Eulogy for my brother, Ed
By: Steve Johnston - Cathedral Church – October 15th 2012
As the oldest of eight brothers and sisters, I am honored to say a few words as we bid our final farewell to my dear brother Ed.
To most in this church today, Ed was known affectionately as Eddie, whether it was as son, brother, cousin, or uncle, everyone loved him. But Ed also cherished a few other titles, like beloved husband, dad, colleague, boss and dear friend. It seems that Ed’s life, as short as it was, left an indelible mark on so many hearts that it is difficult to understand why God took him from us so soon.
We were all so terribly proud of Eddie. He was smart, handsome, athletic, successful, a true gentleman, and a consummate professional. But to those who loved him most, he was kind, caring, thoughtful, a joy to be around, and most of all he was loving and genuine. You just felt good when Ed was around. As his big brother, I know that Ed would be extremely joyful and happy to know that he has all the people he loved here today in the same place.
We are all going to miss him dearly, especially his smiling face and his ability to give the very best hugs. His departure leaves a big hole in this family.
Most people today, find it amazing when you tell them that you are one of a family of ten … Mom & Dad, five brothers and three sisters. I would often hear: “My goodness how did you guys do it?” “How did you not get lost in the shuffle or even find room around the dinner table.” As strange as it may seem, I can remember one particular time when just Ed was missing from the dinner table. He was not back yet from little league baseball practice and someone commented, “Hey, where is everyone? ” You would think that half the seats were empty but it was just Eddie missing. Even then he left a big hole when he was not around.
Ed and I led similar lives. We both worked for large international companies, in the field of procurement, and travelled the world. But regardless of the travels and intensity of our work, one thing we had in common that some don’t know is that when we were around family, we were both silly goofballs. Too professional businessmen turned in to silly, playful kids.
A perfect example is this past Christmas. Me at age 60; Eddie age 48, still trying to figure out who was the strongest and most handsome. We ended up wrestling like little kids in the middle of Rick and Karen’s family room. Of course, we all know Eddie’s youth and athleticism won out in the wrestling match – but I would tease him, I still won the most handsome category. He would just grin and make me smile even more!
Our online memorial for Eddie was created as a place where family and friends can post their farewells, tributes and favorite photos or memories of Ed. Over the last few days, there have been over 1300 visits to the Website. It is a testament to just how many people thought the world of him and how many lives he touched.. I am especially impressed with the number of folks around the world who respected him as a friend, business colleague and boss. If you have not yet visited the website, I would encourage you to do so.
In closing, I want to read a poem that was left by a dear friend of Ed’s on his memorial website. It is from an unknown author, and I feel that it reflects what Ed would be saying to us all as we sit here today.
A Message From Heaven ...
I'm writing this from heaven where I dwell with God above. Where there's no more tears or sadness, there's just eternal love. Please do not be unhappy, just because I'm out of sight. Remember that I'm with you, every morning, noon and night. That day I had to leave you, when my life on earth was through, God picked me up and hugged me and he said "I welcome you … It’s good to have you back again. You were missed while you were gone. As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on."
Then God gave me a list of things He wished for me to do. And foremost on that list of mine, is to watch and care for you. And I will be beside you every day and week and year. And when you're sad, I'm standing there to wipe away the fear. And when you lie in bed at night the days' chores put to flight, God and I are closest to you in the middle of the night. When you think of my life on earth, because you're only human, it's bound to bring you tears. But do not be afraid to cry, it does relieve the pain. Remember, there would be no flowers unless there was some rain.
It's always God's philosophy and I'd like it for you too, that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you. If you can help someone who is in sorrow or in pain, then you can say to God at night, My day was not in vain. And now I am content that my life was worthwhile, knowing as I passed along the way, I made someone smile. So if you meet someone who is down and feeling low, just lend a hand to pick him up as on your way you go. When you are walking down the street and you've got me on your mind, I'm walking in your footsteps only a half a step behind. And when you feel that gentle breeze or the wind upon your face, that's me giving you a great big hug or just a soft embrace. And when it's time for you to go from that body to be free, remember you're not going, you're coming here to me. And I will always love you from that land way up above. We'll be in touch again soon.
P.S. God sends His love.
Farewell my dear brother, Ed …You are gone too soon, but you will live on in our memories and hearts forever until that day we meet again in heaven.
I Love you.
