Sheryl's Mom

In the midst of our transition from Nashville to Abilene we lost Sheryl's mom, Ernestine Rathbun, this past week to a sudden stroke. Sheryl and I were laying on the bed Tuesday night crying tears of joy that our 13 year old dog, Bear, had been found in Abilene. We were so thankful to get her back. Then we got the text that Ernestine had been life flighted to Houston. It just seemed too much. Surreal.

Sheryl headed to Houston to be with her and the kids and I waited in Abilene for good news. At first the news seemed positive. She was responding to voices and pain. But over night Wednesday, things declined.

Thursday night as Sheryl and her family were gathered around, Ernestine slipped peacefully away. The last thing she heard in this life was Sheryl's voice singing over her. The song was straight out of scripture in Zephaniah 3.

The Lord our God is with you
He is mighty to save.
The Lord will take great delight in you.
He will quiet you with His love.

He will rejoice over you,
He will rejoice over you.
If you could only hear His voice,
You would hear the Lord rejoice,
Rejoicing over you with singing.

We are all so sad. The family is gathered in Lake Jackson and as happens every time we're together, there's laughter, joking, hugging, and lots of stories. This time it's seasoned with tears, but it's good to be together.

Tuesday of last week Ernestine made her famous chocolate cake. Ironically, even in her absence, she is still taking care of us by feeding us. We're savoring every morsel.

Visitation is today at the Restwood Funeral Home from 1-3pm.
The memorial service will be tomorrow at 10am at the Lake Jackson Church of Christ.

Thank you so much for your prayers and support!