My grandma was a sweet, loving, Godly woman. She was filled with a joy and kindness that would warm even the coldest heart. I don’t ever remember her getting mad or upset, though when she felt strongly about a matter, she had her ways of letting you know it.  Her hugs were always soft, and she always smiled and loved to see us come over.

Her love and passion for being a Christian and serving the Lord was deep and strong, and she shared that with us through her actions and through her testimonies. You could feel the Holy Spirit’s presence with each prayer she prayed, and every testimony she gave.

She had fought a long road. She had a stroke some time last year that she recovered from, though she still struggled with her speech at times. Then, sometime during my pregnancy, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. The operation was successful, though her recovery was rough. She went through therapy and even home health, and seemed to be getting much better, but then came down with pneumonia and also suffered another stroke. And though we hoped and prayed that she would recover, her little body had gone through enough. This past Sunday, the family was called in and told it wouldn’t be much longer, maybe within the hour. We all waited as the hours passed, but she held on a little longer.

Last night, she went on Home. She’s not in pain anymore. I can imagine her walking those streets of gold, looking with amazement at the crystal seas and gates of pearl and walls of jasper. And finally, resting into the arms of the Lord.

I’ll miss her here, but I know within my heart that to have her here is selfish because I saw the pain she was in, and I wouldn’t want that for her again. I know that she is so much better now.

I love you, grandma. Thank you for the example you lived before me. Have fun up there, and give Uncle Rhett, Aunt Barbara, and Great-Grandma a big hug for us.