Yesterday, I mentioned our family is, once again, engulfed in the grieving process. My heart is filled with sadness, and my head, with details of trying to arrange help for our kids as we prepare to leave town for a few days. I didn’t know whether I’d be here today, but due to the graciousness of my dear sister-in-law, Kelly, I am here, sharing again with you. I’m here because I wanted to introduce a very special family member, our nephew and cousin, Tony. Tony died Tuesday morning, unexpectedly. Just days earlier, he was out on the golf course with his family, seeming even more vivacious than usual, and on Mother’s Day, loving up his mother with his smiles. His parents, twin brother, Michael, and all those who knew him and were blessed by his presence miss him greatly. It is hard to convey the depth of the hole left in his wake. Tony was never able to walk or talk for himself, but he showed us that those things are not necessary for one to be vibrantly and fully human. I hope these photos will give you a glimpse into the soul of this beautiful boy, who graced our lives for 11 years, and that his smile will brighten your day.
I asked Kelly to share a little about life with Tony. She described him as a “truly wonderful and patient child” who was “filled with joy and light.” She said he dealt with his limitations without complaint, and loved watching Elmo and listening to music, as well as swimming and going on golf-cart rides. “He was fun to be around, and was just so happy all the time,” she added. “We are blessed to have had him in our lives. Our hearts are broken because we miss him but we believe he is running and singing in heaven. He is free.”
Thanks for allowing me to share this bit of our Tony with you. Here is a website of a camp Tony attended in the summertime. There are so many great organizations doing wonderful things for kids like Tony.
Dear Tony, we miss you so much! We are so sad you had to go. Thank you for sharing yourself with us these past years. You will be part of us forever and ever…
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Beautiful pictures and I’m glad she had Mother’s Day with him.
Roxanne, I’m so sorry about Tony. My prayers for you and the rest of his family.
I’m sorry for your loss – it’s so sad.
Thanks gals. Like Missy said, it’s sad. It just is. But somehow, knowing you all are out there caring gives me a great deal of comfort. I heard from Troy’s mom today and she might read part of this posting at the funeral. If so, I would be honored. He was such a beautiful boy. My mother heart is continuing to break for his mother and father.
Oh Roxane, this post made me weep. What a beautiful child. I’m certain that he is with God now,and to quote an Alan Jackson song, he “flew up to heaven on the wings of angels and is walking with Jesus saying, don’t worry about me.”
My prayers,
Marie
Marie, here’s something really nice to counter those tears (besides the other post that made you smile): Troy and his brother met up with Kelly’s (Tony’s mother) high school friends on the plane. They are all a great distance from Mississippi and have families of their own, but they flew down to be with her following the loss of her son. What a wonderful gathering is occurring right now, and Tony has drawn them together. Even though under sad circumstances, I know there will be stories aplenty of the life he has brought to all, and that will be healing. Still wishing I could be there…