Carlton and Jenny

What a sweet thought to know and have the assurance that when we pass from this life that we are in the presence of Jesus. Last night at around 12:30 my Grandfather breathed a deep breath with his children around him and in the next moment he was present with Christ.

There are many thoughts that have crowded my mind over the past few hours. I have many great memories of grandpa Gene. He always had a joke or a funny comment to make about everything. Before I met Carlton he was always giving me helpful tips on how to find a boyfriend like putting a little honey on my lips or wearing a little Ben Gay. The thing that I am most thankful for, however, is Grandpa’s faithfulness to Christ. Grandpa was a man concerned about the salvation of others. I have heard my dad tell many stories of my Grandpa witnessing to people around him.

The most treasured memory that I have of my grandpa happened about two years ago. He was in the ICU at Herrin Hospital after having hip surgery and then some problems with his heart. Grandpa didn’t have a living will and the there had been some discussion about what should be done if his heart were to stop or if there were more complications. My dad asked Grandpa what he wanted to do in that situation and I will never for get what he said. He said “I know that I’m going to heaven from the top of my head to the bottom of my feet and I’m ready to go.” In that moment I remember thinking how blessed I was to have a grandpa who had been faithful for so many years. Assurance like that only comes from truly knowing Christ. His life of devotion to his savior has forever impacted mine.
In this time of sadness there is also great joy. My grandpa is in the presence of Jesus, where he has wanted to be for a long time.