Jeremy's Reading (written by Gary)

"These are the words of my Dad:

"It was a good day to die!!! Like my hero Stonewall Jackson said on his death bed, "I have crossed over the river to rest under the shade of the trees!" I have had a fine life filled with gifts from God.

I had wonderful, loving parents who raised me right. They sacrificed to give me the most wonderful childhood imaginable. They were always there for me and no matter where life took me they gave a safe haven for me to return to. I had two fine brothers that I loved, strong men who were fit yo ride the river with. They always covered my back.

In Robbi, I had a wife better than I deserved. A fit companion for life more valuable than gold or pearls. She was and is a true "Steel Magnolia" ferocious in the protection of her family. She gave me two wonderful sons, Jeremy and Mark. They are true American warriors. They were the joy of my life and my legace. Their wives, Jennifer and Rachel, are fit partners and companions for American warriors. Their children are my gift to this old world. In them my hope is entrusted for a better world.

My in-laws have always been there in times of trouble, never intrusive, but always available. They shared their wonderful children with me for which I am eternally grateful. My nephews and neices, what a treasure you guys were! Thanks for the fun and the laughs and the privilege of being "Uncle Dune"!

I was given the opportunity to serve with strong men who were decisive and knew how to make the tough decisions and take care of business. They also were always there in times of crisis and trouble. No man could ask for better friends and comrades. I had a career that was both important and satisfying. The Louisiana Guard was both an adventure and mistress. The soldiers I served with and helped train are the best in the world. We were and are a "Band of Brothers". The opportunity to lead and serve with such people is an experience I wish everyone could have. What we did was important and necessary.

In my life, I met two true Men of God for which I am grateful: Moses Mercer and Stephen Teal. They served as guides and examples to assist me on this journey. I only wish that each of you had two such God-sent men to help you.

To my family I say, "Love one another and get on with life. Cherish it, and take the biggest bite out of it you can." To my friends, "It's been one hell of a ride and I would not have missed a minute of it. I'm glad all of you were here with me to share it."

In the lonely hours of the night watch, in the special times, when the wild geese fly south, when the woodsmoke is sweet on a cold November night, when the children sing Christmas carols, at the first green grass of spring, in the heat of a Louisiana summer afternoon, when you hear "I'm so Lonesome I Could Cry" think of me and I'll be there.

For my epitaph just say, "He was a walking contradiction, partly truth and partly fiction, taking every wrong direction on his lonely way back home." Oh yeah, as you go through the rest of your life remember, "Don't let the Bastards get you down!"

I'm where I'm supposed to be now and when ya'll cross over the river, I'll be waiting there for you under the shade of the trees. It was a good day to die!

As Jesus said on the cross, "It is finished."

Thank you

There are far too many people who worked incredibly hard on our behalf in the last week for me to attempt to call names. I trust that everyone who is taking the time to check our blog has a connection. Your comments, prayers, cards, and visits have given us joy and strength. My gratitude is immeasurable. Our loss is forever, but our grief must not be.

I will close with Gary's words in the final post.
Robbi

The Cycle of Life

The cancer has won. Despite a valiant but grueling fight, Gary had to face the final defeat in that war Monday afternoon. He now rejoices in eternal victory throught Jesus Christ our Savior.

Arrangements are:
Visitation at E. J. Fielding Funeral Home in Covington, LA Thursday from 4:00 - 7:00.
Services are in Shreveport at the Kingston Road Baptist Church Friday. A short visitation will begin at noon with services at 1:00.
Burial will be at Forest Park West in Shreveport.

Some compensation for this loss had been provided by the birth of our second granddaughter. Mikaela Rene Hammett was born around 7:30 last night! Mother and daughter(s) are doing well. Mark continues to soldier on.

Love and gratitude,
Robbi