging around deet's at night. English class was never the same after you. Thinking of you always<3

janea johnson

February 1, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with erin's family. Its a tragady for someone with a lot of potential and so much spirit to die so soon.

December 6, 2007

~Erin,
When I heard about what happened, I was so shocked. I remember in middle school when all the girls in our class were so cliquish, but you were friends with everyone, and expressed a desire for everyone to just be friends. I remember being upset one day and you were one of the very few people who comforted me. I wished I had stayed in touch with you after middle school~ but even with those few years, you touched my life in ways no one would image. ~Such an inspiring and beautiful girl... on the inside and out.~
I know you are in heaven now and looking over all of us. Ive always been touched at your huge faith in God.

I pray that the entire Peterson family and friends of Erin will accept my condolences.
I hope you can find a bit of peace in the faith that Erin cherished so deeply.

subadra rajaram

November 14, 2007

Erin, I have not seen you or talked to you.
I have gone through all your photographs and your essay.
The essay on death of greatgrandmother is mind blowing.
Whereever you are, God will be with you always protecting you.
You are not here but your smile and your kind hearted nature (about which I read a lot) will be here for ever.
My heart goes out to Erin's mom and dad and I pray to Almighty to give them strength.

Aunt Mary

November 9, 2007

My lovely neice Erin,
I am sitting here at work, thinking about you and missing you oh so much. My heart stays heavy, longing to see you smile and to hear your sweet voice. Your little cousin Zach and I talk about you a lot. He is having a hard time concentrating in school some days because he says he thinks about you all time. He really misses you for you were not only his sweet cousin but you were his big sister. He adored you as we all did. You were a wonderful role model for him and he really looked to you for advice. He works hard in school and with his sports. He knows how important a good education was to you and he strives daily to make you proud. We love you and miss you Erin. Our hearts will forever be heavy for losing you but with God's love we will all be together again one day. May God continue to wrap his arms around you and keep you in his care.

Regina Lewis

September 19, 2007

Grafton and Celeste,
Erin's memory and spirit will live forever in the two of you. God bless you both.

Sharon Boone

September 16, 2007

My prayers continue to be with the Peterson family. I did not know Erin, but her life and death have touched my heart. She is smiling and at peace in heaven. May God give you peace as you continue healing from your tragic loss.

Ebony S

August 31, 2007

Erin, words cant express how much i miss you. We had so many things that will still had to do; you, hope, and I. I know that you are in a better place and looin down on us. I know that me dak., j, and hope visited you a little before your b-day, but i wanted to tell you again, happy b-day. Hey we are all actually 19 at the same time, at least for a while. well I love you gurl, and you are truely missed.
Eb!

Kellie Chang

August 30, 2007

Hey Erin, I love you and miss you!

Vasili Glimidakis

August 27, 2007

Dear Peterson Family,
I am sorry for your loss. God bless her and her family.

joe samaha

August 21, 2007

Erin,
May you and Reema stay close and protect one another. Reema, please teach Erin how to belly dance and Erin, please teach Reema how to shoot. May you grow old together in frienship.
Happy Birthday!
Love,
The Samaha Family

August 17, 2007

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, ERIN!!!
We love and miss you!

Your Second Family

Tara Walker

July 22, 2007

Something about her face has stuck with me since the first time I saw it. It is a face of love, confidence, wisdom, and life. I never met Erin and I feel like I missed out on knowing one the greatest people that walked this earth. To her parents, family, and friends may GOD be with you all. I will NEVER forget Erin Nicole Peterson

Sherry Calkin

June 25, 2007

Celeste and family,

Words cannot even begin to comfort you at this time. I pray that the Holy Spirit will bring you the peace that surpasses all understanding. I was not blessed to have known your Erin, however I daughter knows her in Heaven. One day I have have the privelege of meeting her. I also lost my only child a daughter a year ago tragically and sudden. I also will have no wedding and no grandchilden. I was in one day discussing her SAT's and the next picking out her casket. I feel your pain and emptiness. I pray for you and your family. I was encouraged by words that Jesus laid on my heart a few days after her death that I would like to share with you and hope they will at least bring you a few moments of confort.

To my beloved daughter,

Since the day god blessed me with your birth, I tried to raise you not of this earth.

Your faith in Jesus never did you hide, you wore the cross until the day you died.

Your soul went to heaven as wings of a dove, now you praise Jesus with all of your love.

Although you were never a mother or wife, you have so much more, you have eternal life.

What better way to pause our story, then for you to be with God and all of his glory.

For in the ground you do not lay, you are singing for Jesus this very day.

Until the day my work here is complete, then I too shall kneel at his feet.

When our story resumes we will be in heaven, again singing and praising his name together, Oh but this time it will be so much better.

When God says its time, you and I have a date for on that day you will meet me at the gate.

Until that day my lovely daughter, our memories I will always harbor.

Joy will fill my heart again one day
Eternity is how long we will stay
Singing together in heaven we'll be
Us with our savior on bended knee
Smiling with you each and every day

Never again to be taken away

I am blessed to have been loved by you in this life.
My heart aches every moment of every hour of every day for your touch, your smile and you kiss.

We will see you soon my beauty,

Geniece Gibby

June 22, 2007

I never met Erin but my thoughts and prays go out to her family & friends! As well as all the families of the VT victims.

Mary Canady

June 15, 2007

Erin Nicole Peterson was a sweet, loving and giving young lady. Erin was the youngest of my neices. She was full of life and lived life to the fullest. Eighteen years ago, two days after the passing of her sister God blessed our family with Erin. Yes, Erin was our Angel sent by God. Oh, what a beautiful blessing she was. She was just a wonderful child to watch grow up. Watching her excel in school and on the basketball court was just a joy. No matter what the task before her was she gave it her all. Erin always thought about everyone else before herself and never thinking twice about it. She was always smiling and full of so much joy. My heart aches now that she is no longer here on earth with us but I know that she is alright because she has gone on to be with God. Erin never had the opportunity to meet her sister but I am quite sure that they are together now along with her granny and grandnanny. Rest in peace Erin and save a hug for your Aunt Mary.

BaSheba Valentine

June 14, 2007

I am your cousin. Your father, GRAFTON, and I shared classes together at Banneker Elementary in St. Louis. Your "BIG NANNY" was my Aunt, Mary Jane. Love you & the family always. GOD is . . . .

Denise Kelly

June 11, 2007

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life’s routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

Becca

June 7, 2007

God be with you.

Terry Belll

June 5, 2007

Petersons:
Please make sure you get a copy of Erin's guest book. I have a copy of my daughter's guest book. I enjoy reading each entry from time to time. Peace be with your family. Prayerfully, Terry

Terry Belll

June 5, 2007

Petersons:
Please make sure you get a copy of this guest book. I have a copy of my daughter's guest book. I enjoy reading each entry from time to time. Peace be with your family. Prayerfully, Terry

The Burns Family

May 25, 2007

You will never be forgotten!

alma renner

May 22, 2007

GOD BLESS YOU

Courtny Brown

May 20, 2007

To the family and friends of this young woman: My heart goes out to each and everyone of you. To the parents I can't say I know how and what you are feeling, because I don't!! But know that God is right there to carry you through.... To the freinds I can understand and know first hand what's it like to have someone you love and are use to seeing and being with on a daily basis taken from you so sudden... I know because my best friend was taken from me in a moment!! But I say to everyone don't remember the day how she left this cruel world, but celebrate and remember the good times, the bad, and the ones that you never want to forget!!! Know that she is in a much much much better place and you will see your love one again! May God Bless you.. Erin and Heaven smile upon you!!!

From a college student to another!

Jennetta Barnes

May 17, 2007

My heart continues to go out to the family of Erin. Her smile continues to light up the world. May God continue to bless you all.

G Goss

May 16, 2007

Erin's beautiful smile touched my heart. Your pain at the loss of such a jewel must be enormous. Please know that there are others
who pray for your strength and peace.

Your Second Family

May 16, 2007

Erin,
It's been a month now and it still hurts so bad that you're not here
with us. We miss you so much. We think of you everyday and wish there
was something we could do to bring you back. Your mom and dad are
really hurting, but doing well. They continue on because they know
that's what you would want. Know that we are here to help your
parents through this difficult time and always will be. They are not
alone. We love you, Erin.

Annette Smith

May 15, 2007

Dear Family and friends:
I wanted to share just a few words of comfort and hope. “If a man die, shall he live again?” asked the man Job long ago. (Job14:14 KJV) Well, the Bible makes the promise: “Your dead ones will live... They will rise up.” And the Bible also says: “The righteous themselves will possess the earth, and they will reside forever upon it. Isa. 26:19; Ps. 37:29 I pray that you will draw close to Jehovah in prayer and the Bible promises that “he himself will sustain you.” Ps. 55:22

Aunt Doris Peterson

May 13, 2007

My thoughts and prayers are with Grafton and Celeste. I will always lift you up in prayer.

LaToya Davis

May 12, 2007

May you rest in peace and may your family remember that you will always be an angel in all of our hearts.

Theresa Anders

May 11, 2007

Your smile is so precious. I know that you are in heaven because I can see it in you lovely face. God bless your family during this hardship.

Julia Kaleem

May 10, 2007

O lord, thank you for being the Peterson's strength when they are weak. When they feel sad and lonely, let them call on your name, and fill them with your love and promises that will never leave thier side and keep them near to you. Minister Kaleem
MOBC/Centreville VA

Rebecca Muller

May 10, 2007

She sounds like she was an amazing young woman. My heart goes out to her family. I will be holding them in my thoughts and prayers.

May 8, 2007

May you rest in peace erin.i still cant believe this happened to you. god truly gained an angel

lachelle Anderson

May 8, 2007

even tho i never met erin i still fill like i lost someone close to me..i talked to erin on myspace and anytime i was feeling down she helped me up. RIP erin peterson and you will be missed and i do love and miss you.

Felicia Edmond

May 6, 2007

My heart aches and there is not a day that goes by that I don't think of Erin although I never had a chance to meet my cousin. I am Grafton's first cousin. I am praying for Grafton and Celeste and my thoughts are always with you.

CYNTHIA FRANKLION-ROBINSON

May 4, 2007

MAY GOD BE WITH THE FAMILY OF ERIN AT THIS TIME. I KNOW WHAT IT IS LIKE TO LOSS A CHILD GOD BLESS.

Linda Long

May 4, 2007

In Sympathy
To let you know we are thinking of you and to express our sincere sympathy.

The Dunican Family

May 4, 2007

Our sympthany and Prayers are with you and your family during this very difficult time.

God Bless!

Stacey Belle

May 3, 2007

I did not know Erin but I have a friend that goes to the church that she belongs to and i want to give my condolences to you and your family. I will have you in my prayers

May 2, 2007

Still no words to express how i feel. I thought this was supposed to get easier but its not. erin you are missed so much. praying for the Peterson family, i love you

Shanna Tutt (&Family)

May 2, 2007

To Mr. & Mrs. Peterson we are still thinking and praying your strength today as we did the day we heard of Erin's passing. Her death will not be in vein and her memories will live in our heart FOREVER! May God continue to bless your family!

Bianca

May 1, 2007

Do not stand at my grave and weep.
I am not there, I do not sleep.
I am the sparkle in the snow.
I am the shredded leaves that blow.
I am the sunlight on growing grain.
I am the gentle summer rain.
I am the quiet bird at night.
Circling about; Taking flight.
So do not stand at my grave and weep.
I am not there, I do not sleep.

Annie

April 30, 2007

RISE UP SLOWLY, ANGEL

Rise up, slowly, Angel.
I cannot let you go.
Just drift softly midst the faces,
In sorrow now bent low.

Ease the searing anger,
Born in harsh unyielding truth
That Death could steal my loved one
From the glowing blush of youth.

Rise up slowly, Angel.
Do not leave me here alone,
Where the warmth of mortal essence
Lies replaced by cold, hard stone.

Speak to me in breezes
Whispered through the drying leaves,
And caress my brow with raindrops
Filtered by the sheltering trees.

Rise up slowly, Angel,
For I cannot hear the song
Which calls you through the shadows
Into the light beyond.

Wrap me in your downy cape
Of sunshine, warm with love,
And kiss a tear-stained mother's face
With moonlight from above.

Then wait for me at sunset,
Beside the lily pond,
And guide me safely homeward
To your world,which lies beyond.

Just spread your wings and take me
In reunion’s sweet embrace,
And we shall soar, together,
To a different time and place.

Phyllis James

April 30, 2007

To The Peterson Family:
I am writing this brief note to your family because I so deeply feel that when we are faced with the sudden loss of someone so very dear to us that it is one of the hardest things in our lives we will have to face. Yet, I would like to share with you something that touched my heart, it is the knowledge that God will respond to our persistent prayers to help us through any tough time such as this. At Philippians 4:6 and 7 it says that "the peace of God that excels all thought will guard your heart and your mental powers." Please know that my prayers are with you at this time and I urge you to continue to pray for strength to get through the rough moments ahead.

Wanda Officer

April 30, 2007

To The Family of Erin Peterson-My condolences goes out to your famliy. Always look to God's Word for comfort & strength to help you endure this most difficult time. Revelation 21:3,4 says:With that I heard a loud voice from the throne say: “Look! The tent of God is with mankind, and he will reside with them, and they will be his peoples. And God himself will be with them. And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.” This promise from Almighty God Jehovah is soon to come true. Know that Jehovah does care about you & that He has to power to resurrect our loved ones.(John 5:28,29)

Sharon Robinson

April 30, 2007

I shed tears as I look at such a beautiful loss. I did not know her, but Erin has such a beautiful smile, that's priceless. You are not going threw this along. Her memories are alive in many hearts. I prayed that GOD give your family strenght as you say your good bye until you see her again. Remember God has her in a safe place now. Grieve in your own way, but remember to celebrate the life of such a beautiful person. Thank God for sharing her with you. I thank God for being able to see such as nice smile. Family stay strong and Love GOD.

Lynne Shifflett

April 30, 2007

I never got to meet Erin, but I feel I knew her and the rest of your family, through Mary Canady. I worked with Mary and there wasn't a day that went by that she didn't share her love about her family members. Erin was a beautiful girl inside and out. It was awesome to know that she had such a love for God and was never ashamed to show it. If half of our teenagers today were like her, we would live in a much better place. I pray that her inspiring life would win over the lost teenagers. What a great role model!!! It was good to see that you God has blessed you with such a wonderful church family to uphold you and get you through your troubled time. God Bless!

Darlene Walker

April 29, 2007

Grafton and Celeste,
I can only imagine the impact of your loss, and I'm sure it doesn't come close to what you're feeling right now. May you grow stronger each day with His help.

Steve & Cheryl Gibson-Cook

April 29, 2007

To the family of Erin Peterson:

Truly our hearts are saddened by the loss that you have suffered. Erin was indeed a bright light...a beacon to all who knew her. We pray that you might find comfort in knowing how Erin, in the short time that you were gifted with her was able to touch the lives of so many people. May the God of love, mercy and grace comfort you at this time, may he wipe all of your tears away, bring healing to your broken hearts and spirits---So that you might live life as Erin did--with the fullness and promise that each day brings. May God bless you.

Steve Gibson & Cheryl Cook

Tyise Gray

April 28, 2007

My deepest condolences to the Peterson Family. I am so sorry for your loss. I haven't read much about Erin, just a little in magazines, she sure has a winning smile though. I just want the family to know that this tragedy is felt worldwide, we won't forget her. May Our Heavenly Father give you the comfort and strength that you need during this time of deep sadness. (2 Corinthians 1:3-6). Take care

Marie Stanley

April 28, 2007

My sincere condolences to your family.

linda peterson woods

April 28, 2007

Linda Peterson Woods of Jennings, Louisiana now residing in DeRidder, La. extends to you and the family our deepest sympathy. May God be with you and keep you . The family of Edmond and Jennie Peterson....

marie jacobs

April 28, 2007

May GOD bless the family of Erin Peterson.

Beth Milling Graham

April 28, 2007

May God be with you each day.

Joelle Corzine

April 27, 2007

May your thoughts and memories rest in piece with your wondreful soul. I hope that you have lived a great life and i hope you rest in peace with our hevenly god!

Jennifer Congleton

April 27, 2007

My prayer is that Erin be at peace; Know that God has called her home to be an angel and watch over all of us. God Bless from a Tau alumnus, Phi Sigma Pi

Stella Pollard

April 27, 2007

My heart and prayers are with you. Proverbs 3:5-6 says: Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

May God comfort you in your time of sorrow. Member of The First Baptist Church, The Plains, VA

tori smith

April 27, 2007

May God be with you and your family in your time of sorrow. Look to him for your strength in this time. Peace be with you and God Bless. I will continue to pray for your strength.

s williams

April 27, 2007

rest in peace

Reginald Miller

April 27, 2007

Peace to you and your family.

Roxanne L.

April 26, 2007

You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Wynetta Goodson

April 26, 2007

I have no words to ease your pain, I will just tell you that I am so very sorry. Death has entered my life and took my husband, brother and Mother in the same year, so I know that hurt and lonliness. You two have each other and each time I see that beautiful picture of her, I know you must be proud to call her your daughter. God Bless

Gwen feng

April 26, 2007

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

Debbie Young

April 26, 2007

God Bless her family, may she rest in peace...

SUZETTE

April 26, 2007

DEAR SISTER,
REST IN PEACE SWEET BEAUTIFUL PRECIOUS ANGEL

Bobbie Davis

April 26, 2007

Be Still

Be still like the grass on a melancholy summer day
Be still like desert shrub.

Be calm and you will hear your loved one speak, in the stillness, in the calm, their love resounds.

If you are still this promise I make, you will hear the voice of your loved one helping you along your way.

Meosha and Ty'Reese Goffney

April 26, 2007

Mr. and Mrs. Peterson

My heart go out to your family for the loss of a lovely young woman. I personally did not meet Erin, but the kind words Celeste always said about Erin, I felt like I knew her. I remember the talks Celeste and I had about how well Erin was doing and to see Celeste's face light up whenever she shared loving words about her daughter. Celeste and Grafton--you both were the perfect parents and I adore you both. My prayer for your family is that GOD will strengthen you to His Glory so that you can live a life of full of abundance with Erin living in your hearts.

A scripture to encourage your journey: I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth. The Lord is thy keeper: the Lord is thy shade upon thy right hand.
Psalms 121: 1-2 & 5 (KJV)

GOD BLESS YOU!!!!

Your sister Janis Cannady & family

April 26, 2007

Grafton,Celeste and Family

I thought this poem would help to heal and keep Erin's spirit alive.
May God keep you all in perfect peace.

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,
Where I dwell with God above.
Where there are no tears or sadness
There 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 so badly,
as part of MY big plan.
There's so much that We have to do,
to help our mortal man."

Then God gave me a list of things
He wished for me to do,
And foremost on that list of mine
Is to watch and care for you.
I will be beside you,
Every day of the week and year.
And when you're sad, I'm standing
there to wipe away the tear.
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're only human,
There's bound to be some tears.
Do not be afraid to cry,
It does relieve some pain.
Remember, there would be no flowers, without a little rain.

I wish I could tell you,
Of all that god has planned.
But if I were to tell you,
You would not understand.
One thing is for certain,
Though my life on Earth is over,
I am closer to you now,
Than I ever was before.
And to my many friends,
Trust God knows what is best.
I am not far away from you,
I'm just beyond the crest.

There are rocky roads ahead of you,
And many hills that you must climb.
Together we can do it,
Taking it one day at a time.
It was my philosophy,
And I'd like for you too,
That is, give unto the World,
So the World will give to you.
If you can help someone
Who's in sorrow or in pain,
Then you can say to God at night,
My day was not in vain.
And now I am contented
That my life, it was worthwhile.
Knowing, as I passed along the way,
I made somebody smile.

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 you feel a gentle breeze
Of wind upon your face,
That's me giving you a great big hug, or just a soft embrace.

When it's time for you to go
Remember you are not going,
You are coming home to me.
I will always love you,
From that place way up above.
I will be in touch again soon,
P.S. God sends His love.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
Copyright 1998-2007

Donna H.

April 26, 2007

I did not know Erin Peterson but my heart grieves for her family. She seemed like a lovely young woman with a promising bright future. I am the parent of an only child - a girl and I can't imagine life without her. May GOD BLESS YOU AND KEEP YOU...Donna H. - Raleigh, NC

Brian Andrew Wong

April 26, 2007

I am very sorry for your loss. I have experienced losses both anticipated and unexpected. When I was fifteen years old in my first year in high school, my mother died of melanoma at age 54 in December 2004; we were anticipating the loss. As with me, I am sure your loss is emotionally stressful for you and your family.

Your grief may ebb and flow. It has been said that each of us has this well deep inside of us that can be filled to the brim with grief. Every time we cry, we empty out some of the well. But the well fills again. The level of sorrow in your well may lessen as time passes, but it will never run dry. There will always be birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, and those days when the well seems to fill to its brim again. Allow yourself time to remember and mourn. It is part of your healing. Grief is a continuing journey.

Tess Stewart

April 26, 2007

Erin was an amazing young lady. You brought her up to be a role model to all that knew her. You have every reason to be incredibly proud. Her life was taken so senselessly. I cannot imagine what you must be going through. I hope in some way you can find comfort in knowing that you raised an incredible young lady who touched the lives of so many. I just wish I had the privilege of knowing her.

Terry Bell

April 26, 2007

Mr. & Mrs. Peterson,
What an incredible young woman Erin is! What a legacy she has left. I can see that she touched many lives. Her life was cut short here on this Earth, but she is living on forever in eternity. It saddens me to see that your family is suffering because of a horrible tragedy. I will pray for your family. I trust that God will get you through your darkest days.
Our family also lost a college aged daughter in 2005 in a tragic car accident.
If you need to talk with someone who knows what pain you are experiencing, please contact me at any time. Those who have lost a child can understand the grief you are going through at this time.
Prayerfully,
(husband John works for Raytheon in Garland)

Joey Ritchie

April 26, 2007

Our deepest sympathy goes to your family for the loss of your daughter. Our daughter, Kelley, met Erin at Tech and told us of her spirit and personality. I know you will always treasure her memory.

April 25, 2007

My family and I are so saddened by what happened to Erin and your family. Our prayers are with you all.

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