Sad News

This doesn't really have to do with living in Italy, but is about my life, so here it is. My Grandaddy passed away on Thursday, November 27, 2008. He was 87 years old. It was somewhat sudden, but death can't be completely unexpected at age 87. He had been diagnosed with lung cancer about a week prior, and went downhill very quickly. Although he will be sorely missed, I am glad that he did not have to endure a long, painful illness.

Grandaddy was from McNairy County, Tennessee and Corinth, Mississippi. He and my Grandmother were married more than 62 years. In his work life, he sold liquid carbon dioxide for carbonation and ended up as the president of his company in Chicago. He was very dedicated to his work. He was also active in the Baptist Church for many years. Grandaddy was well-known and active in the retirement community where he lived. He and my grandmother raised 4 sons and have 7 grandchildren. I am told that he was a very stern father, but he definitely had a softer touch when it came to his grandchildren, whom he adored.

Though I am sorry that I wasn't able to see Grandaddy one more time before he died, I am glad that Jeff, Emily, and I stopped in to see Grandmother and Grandaddy in June during our trip to Wisconsin. I will be flying to Chicago on Tuesday to spend a week visiting with Grandmother, my aunts, uncles, and cousins, and my dad and sisters. A sad occasion, but it will be a rare chance to visit with so much of my family.