Wilma in Glory

Twice in a week is more than enough. Last night around eight thirty we received a phone call from our friend in Flint. Leroy reported that Wilma had a massive stroke yesterday. His voice was high and shaky. He was obviously shaken. He said he had heard a death rattle and that had been very hard on him. With no children to support this couple, the trial of Wilma's declining health has been difficult. They do have a very supportive church family but it has become very evident to me that having children when life ends is a big comfort. Who helps make the decisions? Who brings the cup of cold water? These are the reasons we have felt sorrow over not being closer geographically so that we could be of more help. I am so glad we made the trip to see Wilma a few weeks ago. She was failing but yet her personality and loving warmth came through. I remember how she ate with vigor the ice cream we ran out for. I also remember Leroy's joy in seeing her eat something.

At two fifty this morning, he called again. This time to say the fight was over. Wilma had passed from life to death at two thirty their time. He didn't talk long but said he had several other calls to make. Now we wait to hear what the funeral arrangements will be. It will be difficult for us to make the funeral if it isn't Monday. This time of year, one's calendar is generally booked solid and ours is no different. We have nothing booked for Monday so we can hope. Tuesday is Christmas and Wednesday we are scheduled to leave with our children for Florida.

Leroy is a Baptist pastor as well as high school English teacher. He has always expected our conversation to be composed of good English grammar. Occasionally, he would correct one of us during our conversation. It was always done in good humor. Poor Wilma was the one he would correct most often, simply because she would love him anyway. They had a great relationship as husband and wife. They were married fifty seven years. Leroy has been planning Wilma's funeral for some time and expects with the Lord's strength to deliver the funeral message. As emotional as Leroy can be, I can't imagine he will get through it but he intends to do it.

So the two elderly saints we have been praying for during their last months on earth have finally reached their eternal destination; next to the Savior's side in a place He has prepared and reserved for them. What a mystery. What a comfort.