I remember that night so well...we celebrated MCCDC's 45th anniversary and Tyrone put on his best clothes and partied with us. It was such a fun night!

It took me a while to realize this but Tyrone was born the exact same year that my father was born. And somehow he was one of the many father figures in my life - always present, always an encouraging word, and always a good advice that can be annoying the moment you hear it but you treasure it later once you realize that your dad was right.

Well, as Mark said, Tyrone was a diva at times...and if he did not feel like getting up, he would wave and make you come to him and you better came quickly! LOL I was not always appreciative of those moments at the time but I do miss them now. I miss Tyrone with all the quirks that made him unique.

One of my favorite Tyrone memories is his joy when he saw what we had put together one year for Pride. Tyrone loved Pride - he was unapologetically proud! And he loved this rainbow heart design. So I am sharing an imagine of it in memory of you, my friend. Be blessed, Tyrone. I know I will see you again. :)

Tyrone was a fighter; he didn't give up. He had a difficult life growing up, and I believe he blossomed when he left United House of Prayer and came to MCC. He told me once of a conversation with a House of Prayer member who tried to throw a little shade at Tyrone for attending MCC, "that gay church." He responded, "That's right, tell the world!" He stood up for what he believed in, and was a person of deep and abiding faith. I'm going to miss my buddy who I always sat with in the back.

Shortly after I met Tyrone, I realized how much of a DIVA he was. He liked things his way and over the top....His food only came from Whole Foods--it was organic and much better for you--well except the fig Newton's they could come from Giant. He knew what he wanted and he was going to have it. But not in a loud or arrogant way. TYrone was Tyrone. In his last days, he was resolute in the fact that Father God would be calling him and he would be ready. Tyrone, I salute you for doing it your way, for your wam smiles, and making us laugh. You are now in the Loving Arms of Father God!!!