I know that Jimmy had been ill of late and that he suffered from chronic pain as do I. I can even remember on a particular morning when was up before dawn dealing with arthritis, I was writing a post to take me mind off of it when the Messenger bill rang and there was Jimmy, asking if I was okay. Jimmy was that kind of guy, a man who could find sunshine in the middle of a hurricane and who passed that countenance on to all he came in contact with. Over recent days, his lack of correspondence was missed and so I went to his page to see if things were okay. Sadly, that nagging feeling I had was true and I must confess it brought a lump in my throat and a tear in my eye. And I also know that the many people of the Virginia Peninsula who knew him and loved him are touched as well. But I also know that with the love of God that Jimmy possessed as a very devout Christian, it should be a time of joy.
So, Jimmy, you have not only led a very successful and rewarding life, but you have passed the ultimate measure of success as you enter His Kingdom and take your seat at the place set for you at His table. And may God be with your family in their time of grief and comfort them and heal them. Like the words you used several years back to describe about my father, you, too, were one of Newport News' finest. And Jimmy, enjoy your eternity with no more suffering or pain now that you have arrived home. Enjoy your well earned rest.