by Jane Coryell

Created on: July 28, 2008

Tribute To My Grandfather

I had the deepest yearning to see you again. To talk to you. To see you laugh. To hear your voice. To see your strength. I wish I could have thanked you before you left, for all the good things you brought to my life. Of all the people I have known, you had the most impact. No, you didn't leave behind a huge amount of money to be divided. But the fortune you left to all of us will be with us the rest of our lives, to spend at our leisure.

That small, little house, it used to seem so big and it holds so many memories. It seemed like a castle to me! I knew that when I entered, it would be like paradise! You loved us and spoiled us, but could quiet us down in a minute with your most effective frown, no words needed spoken.

The many drives you took us on, out to Grandma's house. That sweet smell of country and her warm little cozy house. Running barefoot in the cool grass, catching lightening bugs in a jar. And coming home to find our miniature cherry pies, still cooling on the back stoop. Saturday night meant Art Linkletter on tv. We all gathered 'round and were given a generous bowl of ice cream and cookies at your insistance. Then it was bedtime, which came all too soon. If I listen closely, I can still hear the ticking of that old clock soothing me to sleep.

We would awaken to the smell of bacon and the sound of gospel music as Mamaw busily prepared breakfast. We would hurry into the kitchen where her sweet voice filled the air. One by one we would take turns getting on our Sunday best in preparation to praise the Lord.

Butterflies in my stomach, we'd walk up the steep steps while the old church bell rang. I remember being so proud to walk beside you, to be your granddaughter. You, so big and strong, yet so gentle. You endured so much pain and happiness in this little church. I can still see the joy in your eyes when we were saved there, the joy of bringing your grandchildren through those doors. And I can see your grief and the depth of your pain that you felt here. Uncle Gene, Grandpa, Grandma. I remember you were the one, the brother who had to go up to the casket and gently pry Grandma's hands away as she wept over Grandpa.Her big, tall son. My grandfather. Bill. Mr. Rayburn. So many people knew you and respected you in different ways.

I miss the talks Papaw. Especially the last several years of your life when I would come, with my two young daughters, to help you and Mamaw. I miss the advice you would give me on my girls, my husband, the Bible. I remember the goodbyes, one of the last ones. Mamaw was so sick and I hugged you out on the porch. I began to cry and you said it would be ok, to go home and take care of my family. I turned to leave and looked back. You were standing there with tears streaming down your face. It was the only time I ever saw you cry. Your strength was weak. You looked so tired.

I know that my loss is your gain. I can see you in Heaven, so strong again. And so happy. I can imagine you there with Aunt Nin and Grandma and Grandpa and Delores, laughing that contagious laugh. I miss you so much, but I know you are preparing our home, just like you did here on earth. You are with them all,all the babies that never grew. I know they're safe, they are with you.

Learn more about this author, Jane Coryell.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.