RECOMPENSE by Christina Graham (A favorite poem written by Great Grammie)
Growing old these days is no mean virtue Stretching time and circumstance. We live in bodies made by God, and nature takes its toll. I want to live--for life is sweet. To love, to care, and feel complete. But until he changes my abode, I'll live for Him while growing old. Christina changed her "abode" to heaven in 2003 at the age of 103 _____________________
A Loving Tribute (Read at the funeral service by Linda & Chris)
Mom, Grammie, and Nana, names engraved upon our hearts. Years of love and sacrifice, to her family did impart. Her love of Jesus taught us well to live a life of faith. Her Bible was a constant friend, guiding her with grace. Her church was so important, playing the organ and in choir too. Mother-Daughter banquets, ‘ round the table…closeness grew. Family times were special, at Grammie’s house you see. A hug, a meal, a caring kiss…bouncing grandchildren on her knee. Music was her pastime, our family joined in harmony. Singing carols ‘round the organ, while she played the melody. Pinochle was her game of choice, to be her partner meant sure victory. Her humble heart and joyful spirit will dwell always in our memories. Our travels were so many; in the car… giggles were not few. She named us all, three ding-a-lings, and hung three bells up too. Her legacy of recipes will touch each generation… from apple pie to homemade fudge; one for every celebration. I remember the aromas and treasure the priceless vision… Of her in a red striped apron, cheerfully serving in the kitchen. Now God has called her home, to that glorious place above. We find comfort in these memories; we are covered in her love! By Chris Goglin and Jennifer Downey ____________________
A Mother's Day Memory by Linda and Chris
This is just a little thank you for loving us so much, Taking care of twins you know, can be a little tough! But you survived our antics and taught us well of life. Years passed so quickly-- we each became a "wife." Richard and Patrick, a royal sounding pair, Two sons-in-law would stir the nest, a new life your twins to share. But this was only just the start of treasures from above, for six little grandchildren came into your heart to love. Keith and Kevin, Kathleen, and Karrie Kurt and Brian too! All came to Grammie's house for fun, when her twins had things to do. A kitchen queen is she who taught us all we know. From apple pie to midnight cake, our husband's stomachs show. As you praise God with music, tickling the keyboard every day. We thank you for the melodies, left in our hearts to stay. We love you more each passing hour, as you become greater than before. Thanks to Keith, Lynn, Kyle and Sharon your family line is blessed by four!
So in closing we would like to say, Thanks from your two little girls, on this Grand Mother's Day!
The Healing Sound of Music Dedicated to Mom and Grammie, for they have instilled within me the miracle of music!
(Read at his funeral in 2003 by Linda and Chris) Our Dad was unique in his own special way, Whether mowing the lawn, double-cutting each blade. Or filing a bill, so accurately paid. So thrifty was he...with electricity, That only one light in the hallway could be. As we all learned to conserve energy. We were born on his birthday, but he didn't mind. Three cakes and three presents ...mom was so kind. Six grandchildren arrived, he was never the same, as "Paw Paw" became a new household name. As time went on, he slowed down a bit, from fishing and boating to the old TV set. A large "32' was his pride and joy, the remote, oh how fancy, was his new toy. The one thing we prayed for over and over again, was that Dad would meet Jesus before his life's end. A prayer vigil started across many state lines. God granted our request just in time. God kept him company in his hospital bed, we know this for sure from what Dad had said. "I told Him I loved Him," were his very words, Our hearts skipped a beat when we first heard. So although we will miss him, our silver-haired Dad, And our memories will linger so long, We're happy to know just where he is, and we'll sing a new birthday song. (Look for a new testimony book coming out in 2013 that will have Paw-Paws full account of his salvation experience)