In Memory of My Dear Husband
William David Montero
August 8, 1938 - February 1, 2011

How We Survive

If we are fortunate, 
we are given a warning. 
If not, 
there is only the sudden horror, 
the wrench of being torn apart; 
of being reminded 
that nothing is permanent, 
not even the ones we love, 
the ones our lives revolve around. 

Life is a fragile affair. 
We are all dancing 
on the edge of a precipice, 
a dizzying cliff so high 
we can't see the bottom. 

One by one, 
we lose those we love most 
into the dark ravine. 

So we must cherish them 
without reservation. 
Now. 
Today. 
This minute. 
We will lose them 
or they will lose us 
someday. 
This is certain. 
There is no time for bickering. 
And their loss 
will leave a great pit in our hearts; 
a pit we struggle to avoid 
during the day 
and fall into at night. 

Some, 
unable to accept this loss, 
unable to determine 
the worth of life without them, 
jump into that black pit 
spiritually or physically, 
hoping to find them there. 

And some survive 
the shock, 
the denial, 
the horror, 
the bargaining, 
the barren, empty aching, 
the unanswered prayers, 
the sleepless nights 
when their breath is crushed 
under the weight of silence 
and all that it means. 

Somehow, some survive all that and, 
like a flower opening after a storm, 
they slowly begin to remember 
the one they lost 
in a different way... 

The laughter, 
the irrepressible spirit, 
the generous heart, 
the way their smile made them feel, 
the encouragement they gave 
even as their own dreams were dying. 

And in time, they fill the pit 
with other memories 
the only memories that really matter. 

We will still cry. 
We will always cry. 
But with loving reflection 
more than hopeless longing. 

And that is how we survive. 
That is how the story should end. 
That is how they would want it to be. 

© Mark Rickerby

In Memory of My Daddy
William David Montero
August 8, 1938 – February 1, 2011 

I remember the times of laughter,
I remember the times of tears. 
These are the precious memories
My heart will hold so dear. 

Gone are the days of sickness, 
Gone is the pain and fear. 
My Daddy’s with his blessed Savior now
For all the coming years. 

They are walking streets of Gold
And communing hand in hand. 
My Daddy’s home is now in Heaven, 
That blessed promised land. 

So I'll dry my eyes and praise the Lord
For the plan that He has made
That takes us from this world of pain
And brings a brighter day. 

I will cry when my heart needs to
But I'll let laughter come again
And I know that we'll be with my Daddy one day
When God fulfills His plan. 


Tammy

HOPE FOR TOMORROW

My heart was so heavy
With sadness and sorrow.
The day was so dark
I could not see tomorrow.
Hope seemed so dim
Through the tears that I cried.
I could not see You Lord
The day that my Daddy died.

I remembered Your promise
To be by my side.
For always You’re with me
In You I abide.
In the midst of the darkness
Your hand touched my soul.
You drew me so close
And made me whole.

There are times that I cry
Alone with just me.
When the silence comes crashing
Like a storm-troubled sea.
There are times that I laugh now
When I remember the years.
That my family and I shared together
Through the good times and tears.

The peace oh Lord
The memories You bring.
Fills my life with hope
Make my heart strings sing.
Draw me close to Your side
And lead me gently on.
Give me hope for tomorrow
Till the dark turns to dawn.

Open my heart Lord
Let out the sorrow.
Pour in your spirit
And hope for tomorrow.
I need Your touch Lord
On my heart this hour.
Fill me with Your love
With Your healing power.

Love, Tammy

To Tammy,

What does "letting go" mean? 
This phrase is often misunderstood. 
Does it mean forgetting, 
letting go of our memories? 
Not at all.  Does it mean letting go of a relationship with our deceased loved ones?  No!  Our relationship is changed, not ended.  "Letting go" refers to the time in our healing journey when we are ready to gently open our tightly closed fists.  In doing so we let go of our pain.  We do not need it anymore. 

Love,
Mom

-- Sandi Caplan and Gordon Lang,
in Grief's Courageous Journey: A Workbook

To the Montero Family,

"It is the miracle of memory 
that transforms a houseful of stuff 
into a heritage of love and connection."

— Emily Barnes, in 
Timeless Treasures: The Charm and Romance of Treasured Memories

Dearest Tammy and Christian,

I came to the end of my journey
and I traveled my last weary mile.  
Just forget, if you can, that I ever frowned and remember only the smile.
Forget unkind words I have spoken but remember the good I have done.
Forget that I've stumbled and blundered
and sometimes fell by the way.
Remember I have fought some hard battles and won, ere the close of the day.
Do not grieve for my going, I would not have you sad for a day.  
In summer just gather some flowers
and remember the place where I lay,
and come in the shade of the evening
when the sun paints the sky in the west.
Stand for a few moments beside me
and remember only my best. 

All my Love sent from above, 
Dad and Grandfather

The Day My Daddy Died

I sat alone and stared all night,
At pictures that he took,
Each one I saw would pierce my heart, 
With empty, desperate gloom.

Two months and a week ago today, my Daddy died, 
And I cannot seem to live the same, 
It took away my prayers of hope, 
And now I’ve acquainted pain, 
This pain will die with my last breath.

Each time I think of him, 
And of the days as a family we've spent,
Together, I can't bring them back,
Nor will I find again 
My Daddy’s great company. 
It's over, his life's finished here on earth
And we are left to live.

How long? - I care not. I don't know. 
Today it dawned on me, 
That once we die, we’ll walk the road, 
My Daddy took before us. 

Am I afraid? I am not, 
A hope is in my heart, 
We'll walk the road He took and hope
Our family will restart

When our time comes, 
That day when we, will leave this weary world
To meet my Daddy at Pearly Gates
The place where I was told, 

He'll wait for us, we'll meet again, 
The grandest place of all,
He'll take us to his neighborhood, 
We'll see those things he told

Await us, Those, who found the key
To Heaven's vast domain. 
That key, the one and only one, 
Is Jesus' Precious Name. 


To My Dearest Family
In Memory of My Daddy

Love, Tammy

Time To Say Goodbye

My thoughts keep drifting to the day
You passed away from me,
I replay the scene, perhaps a change,
But the same result I see.
I call your name just in case,
But there is no reply,
Why did you have to go away?
Why did you have to die?
Driving to your house at night,
I hope to see you in the chair,
But you’re not there,
so I call to you, Daddy
Then I decide to wait.
Finally I call Daddy again
Again still no reply
Your smell still fills the air,
The memories are still so fresh,
It still feels though like you’re  still right there
Months have passed and tears have not stopped,
And so much sadness is still in my heart,
As well as anger for your loss,
Since the day we were made to part.
They say it’s time to let you go,
I’m really going to try,
But I will never say goodbye

I miss you Daddy

Love, Tammy

There's Something My Family Should Know

In Honor of my Daddy
William David Montero
August 8, 1938 – February 1, 2011

God reached down his loving hand and chose to lead you away
For us left here without you, it is two months and a week today

For God saw you suffering and wanted to set you free
He said, My child you'll suffer no more, if you come to live with me

Without hesitation, you said, I'll go
But first, let me take a second God, for "There’s something my family should know"

God said My child please talk to them and tell them what’s in your heart
Then I will take your graceful hand, and you and I shall part

You said, I love each one of you with everything that I am
But now my time on earth is done, and I must trust in him

Cry not for me dear family, keep a smile upon your face 
Remember, I’ll be in Heaven, a beautiful and loving place

I’m not afraid, and I'll be at peace
For my sickness and pain I know will cease

And When I take my journey home and get to Heaven's door
I'll be forever happy, and tears I'll shed no more

I’ll take my place in Heaven, and I'll stand right by your side
Please tell me what your weakness is, in me you can confide

I’ll give you love and all my strength whenever you're in need 
I'll not be just your Husband, Father, & Grandfather, for an Angel I will be
For when I chose to take God's hand, He chose to set me free 

HE IS THE GREAT "I AM"

To My Dearest Family

Love, Tammy

Hugs from my Daddy from Heaven

When you feel a gentle breeze
Caress you when you sigh
It’s a hug sent from my Daddy from Heaven
Our loved one way up high.

If a soft and tender raindrop
Lands upon your nose
He’s added a small kiss
As fragile as a rose.

If a song you hear fills you
With a feeling of sweet love
It’s a hug sent from my Daddy from Heaven
Our loved one up above.

If you awaken in the morning
To a bluebird’s chirping song
It’s music sent from my Daddy from Heaven
To cheer us all day long.

If tiny little snowflakes
Land upon your face
It’s a hug sent from my Daddy from Heaven
Trimmed with Angel lace.

So keep the joy in your heart
If you get lonely my dear family
Hugs that are sent from my Daddy from Heaven
Will mend our broken hearts.


To My Dearest Family


Love, Tammy

I Thank You Daddy, Today

Thoughts of you come drifting back
Within this heart of mine
I take a trip to yesterday
Another day in time

A time when I was growing up
And you were always there
Put to the test, you did your best
You handled things with care

For holding out, not giving in
When others got their way
For saying no, my strength did grow
I thank you Daddy, today

To you, I owe so many thanks
For teaching right from wrong
For many lectures you bestowed
I sing a different song

I thank you for the sacrifice
Of working everyday
For all you gave in your life
I’m thanking you today

I thank you for your faith so strong
For many days in church
For leading me to Jesus Christ
I did not have to search.

For all I am, I owe to you
You surely led the way
So many lessons learned in life
I thank you Daddy, today.


Love,
Tammy

Daddy:

On Saturday, April 2, 2011, I began the layout and design for the placement of a very special rose garden which I am creating in your memory.  I remembered how much you loved your rose garden.  When you became ill and unable to maintain and care for your rose garden, the garden had to be cleared away.  I remembered when I had the task of having to clear it away because you asked me to do this.  This broke my heart because I know how you much you loved your rose garden.  

I decided that I would create a very large and very special rose garden in your memory.  I will do my very best to maintain and care for it just the way I know you would have cared for your garden.  It took me nine hours to clear the area of grass where I decided to place this garden by using just a shovel and a hoe.   Unlike any other garden that I have created, this one appeared to be somewhat easier to do because I was doing it for you and in your memory.  But, on the other hand, I think that you were there helping me to make it a little easier, weren’t you?   Thank you, Daddy.    


“The Rose Garden for My Daddy”

Created in Memory of My Daddy
William David Montero
August 8, 1938 – February 1, 2011


In my Rose Garden of memories
I see you standing there
An angel in disguise
Who taught me how to care
I long to hear your voice
For real not in my dreams
I am missing you so much these days
How empty my world seems
People say time heals all wounds
That someday the pain will subside
But Daddy I can tell you
I think they must have lied
The emptiness I am feeling now
Is strong and I am weak
These days go by without you
So dreary and so bleak
In my Rose Garden of memories
I know you'll always be
For though you're gone
From this mortal world
In my heart you'll always be

I love you, Daddy!

Love,
Tammy

In Memory of You

I hold you in my dreams at night
I call you in the dawn;
And yet I have to tell myself
That you are really gone.
That you are gone beyond recall 
Forever and a day;
And there is nothing I can do
And nothing I can say. 
You were so wonderful to your family 
So gentle, sweet, and kind; 
It seemed that we were always 
In your heart and in your mind.
No, there is nothing I can say except a loving prayer;
That God will bless you, dearest Daddy and keep you in His care. 
And in my silent sorrow there is nothing I can do;
Except to live a better life in memory of you.


Daddy, today is two months since you have gone to your Heavenly Home above.  I still miss you so very much.  Today is April 1st, an even harder day for me.  You used to love April Fool's Day.  You could not wait to get one of us on this day.  I am sure that you are trying to get one of us right now, aren't you?   That's okay.........we'll be waiting.  Daddy, be careful up there, okay?  Someone in Heaven may be trying to get you on this April Fool's Day.    We love you Daddy!

Love,
Tammy

He’s Not Really Gone

God has made a time for everyone,
God has made a plan,
For every man created,
Shaped by His loving hand.
Everyone is made for each their own,
Different from others down to the bone.
Everyone born to do their own task,
When the task is fulfilled, many breaths come to last.
Dying though is not the end of living,
Because the afterlife is just another task beginning.
My Daddy has fulfilled his life living task,
So he's off to his new life, here on earth he just passed.
He's gone away but not really, his new task just begun,
Life holds many journeys, walking on Earth is just one.
Why God chose my Daddy now I’ll never understand,
He passed away with many years, I guess that was God's plan.
Remember my Daddy’s off to a better place after being on Earth all these years,
Resting from all the hurt he's been through, all the pain and the tears.
He'll never be gone to his family whom he brought happiness to and touched their hearts,
He'll just be away, we’re all just temporarily apart. 
Well my Daddy is gone and my message is to all of you,
Honestly, he's not gone because my Daddy will always live on……in all of us.


To my Dearest Family

Love, Tammy

Missing Daddy

I awake each morning to start a new day;
But the pain of losing you never goes away.
I go about the things that I have to do; 
And as the hours pass I think again of you.
I want to call you and just hear your voice;
Then I remember that I have no choice.
For you are not there and now my heart cries;
Just to see you again to tell you goodbye.
To say Daddy I love you and I always will;
And hope that much of you, in me you've instilled.
The day that you left I just didn't know;
That you were going where I couldn't go.
And now all my memories of you are so dear;
But gosh, how I miss you and wish you were here.
Who now can hear me when I need to cry?
It so hard to tell you "Daddy goodbye."
Someday I know all will be well;
And I'll see you again with stories to tell.
Of how you were missed and how we have grown;
And how good it is to finally be home.
Until then my memories of you I'll keep near;
And I'll pass them on to those who are dear.
I miss you Daddy.


Love, 
Tammy

In Memory of My Daddy
William David Montero
August 8, 1938 – February 1, 2011


The Four Candles

The first candle represents our grief.
The pain of losing you is intense.
It reminds us of the depth of our love for you.

This second candle represents our courage.
To confront our sorrow,
To comfort each other,
To change our lives.

This third candle we light in your memory.
For the times we laughed,
The times we cried,
The times we were angry with each other,
The silly things you did,
The caring and joy you gave us.

This fourth candle we light for our love.
We light this candle that your light will always shine.

Daddy, it will be two months tomorrow 
Since you have gone to rest in your “Heavenly Home” above, 
I will share this night of remembrance
with our family and friends.
We cherish the special place in our hearts
that will always be reserved for you.
We thank you for the gift
your living brought to each of us.
We love you.
We miss you.
We will always remember you, Daddy.


Love,
Tammy

Safely Home

I am home in Heaven, dear ones?
Oh, so happy and so bright!?
There is perfect joy and beauty?
In this Everlasting Light.?
All the pain and grief are over!?
Every restless yearning past;?
I am now at peace forever,?
Safely Home in Heaven at last.?
Dear ones, do not grieve so sorely,
For I love you dearly still;
Try to look beyond earth’s shadows,
Pray to trust Our Father’s Will.?
When your work is completed,?
He will gently call you Home;?
Oh! the rapture of that meeting!?
Oh, the joy to see you come!


To My Loving Family

Love, Your Guardian Angel

Crossing Over

Oh, please don't feel guilty,
It was just my time to go,
I see you are still feeling sad,
And the tears just seem to flow.

We all come to earth for our lifetime,
And for some it's not many years,
I don't want you to keep crying,
You are shedding so many tears.

I haven't really left you,
Even though it may seem so,
I have just gone to my heavenly home,
And I'm closer to you than you know.

Just believe that when you say my name,
I'm standing next to you,
I know you long to see me,
But there's nothing I can do.

But I'll still send you messages,
And hope you understand,
That when your time comes to “cross over,”  
I'll be there to take your hand.

Love,
Your Guardian Angel

A Fallen Limb

A limb has fallen from the family tree.
I keep hearing a voice that says, "Grieve not for me”.
Remember the best times, the laughter, the song. 
The good life I lived while I was strong.
Continue my heritage, I'm counting on you. 
Keep smiling and surely the sun will shine through. 
My mind is at ease, my soul is at rest.
Remembering all, how I truly was blessed.
Continue traditions, no matter how small.
Go on with your life, don't worry about falls
I miss you all dearly, so keep up your chin.
Until the day comes we're together again

Love, 
Your Guardian Angel

Losing a Father

Losing a Father is very sad
There is nothing you can do
But face life without your dad
And the emptiness in you

Your heart will form a hole
That can never be repaired
Memories eat upon your soul
Your mind will not be spared

He will always be there
In the back of your mind
The way he used to care
Stern and yet so kind

The pain will never really fade
Part of you is gone
Although you wish he had stayed
You know you must go on 

To My Dearest Family
In Memory of My Daddy

Love, 
Tammy

To My Dearest Family
In Loving Memory of My Daddy

Those we love don't go away,
They walk beside us every day,
Unseen, unheard, but always near,
Still loved, still missed and very dear.
Those we love remain with us
For love itself lives on,
And cherished memories never fade,
Because a loved one's gone.
Those we love can never be,
More than a thought apart,
Far as long as there is memory,
They'll live on in the heart.
A gift for such a little while,
Our loss just seems so wrong,
I wish you would not have left us,
It’s with loved ones you belong.
Gone yet not forgotten,
Although we are apart,
Your spirit lives within us,
Forever in our hearts.
No farewell words were spoken,
No time to say goodbye,
You were gone before we knew it,
And only God knows why.
If love could have saved you,
you would have lived forever.


Love,
Tammy

In Memory of My Daddy
William David Montero
August 8, 1938 – February 1, 2011

Dear Daddy:

What would I give to clasp your hand
Your happy face to see,
To hear your voice, and see your smile
That meant so much to me.

The rolling stream of life rolls on
But still the vacant chair,
Recalls the love, the voice, the smile
Of the one who once sat there.

Nothing can ever take away
The love a heart holds dear,
Fond memories linger every day
Remembrance keeps you near.

You had a nature you could not help loving
And a heart that was purer than gold,
And to those who knew you and loved you
Your memory will never grow cold.

More and more each day I miss you
Friends may think the wound is healed,
But they little know the sorrow
Lying within my heart concealed.

You’re not forgotten, Daddy dear
Nor ever shall you be,
As long as life and memory last
I shall remember thee.

Your memory is as dear today
As in the hour you passed away.

The blow was great, the shock severe
I little thought your death so near,
Only those that have lost can tell
The sorrow of parting without farewell.

I often think of days gone by
When we were all together,
A shadow o’er our lives is cast
Our loved one is gone forever.

And have you gone, forever gone
And left us here to weep,
Till we are called to follow you
And in the grave to sleep.

Yet since you could no longer stay
To cheer us with your love,
We hope to meet you again in
The bright world above.

One precious to our hearts has gone
The voice we loved is stilled,
The place made vacant in our home
Can never more be filled.

Our Father in His wisdom called
The one His love had given, 
And so on earth the body lay 
His soul is safe in Heaven.

No one knows how much I miss you
No one knows the bitter pain
I have suffered since I lost you
Life has never been the same.

In my heart your memory lingers
Sweetly tender, fond and true,
There is not a day, Dear Daddy
That I do not think of you.

I think of you in silence
No eyes can see me weep,
But still within my aching heart
Your memory I keep.

Silent is the voice we loved to hear
Too far away for sight or speech,
But not too far for thought to reach
Sweet to remember you who once was here
And who, though absent, is just as dear.

I miss you so very much Daddy!

Love,
Your Daughter, Tammy

Save Us a Seat

Daddy, it's been almost two months since you went away,
Daddy, I miss you more and more each day.
It seems like a dream that never ends,
You were loved so much by your family and friends.
I know in my heart, you're in a better place,
But it's hard not to see your wonderful face. 
I knew in my heart that the die was cast, 
The Lord was calling you home at last. 
But I still had hopes, a miracle would be,
And you would get well, so I could see, 
You once again, the way you were before 
That illness took you far from shore. 
I guess I'm being selfish for wanting you here, 
God needed you more, away up there. 
So goodbye, my Daddy, thanks for the ride 
Some day we all will meet on the other side,
Until that time, when we shall meet, 
We all love you Daddy, save us a seat. 

Love,
Tammy

As Long As We Are Breathing...

I awoke so early at the dawn of the new day,
Hoping the nightmare would just go away,
But the tears started flowing, as they did the night before,
Why did you leave us? What was this for?
I thought I couldn't face another broken day,
I hated the reality that you were taken away,
It's just not fair that this has happened to our family,
And it started to scare me that I had lost my trust.
So I looked to the heavens and I asked God "Why"?
Why in the world would my Daddy have to die?
I didn't get an answer that day or the next,
And, I guess looking back; the question was too complex.
It took a while to realize that you weren't really gone,
That as long as we were breathing your spirit would live on,
So life took on a different meaning, we are living for us and you,
Our souls inside one body, our spirits and one host.
Now, with every breath we take, we take for us and you,
And with every song we sing, we’re singing it for all of us,
And there's no doubt in my mind, with the prayers that
I have prayed,
That the wings that you are wearing, grow larger every day.
The strength that you are giving us, on our journey
here on earth,
Reflects through us, back at you, on your journey of rebirth,
Stand strong by God, you're in good hands,
and we’ll try to stand strong as well,
And together we'll journey through these lives,
in each other's hearts, parallel.

Love,
Your daughter, Tammy

To My Dearest Wife, Daughter, Son, Grandchildren, and Great Grandchildren

Takin’ The Train To Heaven

Heaven’s train has come ’a callin’
The conductor tells me “time to go”
I hadn’t seen it comin’
I wish that I’d ‘a known

Soft smoke is billowin’, billowin’ up
The train whistles a fluted sound
And up eternity’s track we go
Leavin’ this earthly ground

I’d like to have known my passage was booked
The fare paid…my departure planned
‘Cause I was just as surprised as you
When from life-to-death I spanned

So here I stand on the departure docks
And into eternity I’ll go
But I’ll leave part of my heart with you
So you will always know…

THAT I LOVE YOU

I’ve found my seat now on the train
It’s feelin’ more like home
As for baggage…we all have none
C’ept for love n’ memories we’ve known

My ticket’s punched and handed back
After searchin’ my heart and face
I find it reads: 

“FIRST CLASS TO HEAVEN”
“THROUGH CHRIST’S ATONING GRACE”

And suddenly I’m feelin’ so much calm
‘Bout where I’ve been and where I’m goin’
And I can trust you all to God’s sweet grace
For his mercies you’ll be knowin’

I can see you all so clearly
As the train chugs n’ we depart
You’re all remainin’ so close to me
Where does Life end n’ Heaven start?

I still can reach out n’ touch you
So I’ll be sendin’ my love each day
Your sorrow’s gonna ease with time
Yet my deep love will always stay

The train begins to slow down now…
We’re arrivin’ at eternity
As heav’nly mansions come into view…
Glorious as they can be!

So don’t be filled with sadness…
For I’m here, in peaceful abode
The train simply brought me back to my God
And the joys of my heavenly home

Copyright © 2007 Jilchristy Dee.  All Rights Reserved

My Daddy, My Guiding Light

Daddy, you’re like the sun to me,
a sure thing, I always feel that you are still here
a beaming light and warmth on my life.
Whatever is good in me today,
I owe to your wisdom, your patience,
your strength, your love.
You taught me by example,
as a role model,
how to be my own person,
how to believe in myself,
instructing me without controlling me.
Even when we disagreed,
We still held together,
so our bond was never broken.
I understand what you did for me,
and I am so grateful that I had you
as my solid foundation, my rock.
I respected you then, I respect you now,
 I admired you then, I admire you now, 
I loved you then, I love you now,
You were my guiding light then
And you still are my guiding light now, my Daddy.


I love you Daddy and I miss you so much!


Love,
Tammy

My Daddy - Our Sunshine, Our Hope, Our Loved One, Our Everything

It was on that awful February morning
God took you home to heaven to stay
I cried and cried when you went away.

But alas, I have come to learn
It was Him calling, it was your turn.

For God was missing an Angel so He chose you
Best Darling Angel we ever knew.

We understand it just had to be.
God has taken you to heaven and now you are free free free.

Free from pain
Free to run, free to dance and play again.

We really are missing you
We miss all the little things you do.

But we understand
You are there in His precious hand.

Go prepare a place for us
Someday we will join you that we must.

Go now my dearest Daddy
We are thinking of you in every way.

We all hated to see you go
But alas you must rest so.

Into Gods hands we place the very best
Rest now dearest Daddy and twice be blessed
You brought us so much happiness.

Till we meet again
we will think of you often.

On that you can depend
You were our very special angel, husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend.

We understand you were only on loan
Now dearest Daddy you are home.

In the somber light of the waning moon
God took you home way too soon

It's losing you we regret
God had His plans for you already set.



On behalf of Your Loving Family


Love, 
Your Daughter, Tammy

To my Family, from Heaven 

I just wanted you to know,
That I'll be with you wherever you go. 
I've gotten my wings and learned how to fly,
And I'll dry your tears whenever you cry. 
Though I've gone away and it seems we're apart,
You will forever be my soul and my heart. 
The love that we shared will not go astray,
For deep in my heart it will always stay. 
You held me close when I was filled with pain, 
And your smile gave me sunshine when my life filled with rain. 
You guided me when no one else could,
You protected me when no one else would. 
We've shared so much that mere words can't express,
How knowing you has made me feel truly blessed. 
So please my dear family, fret not for me,
For now my soul is truly free. 
So think of me often, as much as you can, 
And I'll always be there to hold your hand. 
I'll be your angel and guide you through life, 
I'll give you comfort through torment and strife. 
So thanks dear family again and again,
Thank you always for being my family and my friend.

Love, “Your Guardian Angel”

How We Survive

If we are fortunate,
we are given a warning.
If not,
there is only the sudden horror,
the wrench of being torn apart;
of being reminded
that nothing is permanent,
not even the ones we love,
the ones our lives revolve around.
Life is a fragile affair.
We are all dancing
on the edge of a precipice,
a dizzying cliff so high
we can't see the bottom.
One by one,
we lose those we love most
into the dark ravine.
So we must cherish them
without reservation.
Now.
Today.
This minute.
We will lose them
or they will lose us
someday.
This is certain.
There is no time for bickering.
And their loss
will leave a great pit in our hearts;
a pit we struggle to avoid
during the day
and fall into at night.
Some,
unable to accept this loss,
unable to determine
the worth of life without them,
jump into that black pit
spiritually or physically,
hoping to find them there.
And some survive
the shock,
the denial,
the horror,
the bargaining,
the barren, empty aching,
the unanswered prayers,
the sleepless nights
when their breath is crushed
under the weight of silence
and all that it means.
Somehow, some survive all that and,
like a flower opening after a storm,
they slowly begin to remember
the one they lost
in a different way...
The laughter,
the irrepressible spirit,
the generous heart,
the way their smile made them feel,
the encouragement they gave
even as their own dreams were dying.
And in time, they fill the pit
with other memories
the only memories that really matter.
We will still cry.
We will always cry.
But with loving reflection
more than hopeless longing.
And that is how we survive.
That is how the story should end.
That is how they would want it to be.


To my Dearest Family


Love,
Tammy

God's Will

Not by choice but by God's Will
We've been left with memories that will only fill
A part of us that's left behind
Like dust in the wind and soon to find
That although we have faith, the day has come
That this dream is real and we're no longer numb
The presence of what I know in my heart
Will keep us together, never to part
Your smile has graced us to no end
A time for all of us to begin
Laughing, loving, caring for each
We no longer search, it's within our reach
You have blessed us all with something we lack
We will learn from you and always look back
God's Will has left us with a part of you
That will grace each day with a morning dew
To wake up to butterflies fluttering about
And the knowledge that we are not without
Your smile, your laughter, your love, your appeal
This, my dear Daddy, must be God's Will.

Love, 
Your Daughter, Tammy

A Perfect World

In a perfect world,
death would never be,
Love would be forever,
and last eternally.
In a perfect world,
you’d still be by our side,
lighting up our happy lives,
You never would have died.
In a perfect world,
sadness would not be found,
Love and life and happiness
forever would abound.
Perhaps that perfect world,
awaits us when we die,
A world where eternal bliss,
is found in heaven’s sky.
We’ll cling to faith and hope,
for God is a God of love,
and in His time we’ll join you,
in a perfect world above.

On behalf of Your Loving Family
Love, Tammy

You Will See Them Someday

When you lose someone, it can be hard to take 
The pain that you feel when your heart has to break 
The memories you keep are all in your mind 
As you search your soul for more to find 
The way their skin felt and the smell of their hair
As you keep thinking over and shedding a tear 
The years may pass and memories fade to grey 
But you’re getting no younger and you'll see them someday 
Unconditional love is never forgotten 
Look deep in your heart it is there at the bottom 
Alone in the dark and sometimes in fear 
Voices from loved ones you’re hoping to hear 
More years pass and they soon fly by 
But you’re always looked upon from those in the sky 
Surrounded by clouds and pure white doves 
They listen and watch sending you love 
Just remember one thing as you sit and you pray 
They will be there to greet you and you will see them someday.

To my Dearest Family

Love,
Tammy

Memories

I feel a warmth around me
like your presence is so near,
And I close my eyes to visualize
your face when you were here.
I endure the times that our family spent together
and they are locked inside my heart,
For as long as I have those memories
our family will never be apart.
Even though we cannot speak no more
my voice is always there,
Because every night before I sleep
I have you in my prayer.

I miss you Daddy!

Love, 
Tammy

Gone Away

An Angel whispered
take my hand and
come with me
your work here is done.

I went away to a place
where there's no tears, nor sorrow
only laughter and smiles,
there will always be a tomorrow.

As I move amongst the clouds.
I'll look down and smile upon you,
while the angels
sing a heavenly song.

I am not alone
all who went before
are here
they awaited my return.

I know you'll grieve
and wish I was still there
I am there in the memories
you hold dear.

Remember how much I
love you
and know I took your
love with me.

I did not wish for 
you to cry, nor feel sad.
My pain is gone and
I am Free!

Soon you'll come to me
until then
God will be with you
Just as He's with me.


To my Loving Family

Love, “Your Guardian Angel”

I Love You Daddy

I love you Daddy with all my heart
And hate that our family should be apart
Our family’s love is a bond that can’t be broken
You may be gone but never forgotten

I remember the day you went away
The pain in my heart is every beat
But I know that eventually one day
We will all once again meet

The loss is something I can’t describe
I’m really going to miss you
One day we will all be back by your side
So we can hug and kiss you

There are no words to tell you,
Just what I’m feeling inside
The shock, the hurt, the anger
Just does not seem to subside

Things will never again be the same
And though I’m hurting quite bad
I will smile whenever I hear your name
And be so proud to remember my Dad

Rest in Peace Daddy

You are forever in my heart and always in my thoughts


Love, 
Tammy

Dear Dad

Dear Dad, We love you,
We miss you so much
Your love and your kindness
Your soft gentle touch

If we had to live life over 
We would choose you once more
If it meant losing you again
It's worth all the tears in the world.

While our hearts are now filled
With sadness and tears
We had many good memories
You will always be near

The day that you left us
Tears fell from the sky
Our hearts filled with sorrow
Your final goodbye

For years you did fight
And struggled to stay here
But you sent us a sign
When the end was quite near

Thank you for sending
That music box our way
Your soul is at peace
And not far away

Your body has died
But your spirit lives strong
In each one of us
Where it forever belongs

Your time here was short
We wish you could have stayed
But they needed you upstairs
The angels called you their way

So you spread your wings and flew
Up to heaven you went
No longer will you suffer
Down on earth here below

They didn’t hear you coming
So softly you walked
When you arrived up to heaven
I’m sure that you knocked

You struggle no longer
You are free of pain
Your mind is clear
And call us by name

You can walk and run once more
Through the woods you can bike
Drive where ever you please
Up the roads you may hike

In the breeze we hear your whisper
Feel your warmth from the sun
Upon the sky we see your reflection
In the road we see you run

Until the day comes
That we cross over too
Our family will not be complete
Until we meet that day with you

Thinking of you always and still missing you dearly
You’re always in our thoughts and forever in our hearts

Love, Tammy

In Loving Memory of My Daddy
William David Montero
August 8, 1938 – February 1, 2011


(These three beautiful songs were chosen by my Mother to be played during my Daddy’s Funeral Services on February 7, 2011)


Because You Loved Me

For all the truth that you made me see
For all the joy you brought to my life
For all the wrong that you made right
For every dream you made come true
For all the love I found in you
I'll be forever thankful baby
You're the one who held me up
Never let me fall
You're the one who saw me through-- through it all

You were my strength when I was weak
You were my voice when I couldn't speak
You were my eyes when I couldn't see
You saw the best there was in me
Lifted me up when I couldn't reach
You gave me faith 'coz you believed
I'm everything I am
Because you loved me

You gave me wings and made me fly
You touched my hand I could touch the sky
I lost my faith, you gave it back to me
You said no star was out of reach
You stood by me and I stood tall
I had your love I had it all
I'm grateful for each day you gave me
Maybe I don't know that much
But I know this much is true
I was blessed because I was loved by you

You were my strength when I was weak
You were my voice when I couldn't speak
You were my eyes when I couldn't see
You saw the best there was in me
Lifted me up when I couldn't reach
You gave me faith 'coz you believed
I'm everything I am
Because you loved me

You were always there for me
The tender wind that carried me
A light in the dark shining your love into my life
You've been my inspiration
Through the lies you were the truth
My world is a better place because of you

You were my strength when I was weak
You were my voice when I couldn't speak
You were my eyes when I couldn't see
You saw the best there was in me
Lifted me up when I couldn't reach
You gave me faith 'coz you believed
I'm everything I am
Because you loved me

You were my strength when I was weak
You were my voice when I couldn't speak
You were my eyes when I couldn't see
You saw the best there was in me
Lifted me up when I couldn't reach
You gave me faith 'coz you believed
I'm everything I am
Because you loved me

I'm everything I am
Because you loved me

By Celine Dion  




You Raise Me Up 

When troubles come and my heart burdened be; 
Then, I am still and wait here in the silence, 
Until you come and sit awhile with me. 

You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains; 
You raise me up, to walk on stormy seas; 
I am strong, when I am on your shoulders; 
You raise me up: To more than I can be. 

You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains; 
You raise me up, to walk on stormy seas; 
I am strong, when I am on your shoulders; 
You raise me up: To more than I can be. 

There is no life - no life without its hunger; 
Each restless heart beats so imperfectly; 
But when you come and I am filled with wonder, 
Sometimes, I think I glimpse eternity. 

You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains; 
You raise me up, to walk on stormy seas; 
I am strong, when I am on your shoulders; 
You raise me up: To more than I can be. 

You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains; 
You raise me up, to walk on stormy seas; 
I am strong, when I am on your shoulders; 
You raise me up: To more than I can be.

By Josh Groban 




Temporary Home

Little boy, 6 years old 
A little too used to bein' alone. 
Another new mom and dad, another school, 
Another house that'll never be home.
When people ask him how he likes this place... 
He looks up and says, with a smile upon his face, 

"This is my Temporary Home 
It's not where I belong. 
Windows and rooms that I'm passin' through. 
This is just a stop, on the way to where I'm going. 
I'm not afraid because I know this is my 
Temporary Home." 

Young mom on her own.
She needs a little help, got nowhere to go. 
She's lookin' for a job, lookin' for a way out, 
Because a half-way house will never be a home. 
At night she whispers to her baby girl, 
"Someday we'll find our place here in this world." 

"This is our Temporary Home. 
It's not where we belong. 
Windows and rooms that we're passin' through. 
This is just a stop, on the way to where we're going. 
I'm not afraid because I know this is our 
Temporary Home." 

Old man, hospital bed, 
The room is filled with people he loves. 
And he whispers don't cry for me, 
I'll see you all someday. 
He looks up and says, "I can see God's face." 

"This is my Temporary Home 
It's not where I belong. 
Windows and rooms that I'm passin' through.
This was just a stop, on the way to where I'm going. 
I'm not afraid because I know... this was 
My Temporary Home." 

This is our Temporary Home. 

By Carrie Underwood


On behalf of your Loving Family, Your Daughter

In Loving Memory of My Dear Husband
William David Montero
August 8, 1938 - February 1, 2011

Brave Warrior 
                                
Before this world had started
Before our lives began
God assigned us all our challenges
Some hard things to withstand
 
Each of us were given
Some difficult things to do
But God gave his bravest warriors
An extra burden too
 
So you were challenged with a body
That became broken and quite ill                   
But life could never take from you
A solid, determined will
 
You kept your face turned toward the sunshine
Trapped in a body that only knew rain
And chose to see the joys in life
In spite of constant pain
 
And though your body was oft’ connected
To needles, machines and tubes
You bravely faced each day with them
While expressing gratitude
 
For the chance of simply being here
Though to us it didn’t seem fair
To see someone as special as you
Suffer in a body beyond repair
 
So when you’d honorably completed
Every trial you were assigned
God chose to bring you back to him
Freeing your bright spirit and mind
 
And though we’ll miss you deeply
So cherished and loved were you
We know you’re enjoying the freedom of heaven
Enjoying things that here you couldn’t do
 
And we are certain God is happy
To have you in Heaven again
To have His brave and loving child
Close and safe with Him
 
We know you’ll continue to watch over us
For it’s something you’ve always done
And that you’ll never be too far from us
In the days and years to come
 
So Billy, sweet dreams for now…
Peacefully may you rest…
Confident in all the hearts you touched
And in all the lives you blessed
 
We do not doubt we’ll see you again 
Someday whole and completely healed
For Billy…you were one of the bravest warriors
To ever grace life’s battlefield!
 
Copyright 2007 Jilchristy Dee.  All Rights Reserved.

Heaven

A Trip To Heaven

I took a trip to heaven
But only in my mind
I wanted to know what it's like
To leave it all behind.
So I closed my eyes, and started to see
Just how beautiful heaven can be.

I could see the pearly gates of white
and behind them was the most radiant light.
I saw an angel as she was passing by
so incredibly beautiful that a tear fell from my eye.
Everyone looked perfect and with the angels they did sing
There are no earthly words to describe the beauty of their wings.

As I sat on a bench in the most incredible garden
I asked God for all of my sins to be pardoned
I took one last look at all of the beauty around
And when I opened my eyes, it was peace that I found.

Still Missing You Daddy!


Love, 
Tammy

Remember Me 

In Memory of My Daddy
William David Montero
August 8, 1938 – February 1, 2011


Remember me in quiet days
While raindrops whisper on your pane.
But in your memories have no grief
Let just the joy we knew remain. 
Remember me when evening stars
Look down on you with steadfast eyes.
Remember if once you wake
To catch a glimpse of red sunrise. 
And when your thoughts do turn to me
Know that I would not have you cry.
But live for me and laugh for me
When you are happy, so am I. 
Remember an old joke we shared
Remember me when spring walks by.
Think once of me when you are glad
And while you live, I shall not die.

To My Loving Family

Love,
Tammy

The One Who Changed Everything 

In Loving Memory of my Daddy
August 8, 1938 – February 1, 2011 

Flowers are little pieces of heaven
always watching out for us.
Sometimes they are extra special....beautiful ones.
They have the courage to stick out the storms,
to survive the hard winds,
fight back during the cold winter freeze,
and become something even more amazing in the spring.
They just keep going and going
till they bud and change you all over again.
Some are so strong that God wants them for himself
so he picks that flower to put in his vase to look at for inspiration.
That flower helps him watch over the rest of us.
We may think that it is unfair that God
took the special, courageous flower;
but, the legacy of that flower will never die
the colors, scent, and most of all its presence.
So we all sit back and watch, wait and hope
to see if we will become one of those flowers to someone
to see if we become the one that changed everything.



To My Loving Family

Love, 
Tammy

Daddy:


As I sat watching by your hospital bed,
A million thoughts ran through my head.
Of just how much were you aware?
Did you know that we were there?

Could you feel the love we sent,
In whispered word, or prayer bent?
Upon my cross as I asked God,
To spare your life for my selfish cause.

So that I could tell you just once more,
"I love you Daddy!" as I had before.
And we could chat like days of old,
Over coffee cups all rimmed with gold.

And laugh and joke, or just to share
some small hurt and perhaps a tear.
To talk of the past, or things yet to do.
To sniffle, and sneeze, and say "Bless You!"

All these dreams now hang in shreds,
As I sit here with bowed down head.
And ponder on these sad thoughts.
Just to wonder "Was it all for naught?"


I love you Daddy!

Tammy

In Loving Memory of my Dear Daddy


I Can’t Believe You’re Gone

Daddy, my sadness knows no end,
I can’t believe you’re gone,
I’m grieving for you every day,
It’s hard to carry on.
You were always there to support and care,
When we needed a true friend,
How I’ll ever do without my Daddy,
I cannot comprehend.
You were my teacher and my guide,
My Daddy, so good and strong,
Your example will sustain me now,
And last my whole life long.
We’re trying to communicate,
I hope that you can hear,
Expressing what we feel for you,
Helps me feel you’re near.
My memories of the times we had,
Help the pain to go away,
But Daddy, our lives won’t be the same,
We’ll miss you every day.
A part of us went with you,
You left a gap too big to fill,
You’re a husband, a father, a grandfather……our hero,
We love you and we always will.


Love, 
Tammy

To my Dearest Family


You Loved Me Enough to Let Me Go

Your hearts are breaking---I know, I can tell
Because you’re my family and I know you so well.
As hard as this is, there’s something I need to say
I didn’t want to linger, didn’t want you to beg me to stay.
Keeping me here only would have gotten in my way
Preventing me from being where I needed to be 
Out of this body and finally pain free.
Living with God is my ultimate goal
By taking me home, He has made me whole.
The only thing that held me back
Was thinking of you and the good times we had
You fought for me when no one else could
Refused to give up when others told you how sick I was.
You packed a whole lifetime of love in (72) years
Gave me strength to handle all of my fears.
Showered me with courage—you said, "It’s a loan”
While secretly hiding tears of your own.
You did everything I needed, I couldn’t have asked for much more
You loved me enough to help me pass through that door.
I know you are sad and it doesn’t seem fair
But the time had come to put me in God’s care.
Since I started the job I was sent here to do 
And planted a seed now residing in you.
I’m sure I can trust you to carry my load
Because you loved me enough—enough to let me go.


Love, “Your Guardian Angel”

Dad

Dad...so many images come to mind
whenever I speak your name;
it seems without you in my life
things have never been the same.

What happened to those lazy days
when I was just a child;
When my life was consumed in you,
in your love, and in your smile.

What happened to all those times
when I always looked to you;
No matter what happened in my life
you could make my gray skies blue.

Dad, some days I hear your voice
and turn to see your face;
Yet in my turning...it seems
the sound has been erased.

Oh, Dad, if I could turn back time
and once more hear your voice; 
I'd tell you that out of all the dads
you would still be my choice.

Please always know I love you
and no one can take your place;
Years may come and go
but your memory will never be erased.

Today, Jesus, as You are listening
in your home above;
Would you please go find my daddy
and give him all my love.

I love you Daddy!!

Love,
Tammy

In Loving Memory of My Dear Husband
"From Me to You!"

To Where You Are
By Josh Groban

Who can say for certain
Maybe you’re still here
I feel you all around me
Your memory’s so clear
Deep in the stillness
I can hear you speak
You’re still an inspiration
Can it be that you are my forever love
And you’re watching over me from up above

Fly me up to where you are
Beyond the distant star
I wish upon tonight to see you smile
If only for a while, to know you’re there
A breath away’s not far
To where you are

Are you gently sleeping 
Here inside my dream
And isn’t faith believing
All power can’t be seen
As my heart holds you
Just one beat away
I cherish all you gave me, everyday
‘Cause you are my forever love
Watching me from up above
And I believe that angels breathe
And that love will live on and never leave

Fly me up to where you are
Beyond the distant star
I wish upon tonight to see you smile
If only for a while, to know you’re there
A breath away’s not far
To where you are

I know you’re there
A breath away’s not far
To where you are

Love Always,
Your "Angel"

To My Loving Family,

What is Death?

Death is nothing at all.
I have only slipped away into the next room.
I am I and you are you.
Whatever we were to each other,
that we still are.
Call me by my old familiar name.
Speak to me in the easy way
which you always used.
Put no difference in your tone.
Wear no forced air of solemnity or sorrow.
Laugh as we always laughed
at the little jokes we enjoyed together.
Play, smile, think of me, pray for me.
Let my name be ever the household word
that it always was.
Let it be spoken without affect,
without the trace of a shadow on it.
Life means all that it ever meant.
It is the same that it ever was.
There is absolutely unbroken continuity.
Why should I be out of mind
because I am out of sight?
I am waiting for you,
for an interval,
somewhere very near,
just around the corner.
All is well.
~ Henry Scott Holland

In Loving Memory of My Dear Husband

Brave Warrior

"Before this world had started
Before our lives began 
God assigned us all our challenges 
Some hard things to withstand 
Each of us were given 
Some difficult things to do 
But God gave his bravest warriors 
An extra burden too 
So you were challenged with a body
That became broken and quite ill 
But life could never take from you
A solid, determined will
You kept your face turned toward the sunshine
Trapped in a body that only knew rain
And chose to see the joys in life
In spite of constant pain
And though your body was oft' connected
To needles, machines and tubes
You bravely faced each day with them
While expressing gratitude
For the chance of simply being here
Though to me it didn't seem fair
To see someone as special as you
Suffer in a body beyond repair
So when you'd honorably completed
Every trial you were assigned
God chose to bring you back to him
Freeing your bright spirit and mind
And though I'll miss you deeply
So cherished and loved were you... " 

Always and Forever,
Your Loving and Devoted Wife

Daddy:

A few days after you passed you had sent Billy, Brad and Christian a message that you were flying with the angels, dancing with Jesus and that you were pain free.  You said that you would be the wind across their face, the stars in their sky and that for the wings of angels you flew. Christian and I know that you have been watching over us.  There have been many days where the wind was in our faces, many stars were in the sky and for the wings of angels we have seen doves flying.  Thank you for watching over us Daddy.  We need you more now today than ever before.  I know that the music box that has been playing for Christian, Mom and I is that you are letting us know that you are dancing with Jesus and that you want us to know that you are always watching over us.  I have found peace just knowing that you are no longer suffering, that you are now strong again, pain free and watching over Christian, Mom and I.

We love you Daddy,

Tammy

The Broken Cord
We little knew that afternoon that God
Was going to call your name.
In life we loved you dearly,
In death we do the same.
It broke our hearts to lose you,
You did not go alone;
For part of us went with you,
The day God called you home.
You left us peaceful memories,
Your love is still our guide;
And though we cannot see you,
You are always at our side.
Our family chain is broken,
And nothing seems the same;
But as God calls us, one by one,
The Chain will link again.

I love you Daddy!!
Tammy

When You Feel Lonely

When a person you loves passes away
Look to the night sky on a clear day.
The star that to you, appears to be bright,
Will be your loved one,
Looking upon you during the night.
The lights of heaven are what shows through
As your loved one watches all that you do.
When you feel lonely for the one that you love,
Look to the Heavens in the night sky above.

So Daddy, Christian and I will be looking into the night sky on a clear day and know that the bright star above will be you looking down on us letting us know that everything will be okay and that you will be forever watching over us.  

We love you and miss you very much!
Tammy

To my Dearest Family
"In Memory of my Daddy"
August 8, 1938 to February 1, 2011

Love, Tammy


I'm Free 

Don't grieve for me, for now I'm free
I'm following the path God has laid you see
I took his hand when I heard his call
I turned back and left it all
I could not stay another day
To laugh, to love, to work or play
Tasks left undone must stay that way
I found the peace at the close of day 
If my parting has left a void
Then fill it with remembered joys
A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss
Oh yes, these things I too will miss 
Be not burdened with times of sorrow
I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow
My life's been full, I savored much
Good friends, good times, a loved one's touch 
Perhaps my time seemed all too brief
Don't lengthen it now with undue grief
Lift up your hearts and peace to thee
God wanted me now, he set me free

It's Been Over a Month

It's been over a month since you left the ones you love.
It's been over a month that you've been looking down on us from up above.
It's been over a month of constant reminder that you're not here.
It's been over a month of memories, sorrow and fear.
It's been over a month since that horrible afternoon.
It's been over a month from when you walked into the light.
It's been over a month where I had to try to be strong every day.
It's been over a month of unspoken words I need to say.
It's been over a month since I had to say goodbye.
Where is the good in goodbye when all I do is cry?
It's been over a month that has changed all my days.
It's been over a month, trying to grow strong in so many ways.
It's been over a month, where I know you're in a better place.
It's been over a month, and I still haven't forgotten your face.
It's been over a month of just imagining what it's like up there.
It's been over a month since he took you, it just seems so unfair.
It's been over a month, but I know you're doing alright.
It's been over a month of only seeing you in my dreams at night.
It's been over a month, and I want you to know that I love you,
It's been over a month, and I know you loved me, too.
It's been over a month. 

Love,
Your Daughter, Tammy

To my Dearest Family
"In Memory of my Daddy"
August 8, 1938 to February 1, 2011

Love, Tammy


   When Tomorrow Starts Without Me 

When tomorrow starts without me,
      and I'm not there to see;
If the sun should rise and find your eyes
      all filled with tears for me;
I wish so much you wouldn't cry
      the way you did today,
While thinking of the many things
      we didn't get to say.
I know how much you love me,
      as much as I love you,
And each time you think of me,
      I know you'll miss me, too.
But when tomorrow starts without me,
      please try and understand,
That an angel came and called my name
      and took me by the hand,
And said my place was ready
      in heaven far above,
And that I'd have to leave behind
      all those I dearly love.
But as I turned to walk away,
      a tear fell from my eye,
For all my life I'd always thought
      I didn't want to die.
I had so much to live for
      and so much yet to do,
It seemed almost impossible
      that I am leaving you.
I thought of all the yesterdays,
      the good ones and the bad,
I thought of all the love we shared
      and all the fun we had.
If I could relive yesterday,
      I thought, just for a while,
I'd say good-bye and kiss you
      and maybe see your smile.
But then I fully realized
      that this could never be.
For emptiness and memories
      would take the place of me.
And when I thought of worldly things
      that I'd miss come tomorrow,
I thought of you, and when I did,
      my heart was filled with sorrow.
But when I walked through heaven's gates,
      I felt so much at home.
When God look down and smiled at me,
      from His great golden throne.
He said, "This is eternity
      and all I've promised you,
Today your life on earth is past,
      but here it starts anew.
I promise no tomorrow,
      but today will always last,
And since each day's the same day,
      there's no longing for the past.
But you have been so faithful,
      so trusting and so true,
Though there were times you did some things
      you knew you shouldn't do.
But you have been forgiven,
      and now at last your free.
So won't you take my hand
      and share my life with me?"
So when tomorrow starts without me,
      don't think we're far apart,
For everytime you think of me,
      I'm right here in your heart.

Daddy I Lost You


Daddy I lost you.
Day by day goes by and still all I do is sit and cry.
For years you were sick and somehow managed to be strong through it all.
Was it that you were trying to be strong for your family?
For almost six years I saw you suffer Daddy and there was nothing I could do.
Oh, how I wished I could have taken all your pain away from you.
When you were in the hospital and I saw you hooked up to so many machines, 
I could see you were hurting and your pain and suffering was hurting me.
I loved you so much Daddy. I was your daughter. I was your first born.
You have no idea how happy the news made me when the doctors said you were getting a little better.
Little did I realize then that soon we would be left alone without you.
It's not the same here Daddy without you here.
Oh, how I wish you can come back Daddy so we can go back to being a family again.
I wish we can go back to the way things used to be before you became sick.
After you passed away, my world seemed to stand still.
I still remember the day when I heard the doctor say "he passed away".
At that moment, so many thoughts filled my head.
I can still remember when I walked into your hospital room after you passed on and you were so still.
I called your name; but, I received no answer for your soul was obviously no longer there....you were in Heaven with your Father.
I know that you knew how much we cared about you.  We loved you so very much.
Oh, how I wished I could have told you again I love you Daddy before you passed on.
How I wished that I had known that that afternoon would have been your last.
There's nothing I wouldn't give to hear the sound of your laughter; but there's just no way now.
I feel so useless.  I am so in a state of denial and shock.
I tell myself that this is all a bad nightmare and that I'll soon wake up, when in true life, it is reality.
That day I couldn't do anything at all.
Today I cannot even bring myself to smile.
My stomach churns and it still hurts too much.
I'll tell you this February is not a month I'll soon forget,
for it took away such a special part of my life and left my heart in debt,
in a debt of love, despair and heartache.
This month took away my Daddy and a good man to his family so true.
This February, I lost so much.
I lost you.  


Love Your Daughter, 
Tammy

My Memory Library
 
Imagine if I was given one moment,
just a single slice of my past.
I could hold it close forever,
and that moment would always last.

I'd put the moment in a safe,
within my hearts abode.
I could open it when I wanted,
and only I would know the code.

I could choose a time of laughing,
a time of happiness and fun.
I could choose a time that tried me,
through everything I've done.

I sat and thought about what moment,
would always make me smile.
One that would always push me,
to walk that extra mile.

If I'm feeling sad and low,
if I'm struggling with what to do.
I can go and open my little safe,
and watch my moment through.

There are moments I can think of,
that would lift my spirits everytime.
The moments when you picked me up,
when the road was hard to climb.

For me to only pick one moment,
to cherish, save and keep,
Is proving really difficult,
as I've gathered up a heap!

I've dug deep inside my heart,
found the safe and looked inside,
there was room for lots of moments,
in fact hundreds if I tried.

I'm building my own little library,
embedded in my heart,
for all the moments spent with you,
before you had to part.

I can open it up whenever I like,
pick a moment and watch it through,
My little library acts as a promise,
I'll never ever forget you

Love,
Tammy

Why You Daddy?

As each day passes
I sit and wonder why?
Why you were taken 
without a chance to say goodbye
And as I start thinking
with tears running down my cheeks
I think of life without you and it really makes me weep

I think of the future
and nothing seems that bright
nothing is the same anymore without you in our lives
All I have is memories and a hole inside my heart
as long as you know we loved you right from the very start

I look at your chair in the corner where you use to rest your head
now all I feel is sadness because of an empty chair instead
My wish for today you could come to us
and tell us it's okay
I greatly wish so very much this pain would go away

Daddy, we take life for granted without a thought about the day 
someone that you really love is suddenly taken away

I love you Daddy!


Love,
Tammy

To My Godchild, Tammy

THE LONELY CHAIR

In the corner of the room stands a lonely chair,
That once was filled with a Father who cared.

His daughter misses him so very much,
Especially his sweet and tender touch.

It brings her so many heartaches and tears 
His lovely voice no longer to hear.

Staring at that lonely chair, she wonders
Why such a beautiful human being had to say good-bye.

All the sweet memories of him will be remembered each year,
From January to December.

In her heart she knows no matter what,
Her love for him will never part.

No one can ever break their special bond of love,
You see it was truly sent from up above.

So Tammy when you stare in the corner, at that lonely chair, 
Just remember a loving Father, who truly cared. 

Love Always,

I'll Say Good-bye

Though death separates us for now,
I know we'll meet again.
My tears will dry, no more I'll cry
and a new life will begin.
It's so hard to have to let you go,
and I still don't understand.
It's so hard when memories start to flow
of all the good times we had planned.
Some days I sit upon the couch
and your memory lingers on.
I hear your laugh. I see your face
and it's here where you belong,
but then I stop and ask myself,
" Would it be the best for you?"
It's not right to wish you back on earth,
when I know what you went through.
Our God is such a Gracious God
and He gives us each so much.
He let me keep your memory near
so we'd always be in touch.
Be free, My Daddy, I'll let you go;
Your life was not in vain.
You touched so many lives on earth
with your laugh and through your pain.
I'll live my life as God has planned.
I'll hold my head up high.
I'll treasure all the time we had
and with that - I'll say "Good-bye."
Onward the flow... I'm letting you go...
Because I know... We'll meet again.

Rest in Peace, My Daddy

Love,
Tammy

Goodbye To My Dad

Goodbye Dad, I had to say 
One month ago today
I'll remember the good times and try not to be sad
But saying goodbye still hurts so bad
I miss you more then I can express 
My love for you will never grow less
I keep trying to imagine how I will go on
I realize tomorrow is another dawn 
I know you're in heaven above 
Looking down on us with all your love
Only to whisper in our ear 
Remember that I'll never stopped loving you dear
I'll always remember the good times we had 
Remember the man, my wonderful Dad
I'll remember you each and every day 
And if I need to talk to you, I'll just sit down and pray
One day we'll be together again 
To talk about all the places we've been
Until the time I'll always treasure
Having you for a Dad was such a great pleasure
Thank you for being such a wonderful Dad.


Daddy,
Those we love remain with us for love itself lives on, 
and cherished memories never fade because a loved one's gone. 
Those we love can never be more than a thought apart,
for as long as there is memory, they'll live on in the heart.

Love, Tammy

Your Spirit – A Tribute to My Father

I know that no matter what you will always be with me.  When life separates us, I'll know it is only your soul saying goodbye to your body, but your spirit will be with me always.  When I see a bird chirping on a nearby branch, I will know it is you singing to me.  When a butterfly brushes gently by me so carefully, I will know it is you assuring me you are free from pain.  When the gentle fragrance of a flower catches my attention, I will know it is you reminding me to appreciate the simple things in life.  When the sun shining through my window awakens me, I will feel the warmth of your love.  When I hear the rain pitter patter against my window sill, I will hear your words of wisdom and will remember what you taught me so well—that without rain trees cannot grow and flowers cannot bloom.  Without life's challenges I cannot grow strong.  No matter where I am your spirit will be beside me for I know that no matter what, you will always be with me.

In Loving Memory of my Dear Husband

God saw you getting tired,
When a cure was not to be.
So He wrapped his arms around you,
and whispered, "come to me."
You didn't deserve what you went through,
So He gave you rest.
God's garden must be beautiful,
He only takes the best
And when I saw you sleeping,
So peaceful and free from pain
I could not wish you back
To suffer that again.

- Author Unknown 

And so, my darling, I thank you for the way you brightened my life.  I will always feel cheated that you were taken away from me, yet I must learn to be grateful that you came along at all.  Now that you are gone do I truly appreciate what I am now without, and I want you to know that life without you is going to be very, very difficult.
  
I have despaired of your loss over this past month and only the strength of the message you gave me through your years of giving has afforded me the strength to move forward.  I will always treasure the years I spent with you, especially our vacations with the children and grandchildren at Walt Disney World.  It was as if we had been transported back to our childhood when we spent an enormous amount of time together.  I know you would want me today to pledge myself to protect them, and I did on February 1, 2011, the day you entered into the “Heavenly Kingdom.”  And beyond that, I will also pledge to arm our children and grandchildren spiritually and emotionally for the years ahead.  I know you would have expected nothing less of me.  

I would like to end by thanking God for the small mercies he has shown me at this dreadful time. Above all, I give thanks for the life of a man I am so proud to be able to call my husband—the unique, complex, extraordinary, and irreplaceable Billy--who will never be extinguished from my mind.  My darling, you have gone home now, guided by your faith and by the light of those that you loved and lost.  At last you are with them once more, leaving me memories you gave, the good that you did, the American dream that you gave me, and a simple, enduring image—the image of a man smiling broadly as he hustled throughout the “Magic Kingdom” at Walt Disney World, and now hustling throughout the “Heavenly Kingdom”.  As I bid you farewell, just know that you will always be in my heart forever. God bless you my darling, and Rest in Peace!  

I love you!  

And so...

Dearest Husband

I thank you with all of my heart
For sharing this journey called life
I’ll be forever grateful 
That I was blessed to be your wife

Grateful to have held your hand
To have loved you throughout the years
Amidst life’s joys and challenges
In times of happiness and tears

Blessed to have built a life with you
To have shared so many things
Moments I’ll treasure with all my heart
Memories that mean everything to me

I can hardly accept you’ve been taken away
I can hardly bear the thought
Of facing the future without you here
I’m still not sure how I’ll get through this loss

Yet I’m comforted knowing how much you love me
And I’m certain you’re still watching o’er
Staying nearby and caring for me
As faithfully as before

And though you may be gone for a season
I’ll carry on…trusting to see you again
Waiting ‘til God reunites us in heaven
And brings me back to you, sweetheart and friend

Until then…I thank you, dearest husband
For all you’ve meant to my life
I’m so grateful that we found each other
And for the blessing of being your wife

Copyright © Jilchristy Dee.  All Rights Reserved

To My Daughter Tammy,

He is Gone

You can shed tears that he is gone,
Or you can smile because he lived.
You can close your eyes and pray that he will come back,
Or you can open your eyes and see all that he has left.
Your heart can be empty because you can't see him,
Or you can be full of the love that you shared.
You can turn your back on tomorrow and live yesterday,
Or you can be happy for tomorrow because of yesterday.
You can remember him and only that he is gone,
Or you can cherish his memory and let it live on.
You can cry and close your mind be empty and turn your back,
Or you can do what he would want:
Smile, open your eyes, love and go on.

David Harkins 1959

Remembrance
Remembrance is a golden chain
Death tries to break
but all in vain.
To have, to love, and then to part
is the greatest sorrow of one's heart.
The years may wipe out many things
but some they wipe out never.
Like memories of those happy times
when we were all together.


Daddy, it will be one month tomorrow since you have passed on to Heaven.  You are still forever in my heart and always in my thoughts.

Love,
Tammy

If Tears Could... 
If tears could build a stairway
And memories were a lane, 
I would walk right up to heaven
To bring you home again. 
No farewell words were spoken. 
No time to say good-bye. 
You were gone before we knew it, 
And only God knows why. 
My heart still aches in sadness
And secret tears still flow. 
What it meant to lose you, 
No one will ever know. 

I am missing you more and more  every day, Daddy!

I love you!

Love,
Tammy

His Journey's Just Begun

Don't think of him as gone away-
his journey's just begun,
life holds so many facets-
this earth is only one...
Just think of him as resting
from the sorrows and the tears
in a place of warmth and comfort
where there are no days and years.
Think how he must be wishing
that we could know today
how nothing but our sadness
can really pass away.
And think of him as living
in the hearts of those he touched...
for nothing loved is ever lost-
and he was loved so much.

To my Loving Family
Love, Tammy

Oh how you fought to the end of your devastating battle.
Our hearts ache that you are no longer here with us today.
Everyday I look outside and see the birds fly beneath the clouds,
I believe it's the path to heaven.
We miss you Daddy.
Life's a journey.
Life's a battle.
Nobody ever said life was going to be easy.
Daddy you just don't know,
How much we wish you were here with us today.
You were a brave man and you fought to the end.
We all love and miss you so very much Daddy!
 

Love, Tammy

To my dearest Family

Love never disappears for death is a non-event. 
I have merely retired to the room next door. 
You and I are the same; what we were for each other, we still are. 
Speak to me as you always have, do not use a different tone,  do not be sad. 
Continue to laugh at what made us laugh. 
Smile and think of me. 
Life means what it has always meant. 
The link is not severed. 
Why should I be out of your soul if I am out of your sight? 
I will wait for you,  I am not here, but just on the other side of this path. 
You see, all is well.


Love, "Your Guardian Angel"

Angels
When you were born, an angel smiled, 
As you became a child, an angel sat on your shoulder 
When you became an adult, an angel held your hand 
As you grew old, an angel walked down the road with you,
And, when you died, another angel got their wings.

In Memory of my Father
Love, Tammy

Light a Candle
Light a candle for those we mourn.
Into a new life they will be born.
Do not look for them at the gravesite.
They are somewhere else radiating their beautiful light.
They have gone to a new world where there is no darkness, no pain.
Their light and essence will always remain.
Light a candle for those who have left this mortal place.
They are free to travel through time and space.
When we think of them, they are near.
When we sit in a beautiful garden, their voices we hear.
When we listen to a divine symphony,
We close our eyes, their faces we see.
Light a candle for they have not really gone.
With each flickering flame, in your hearts they will always belong.
© A.Pell 24/08/2005


To my Loving Family
Love, Tammy

When I close my eyes, I think of you
And now I know you're up there in the sky
That's why it's so blue
But you should know that if I cry
It's because I love you
 
We all know that you are gone
But really you're just being born
Because from here to thereon
You are being recreated in heaven
I promise they will take good care of you and 
I will have it be known of what I've sworn
Because I love you
 
The angels will take care of you
But you will take care of us
As you watch our daily lives and help us through
That's just how it will be 
And we will always be thinking about you
Because we love you
 
You're not just a memory
You're a spirit inside all of us
So vibrantly alive
And you will continue to thrive
Until we meet again in that place that seems so distant
But I know its existent
Because God loves us
 
You fought your fight
You won your battles
But this time God has other plans to make it all right
So just follow that bright light
And it will all be okay because
You are just saving us a seat
Because you love us
 

We love and miss you so very much!

Your Loving Family

Nature's Wonders
Have you ever wondered what makes the wind blow?
Could it be our loved ones blowing us a kiss?
Have you ever wondered what makes the stars shine?
Is it our loved ones keeping watch over us while we sleep?
Have you ever wondered what makes the skies cry?
Could it be our loved ones missing us?
Have you ever wondered what makes the sun shine?
Is it our loved ones giving us a warm hug?
Have you ever wondered what makes the ocean waves come pounding to shore?
Could it be our loved ones wanting to touch us once more?
There are so many of nature's wonders and do we really know why?
Is there a higher power making sure we always remember the loved one we've just lost and shall never forget.

To my Loving Family
Love, Tammy

To you my Father
I will not look at this as a goodbye.
I will not allow the sorrow of your loss destroy me.
I will embrace what you have taught me through the 
years and carry that with me forever.
You have not died. You will forever be a part of my life.
I am your legacy.
I am proud to have had you in my life.
You have raised me to be the best that I can be
and for that I want to thank you.
Thank you for always being there, thank you for being stronger than
you know, and most of all, thank you for loving me.
You have inspired me to live life to the fullest,
and never back down.
I will not be taken over by the anger and
frustration of your loss.
Instead, I will remember the days when you were still here
and you were still with us.
I will see you in my dreams.
There you will forever be healthy and strong.

Love,
Your Daughter, Tammy

Daddy, the following is the letter that I had written to you on February 2, 2011, the day after your passing into Heaven.  This is the same letter that I had asked Laurie to read for me at your services, the same letter that I had placed in a sealed envelope the day of your services and given to you so that you can hold it close to you in Heaven.  Today, I am putting this same letter on your memorial guestbook.  
I love you, Daddy!
Love,
Your  Daughter, Tammy


February 2, 2011

Daddy:

I may not have always expressed my feelings of how much of an inspiration you were in my life….and Christian’s life.  I know why I was such a strong, courageous and ambitious individual in everything I had done in my life.  I had learned and was raised by the two most inspirational parents any daughter would have been proud to call them “her parents”.

Daddy,  I have always respected and heard your words of wisdom.  I may not have always accepted your advice immediately; but, I definitely heard them, appreciated them and did act on these words of wisdom you had given to me.  You were always strong with your words of wisdom which I may not have understood or even accepted immediately at that moment; but, I thought about them long and hard and realized their very meaning.

Daddy, you had lived your life to its fullest and I know that your decisions in everything you had done were “first class” and always wanted the very best for me and for Christian.  Well, Daddy, rest assured that I will continue to live my life respectfully and to its fullest, raise my son, your “buddy”, your grandson well like you have always wanted me to do and that I have always done and make you proud  to call me your daughter.

I know that there were times when I may have even hovered over you or it may even been called “irritating”; but, I always had the very best intentions.  I did not mean to be so irritating at times, it’s just that I loved you and respected you so much that I wanted to be around you to share my thoughts, maybe get some advice or words of wisdom from you or maybe you may have even wanted me to do something for you at that time and on that particular day……….like maybe clip your fingernails, trim your beard and mustache or even cut your hair.

Daddy, my heart is breaking, my body feels numb and the only thoughts that I seem to be having right now are of you and needing to know that you are at peace, you are comfortable and that you are no longer hurting.  I may be having a hard time right now accepting that you have gone back home to God, your Father; but, I hope with time that I will be able to understand all of this.

Daddy, I know that you did not like people to hover over you; but, please do not think of me as being irritating right now.  It is just that I miss you Daddy so much!  I know that this is not the time for me to be selfish because this is not about me………….it is about you.  It’s so hard.  I go in the den and your chair is there.  I sit on the sofa where I used to sit which is next to your chair………..and just sit.  The television is on, Christian is here, Mom is here; but yet it is so solemn, so quiet.

You were such a wonderful part of this family and a very exciting part.  You added so much excitement and life to this family.  Well, Daddy, I am trying to be brave, to be strong and it is difficult.  I have to tell you that this is going to take me a very, very long time to accept that you are gone---well that I am not able to see you any longer.  But, Daddy, please know that I will talk to you every day because I know that you are here---you are here right now and probably looking over my shoulder as I write this and reading as I go along.  Hey, that’s okay because I want you to be here when I write to you or when I talk to you.  I know that I will feel your presence when I do.  Daddy, Christian, Mom & I will be okay.  We know that this is what you would have wanted for us.

I prayed my novena 6 times a day for months hoping that you would get better and come home---prayed for a “miracle”.  Was I selfish Daddy?  Was I keeping you from going back home to God, your Father?  Were you ready months ago and we or should I say I was keeping you back making you work so hard to stay here until you thought we were ready?  I am so sorry Daddy.  I did not mean to do any harm.  I just was not ready to let you go.  I cannot even say that I am ready now---but, you are gone and I miss you Daddy!

Love, 
Your  Daughter who misses and loves you so much!

P.S.  Christian will be okay.  He misses you Daddy and is trying to understand why this had to happen to you.  He will be talking to you, too---he has already started!  Take care and watch over Christian Daddy, okay?  I told Christian that you would probably be on his shoulder watching over him always---he has broad shoulders Daddy so you can sit with him for a long time now, remember that.  Christian has his very own “guardian angel”.  You always told me you would watch over him.  I am sure that you are going to take care of Mom, too!  She loves you so much, Daddy!  She took such good care of you---always wanting and giving you the very best.  Rest in peace  Daddy.  I love you so very much!  Christian loves you so very much!  Mom loves you so very much!

In Memory
© Kimberly N. Chastain 
A thousand times we needed you
A thousand times we cried
If love alone could have saved you
you never would have died
A heart of gold stopped beating
two twinkling eyes closed to rest
God broke our hearts to prove he only took the best 
never a day goes by that you're not in my heart and my soul.

Daddy, it has been three weeks today since you have been taken from us and you are still forever in my heart and you always be in my thoughts more today than ever before.

I Love you Daddy,
Tammy

February 21, 2011

Daddy:

It will be three weeks tomorrow since you have left what they say is our "temporary home" and gone back to your "permanent home" to be with your Father in Heaven.  Well Daddy, I miss you more today than ever before.  I know that you are here with us........I just know it.  You have made your presence known to me, mom and Christian on more than one occasion whether it be visual or some other sign.  Always know that you are forever in my heart and always in my thoughts.  

Love, Tammy

In Our Hearts
© Rose de Leon 

We thought of you with love today,
But that is nothing new.
We thought about you yesterday.
And days before that too.
We think of you in silence.
We often speak your name.
Now all we have is memories.
And your picture in a frame.
Your memory is our keepsake.
With which we'll never part.
God has you in his keeping.
We have you in our heart.

Love, Tammy and 
Your Loving Family

A Poem in Honor of My Deceased Father, Who Art In Heaven
"I Was Always With You...You Will Always Be With Me"  
by Gerry Murak
I was...
...in your mind,
...in your heart.
...in your family,
...in your care,
...in your home,
...in your business,
...in your conversation,
...a witness to your life,
...at your bedside,
...caring for you,
...at your wake,
...reading your obituary,
...at your funeral,
...talking to your friends,
...thinking about you,
...savoring your words,
...remembering what you taught me,
...realizing you will always be with me.
Thanks Dad, for always being there. 
Love,
Your Daughter, Tammy

Don't Give Up
© Alexandria Wall 

When I looked into your eyes 
I saw you looking straight back at me. 

As we stared into each other’s eyes it was like somehow, some way we were thinking the same thing. 

I was thinking that I’m scared for you. 

As I looked into your pale eyes,  and I saw your helpless body lying in the hospital bed getting weaker and weaker. 

Thinking to myself I don’t want to lose you. 

You're like my best friend, without you there's no reason to go on. 

But as I stood and we looked into each other’s eyes. 
It was like you were telling me there is a reason to go on. 
You have friends and most of all family who care so much about you.
And don’t think of me as gone just think of me as in the next room. 

As I stood there and watched your helpless body fade away, 
I stood and thought to myself you are right.

The only problem is when I go into the next room you’re not there in person, you’re there in spirit.

I love you and miss you so much Daddy!!!
Your Daughter,
Tammy

Dear Dad in Heaven 

I sit here and ponder how very much
I'd like to talk to you today
There are so many things
That we didn’t get to say.
I know how much I care for you,
And each time that I think of you
I know you'll miss me too.
An angel came and called your name
And took you by the hand and said
Your place was ready in Heaven, far above...
And you had to leave behind, All those you dearly loved
You had so much to live for, so much to do
It seems impossible God was taking you
And though your life on earth is past, in heaven it starts anew
You'll live for all eternity, just as God has promised you.
And though you've walked through Heaven's gate
We are never far apart
For every time I think of you,
You're right here, deep within my heart.

I love you and miss you so very much daddy!!!

Your Daughter,
Tammy

Broken Chain

We little knew the day that
God was going to call your name.
In life we loved you dearly,
In death we do the same.
It broke our hearts to lose you
But you didn’t go alone.
For part of us went with you
The day God called you home.
You left us peaceful memories.
Your love is still our guide,
And though we cannot see you
You are always at our side.
Our family chain is broken
and nothing seems the same,
but as God calls us one by one
the chain will link again.

By
Ron Tranmer

What is Death?
Death is nothing at all.
I have only slipped away into the next room.
I am I and you are you.
Whatever we were to each other,
that we still are.

Call me by my old familiar name.
Speak to me in the easy way
which you always used.
Put no difference in your tone.
Wear no forced air of solemnity or sorrow.

Laugh as we always laughed
at the little jokes we enjoyed together.
Play, smile, think of me, pray for me.
Let my name be ever the household word
that it always was.
Let it be spoken without affect,
without the trace of a shadow on it.

Life means all that it ever meant.
It is the same that it ever was.
There is absolutely unbroken continuity.
Why should I be out of mind
because I am out of sight?

I am waiting for you,
for an interval,
somewhere very near,
just around the corner.

All is well.
~ Henry Scott Holland

Although it's difficult today to see beyond the sorrow,
May looking back in memory help comfort you tomorrow.
~Author Unknown

I am so sorry for your loss because I KNOW just how much this man meant to so many people and I know what his passing means to you. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers. Amie Dodds

To My Dear Grandfather,

“A grandfather is the bond that is never broken no matter what the circumstances”

I was born, you were there…I took my first step, you were there…I started my first day at school, you were there…You were ALWAYS there!  I spent more time with you than both of my parents combined, and I always felt close to you.  As a child there was no safer place than the security of your arms.  These are the days I will always treasure.  Thank you grandfather for loving me!  

Grandfathher, I have so many memories of the kindness, love and fun you brought to my life over the years.  Many of the best are the simplest.  Like my fond memory of having you drive me one night all over the city to three different grocery stores looking to buy me cream cheese because I wanted it.  Then when I got home I discovered that I didn’t even like it.  That memory (simple, perfect, everlasting) will last a lifetime.  

Now, what can I give you back in return for your selfless love and dedication?  I will give back to you the promise to make you proud!  

Love from your firstborn grandson,
Billy

Dear Jean, Tammy & Billy:  Our hearts go out to you on your loss.  Please accept our sincere sympathy. 
Rose, Earl, Robert Magri, Tammie Magri Noah.

Tammy my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time.  Love is stronger than death even though it can't stop death from happening, but no matter how hard death tries it can't separate people from love. It can't take away our memories either. In the end, life is stronger than death.

Montero Family,

I am so sorry for your lost.  You all are in my thoughts and prayers.  Remember, he will always be in your heart.  

Bonnie Fanguy

Thinking and praying for you and your family Tammy. He will always be your Guardian Angel.

To The Grandchildren & Great- Grandchildren,

"Those we love don't go away,
They walk beside us every day,
Unseen, unheard but always near,
Still loved, still missed and very dear."

Love,

To Tammy & Lil Billy,

"Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal."

Love,

To My Twin Sister,

"When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure."

Loving You Always,

I am so sorry for your loss and I know that you will miss him forever.  He will be in my prayers and so will you, his family.

"What we have once enjoyed we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us." ~ Helen Keller

Uncle Billy, what I remember most about you is that you were always  quite the entertainer!  I laughed so many times, and yes, even rolled my eyes on occasion, at your silly and persistent demonstrations of "strength" when you'd flex that bicep and say, "See this? Now THAT'S a muscle!"  Little did you know that your biggest show of strength would come later in life as you battled a relentless illness.  You really gave it your all!  So, you see, your strength wasn't in that muscle... it was in your heart.  It was the strength of your love for your family that made you the man, the fighter, that you became. You will be missed!!

Life Lessons


You may have thought I didn't see,
Or that I hadn't heard,
Life lessons that you taught me,
But I got every word.

Perhaps you thought I missed it all,
And that we'd grow apart,
But Dad, I picked up everything,
It's written on my heart.

Without you, Dad, I wouldn't be
The woman I am today;
You built a strong foundation
No one can take away.

I've grown up with your values,
And I'm very glad I did;
So here's to you, dear father,
From your forever grateful kid.


Your Loving Daughter
Tammy

Dear Billy,

Upon entering heaven and meeting family and friends, you must have seen Charlie who looked at you and said, "What took you so long Billy?"  You answered, "I did not want to leave Jean.  She might forget to buy the lottery tickets." So, I'm sitting here thinking about you and the good times (trips to Disney World, Las Vegas, and the Saints games).  We had great times together and I'll miss you.  You have gone too soon.  So, until we meet again, "Thanks for the Memories."   

Your sister-in-law Lotta

Rest in peace Mr. Billy, you are loved and will truly be missed.

Heaven And Earth
When the warmth of the sun touches my face, 
I see your smile and feel your embrace. 

I hear the whisper of love in the wind 
And I know that you are close to me again

The rain speaks of tears and the thunder of pain, 
But soon the sun comes the earth to reclaim. 

As the days come and go and the world moves on, 
I know you're still here, you'll never be gone.

On the night the Angel came and took your hand, 
We cried as you left for an unknown land. 

But Heaven rejoiced as you came into sight, 
For your soul was a diamond, shining so bright!


YOUR SON

Dear Billy, Brad, and Christian,

Do not cry over me.  I am in heaven now seeing God’s whole face.  I am not in pain anymore and no more sickness is upon me.  I am flying with the angels, dancing with Jesus, and I am pain free.  When you get lonely and sad because I am not on this earth, rest assured God has given me a new birth.  When you start to cry, I will send my love.  I am the wind across your face and stars in your sky.  Please do not be saddened for the wings of angels I fly.  God Bless you all!

Grandfather

God's Garden

God looked around his garden and he found an empty place, and then he looked down upon the earth and saw your tired face.  He put his arms around you and lifted you to rest.  God's garden must be beautiful, he always takes the best.  He knew you were suffering.  He knew you were in pain.  He knew you would never get well on earth again.  He saw the road was getting rough and the hills were hard to climb, so he closed your weary eyelids and whispered, "Peace be thine."  It broke our hearts to lose you but you didn't go alone, for part of us went with you, the day he called you home.  

Your Loving Family

"To live in the hearts we leave behind is not to die"--Thomas Campbell (Author)

OBITUARY

William David Montero

August 8, 1938 – February 1, 2011

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