I feel the need to post this blog to help my heart heal, my memories stay alive and bring closure to what may be the end of an earthly life but a beginning to a new life. This week, my Granddaddy went to heaven after 89 busy years here on earth. As I reflect on his life and the effect he had on mine, I know he loved me, I know that the man he was helped to shape me.
I recall the stories he told of his time as a young man, and the simplicity of life (although most of us today couldn't do what they did back then). The times were tough but the family ties were strong. The work was hard but in the end, the satisfaction of a hard days work and a loving family at home was worth the sweat that fell from his brow that day or the sore muscles that were awaiting him the next. The routine of his daily life never seemed to stray far from what he had always known; breakfast, read the ENTIRE newspaper and then get to work on doing something.
Growing up although I never fully understood his way of thinking, he didn't share much information but he always knew what he wanted the outcome to be, that outcome was security; security for his family, their future and his own peace of mind. He worked hard all his life, even in "retirement" he remained busy with different things only resting in the evening after the sun went down. But I know now his mind never stopped churning on what he was going to do the next day, the next week or the next month. He always had something in the works. Look in our family dictionary and look up the word Responsible - the definition is Dougie. My husband used to say that his mind needed to be placed in a glass box and only broke in case of emergency. Minds and a memory as good as his were are few and far between. He rarely forgot a name, face or person. His mind was in tacked and as sharp as it ever was up until the day he passed.
Precious Memories are all I have now of one of the greatest men I will ever know. I know he's upstairs looking down on us, watching over us all the while meeting up with old friends and family and tinkering on something while waiting to see us again. He touched many people in many different ways. He left an impression on his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and extended family.
We love you Granddaddy and we will never forget you, your lessons, or the example you have left for us. "Thank you for coming" and sharing your life with us. We were blessed to have you and proud to call you Granddaddy. May your rest be peaceful until we meet again.
Thank you to everyone who has put up a prayer for our family, sent flowers, food, and condolences.
