Yesterday I received the call that my grandfather passed away. I wrote about his health a few weeks back; the final years of his life were difficult because of
a variety of physical ailments. Although I’m certainly sad that he’s gone, I have to admit to a sense of relief as well. Knowing that he’s no longer in pain is comforting, as is the knowledge that he’s now with the Lord.
Last year I did a series of posts entitled Another Man. I’d read somewhere that in order for a boy to grow into a man, he needs the influence of another man. I spent some time reflecting on the most influential men in my life. I couldn’t help but honor the influence of my grandfather, which I did in a post called Another Man, Number Four. As I read back over that post, I realize that I wrote it exactly one year ago yesterday; a year to the day prior to my grandfather’s passing. Yesterday was also a significant day as it was my grandparents’ anniversary. I’m just taking a guess, but I’d say it was something like 70 years ago yesterday that my grandparents were married. I’d like to think that he’s somehow reunited with her even now. I’d like to think that after 20 years, he’s finally reunited with his son, my father. And I’d like to think they’re all anxiously awaiting our arrival as well.
Tuesday will be one of the great honors of my life: I’ll preach my grandfather’s funeral. Strange as it sounds, I’m looking forward to it. I want the chance to publicly remember my grandfather’s life of enduring faithfulness. I pray that God will give me the strength and the words to adequately memorialize the patriarch of our family.
We all miss you, Grandaddy. But I know we’ll see you again soon.
already & not yet 
That is a great tribute! I am new to your blog–found you through Kenny Simpson’s blog. I went back and read your “Another Man” tributes. What a great concept! One of my greatest regrets is allowing people who have influenced me to pass from this life without making them aware of how much I appreciate them–often not knowing it myself until after they were gone. I am trying to do better. It is not complex. But when you are raised in a family that doesn’t verbalize emotions, it is very difficult. Your blog has been a great example and encouragement. It sounds like your grandfather was a man who could express his love freely. That is a great legacy. I know you will honor him on Tuesday. I wish I could be there.
Sorry about your loss, I know he is in a better place. I know you will do a great job preaching his funeral Tues. We are all of proud of you and I know he would be proud of you. My granddad is 94 and so ready to be with his bride my grandmother. They were married 1 week shy of 63 years. We love youall and our thoughts and prayers are with you.
I’ll never forget your grandfather. All the times he made us late to school…because he just didn’t want to stop talking to you. I always enjoyed my encounters with him. He was a great man and I know he was a great influence in your life as well. I wish I could be there to help comfort you and your family during this time of loss. If there’s anything I can do, let me know.
I’m sorry for your loss, Jason. Grandparents are special people. No matter how many years we are blessed with them, it never seems like enough. Its great to know we’ll have eternity with them. You’ll do a great job Tuesday even if you just read the blogs you’ve written of your Grandaddy.
Jason,It was in fact, Grandmother and Granddaddy’s 70th wedding anniversary on his passing. Roger told him earlier in the day to go on and be with his bride, that she was waiting on him, on their anniversary. He died moments later 🙂
Love you bro. Be praying for peace through these days.
Thanks for all the thoughts and prayers, guys.