Saturday, June 27, 2009

Present with the Lord! (click for pics)


Seems unreal that my last post was all about dads. Today I lost one. Joe Jones. When I think of Joe many things come to mind...
boxer shorts
crazy print shirts
laughing
singing hymns "Joe version!"
unique walk
words like "oh yeah" in a way only Joe could say them
green thumb
belly rubbin' after great sweets
swing sets
floor play with kids
garbage disposals
water filters
dry wall
...get the picture...you name it he could do it and he did! He used his gifts over and over again to serve his family, friends, neighbors, anyone who needed a helping hand!.....


"Absent with the body present with the Lord" are the words that filled my mind and heart as I watched Joe lay peacefully in bed. Thank you God for not allowing him to suffer anymore. I hope Joe knew how much we loved him! He was an exceptional man...so strong in his faith, forgiving, calming, caring...


Sue is a strong woman! I am blessed to say that she draws her strength completely from the Lord. As she struggles to live life with out Joe by her side I pray Lord that you would give her an abundance of peace, an overflow of your healing and love and able her in every way to continue to serve You as she shines BRIGHT for you!

We miss you terribly Grandpa Joe.............

4 comments:

Karen Mc. said...

Shannon and family,
I am so sorry about the loss of your grandpa. You are blessed to know he is safe in the presence of the Lord. If you ever need a shoulder to cry on, I'm here.

Karen

Our kids at home said...

Dear Hayes Family,

We are so sorry about Grandpa Joe. We know how special he was to your family. Grandma Sue, our prayers are with you and all of the family. So thankful that you have God and each other to lean on.

All our love,
The Johnsons

Shannon and Elli said...

I miss him 2 :-(
elli

Dotti said...

shannon,

your words are beautiful. Joe was a special guy and i know that you , phil and the kids were very special to him. He was so proud of your family.
Dad and i will miss him too. My heart goes out to Sue.
love,
mom