Ever since we heard about Uncle Tom's death back in June Ronan was very interested in seeing pictures of him and hearing stories about him. He was also very concerned for my mom, his Memaw, and would often talk about how sad she was. ): Ronan knew that we would get to hear some of Uncle Tom's music at the memorial and that Uncle Tom's instruments were going to be there, so when we packed for our trip he asked if he could bring his guitars along. Then all on his own, on the day of the memorial, he remembered to bring his guitar with him. (:
My uncle was a very talented artist, musician, and song writer. I really enjoyed watching the slide shows of photos of his life and his artwork, and hearing his voice singing the songs he had written over the years. I am so sad that his life was cut short~ he will be dearly missed.
My mom did an amazing job of telling her little brother's story and what it was like growing up with him. She has such a good memory, so she was able to share a lot of funny and heartfelt memories from their childhood. (: I was so proud of my mom for being brave enough to speak in front of everyone at such an emotional time .
Uncle Tom's best friend & fellow musician, Kevin, also shared some great stories and songs.
Great Aunt Judy, Great Aunt Sister Roberta, and Great Aunt Norrine
My dad & Aunt Connie (his sister)
The reception
It was very touching that some of our cousins on my dad's side also came to the memorial.Erik, Katrina, Me, Becca, Heather, and Adrienne
(Justin was also there, but had to leave before we took this picture)
After the memorial we all drove up Glendora Mountain Rd to the place where we were going to spread the ashes.Aunt Conxita (Uncle Tom's ex-wife) met us there.
The gate was closed so we had to squeeze though a little gate to make our way to a bridge that my cousin Wyatt built for Eagle Scouts.Posing for a picture before sneaking past the barricade. (:
Me & Gr. Aunt Norrine
Katrina took this beautiful picture of our mom spreading her brother's ashes. It was such an emotional moment for everyone there, especially the four sisters and Conxita. In this picture Mom is standing (red shirt), Aunt Robin is kneeling down, and behind her is Aunt Nancy, Aunt Conxita (in white), and Aunt Carol. Each of them along with Kevin and my dad took turns spreading handfuls of ashes and saying a few words. I had never been a part of anything like this before...it was very meaningful.
One last group shot before the night was over:Mom, A. Nancy, Kevin, A. Robin, A. Conxita, and A. Carol
