In Loving Memory Of JOSHUA ALLEN McKAY Sept. 20, 1988 – Sept. 25, 2004 Happy 17th Birthday! A celebration of life At Jeff’s Catering, Brewer Sunday, Sept. 24, 4 p.m. In just a few days it will be a year since that night we did not have a chance to say “See you later.” As I look back, I’m sure you were watching us and feeling our sadness through the following days, laying your body to rest. Josh, did you see all those people who came to say a final “see you later” that day? There were even police officers at each light, letting all your friends and loved ones go by. That must have been one of the largest gatherings of people I have ever seen. It made all of us so proud to know that you touched so many lives in such a positive way. The stories that people shared with us in the days following were stories about such a caring and loving young man; one about you visiting older people in your neighborhood, just to spend time with them and help them in any way you could. That wonderful girl whom I did not know, who cried on my shoulder the following Monday at your school. She told me you would always tell her how special and beautiful she was, and that everything would always be all right. I will always remember that as one of the most moving moments in my life. Those late nights when you and your stepsister would talk for hours; I know a piece of her heart also went with you that night. Your cousins, who will always share stories and keep you close to their hearts. Your wonderful father Randy and stepmother Pam, and your mother, who love you dearly, and were always working together to take care of their son. What a wonderful job they did. I thank them from the bottom of my heart to have had the time to share with you. I’m very proud to call you my stepson. You made friends with everyone, no matter who they were or where they came from. We will always remember all the friends you would bring home, for that is what made you who you were with us, and who you are now in God’s home. And I remember so many mornings just before going to school; you could always be found hanging out in your mother’s room and giving her that all-important kiss goodbye before going off to school. Trust me, my son, that bond will never be broken, and I know you are kissing her from God’s wonderful paradise. The night you came from a church meeting and told your mother you had a secret to share with her, that you had been saved that night. That’s one secret that we have all shouted from the mountaintops! Now as the days go by, I find your mother missing you dearly, and I wipe away the tears she sheds from missing her son and best friend. But she can find peace in knowing you are busy building her a place in Heaven, and sharing stories of all the wonderful times you spent here with her family and friends. And by the way, a lot has happened in the past year. You know that promise I made you about taking care of your mother? Well, don’t worry, she’s in good hands now. All those mornings I gave you a ride to school, and you asked me when I was going to marry your mother? Well, you can relax now, although I’m sure you know already; news travels fast in Heaven, I bet! We had a nice little wedding at your aunt’s house on Lucerne, and most everyone knew except your grandparents; weren’t they surprised! Happiest I’ve ever seen them. And I’m sure my Mom and Dad were watching with you; how my Mom loved Leisa and you! Give them my love. Many of us visit the site where your body is laid to rest, and we talk to you often, for we know you are listening. It gives us comfort to know you are waiting to greet each and every one of us, and to wipe away all the tears we have shed missing you. As the years go by, and no matter where our lives lead us here, you will always be just as close to all our hearts as when you were here with us on Earth. With love and joy in my heart, I know we will be together again someday. I know I speak for us all when I say we miss you dearly and will continue to celebrate your life each and every day. Take care, dear son, for life here is so short, but eternity is forever. Stepdad, Mom and family
JOSHUA ALLEN MCKAY
