My Grandpa Jay Richardson passed away last Monday after several years fighting Alzheimer's. First signs of it showed up in Nauvoo in 2006 when we were serving our missions together. I especially loved getting to spend one-on-one time with him that summer.
Lincoln and I were able to fly out to Mesa where my grandma got to meet Lincoln. She used to work for an airline, and was so sweet to find a buddy pass we could use, since we were coming the farthest. The porkchop was great on the plane ride there, but the 6-hour flight home was the worst. experience. ever.
It was really great how so many of us could gather to honor such a great man. My grandparents have 13 children, 64
grandchildren, and 14 great grandchildren and though many of the little kids stayed at home, most everyone else was able to make it there.
Even Braden!! My brother made a surprise appearance just minutes before the funeral. Me and Travis hadn't seen Braden since he got back from his mission, and he hadn't met Lincoln yet. Happy reunion. We had some good late night chats about life.
After the funeral, we all drove to Virden, New Mexico, where my grandpa grew up. This was his high school, abandoned for over 50 years. We buried him next to two of his sons who died as babies, with a beautiful desert sunset behind. My grandpa was a very kind and gentle man who never raised his voice, brought up a large and righteous family, and always led by quiet example. We're all so happy that he is freed from physical pains, up in heaven doing some amazing things already. I love you grandpa!
4 comments:
We are so sorry to hear about your loss, Camille. We have fond memories of staying with your grandparents during our visit to Nauvoo (with Jackie Donkin Emmett). He was so kind and thoughtful and shared his great love of the gospel with us while we were there. Thank you for sharing him with us, praying for comfort for you & your family at this time.
I am glad you were able to make the quick trip out to see be at your grandpa's funeral, and how great your grandma and brother got to meet Lincoln. I hope we get to catch up with you one of these times you are in AZ.
I'm so sorry about your grandpa. He sounds like an amazing man. Thank goodness for the gospel!
I'm really glad you were able to go out for your Grandpa's funeral. It just helps to be with family and remember all the good things about your Grandpa. Even though he struggled with Alzheimers, you want to remember him as he used to be before it changed him. Sounds like he had a very good life and did many good things.
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