Good morning…
As we stood in the hallway of the funeral home yesterday, waiting to join the family for a private viewing of Audrey in her open casket, my friend showed me the new screen saver on her phone. I snapped the precious photo above. A fun memory from an earlier day. Pink. Smiling. Relaxing. Together. What a wonderful way to celebrate friendship with Audrey.
The morning had begun with a text from Audrey’s mom. “Audrey is super close to one of the Westminster moms, Kathryn Mandel,” wrote Jennifer. “She texted me this morning.” For you to experience the true essence of Audrey, Kathryn gave me permission to share her loving note.
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Jennifer, I love Audrey and your family. I will be here for you when you are ready. Perhaps I can come over to visit you in a few weeks?
My words will never be enough to capture the magnificence of Audrey. I am heartbroken for you. But Audrey is front row seat in heaven now. Audrey would have written this so much better than me…
“Christ in you, the hope of glory”, Colossians 1:27. Audrey, I believe you felt the embodiment of Jesus and of your visions. You truly are what I imagine an angel to be. As I have shared with your mom and dad, my friendship with you has been one of the greatest gifts of my life. Thank you for all of your kindness, love and joy.
In no particular order, I love…your faith, your sense of humor, your creativity, the fact that you are interested in so many different things, your Goldbergs order, your brilliant mind, how adorable you look in a headband with a touch of bling, your love of animals, your curiosity, your desire to globetrot, the way you inspire and lift others, your exceptional baking skills, your laugh, you as Mary, your love of Notre Dame, you seeing the best in everyone and everything, Audrey’s Angels, you golfing, your cleverness, Daisy’s outfits and that you make her special banana treats, your stage manager skills, your absolute love of your family, your taste in pretty pink Scottish wool scarves, your passion to help others, your zest for life, your love of the outdoors and nature, that we both LOVE cheese popcorn, your engaging and entertaining written word, how you smile and the room lights up, your taste in pajama pants.
Thank you for your friendship Audrey and showing me what it means to be the best one can be.
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“The magnificence of Audrey.” I love that phase. Today at 2:00 pm at Northside Church, we will host a service celebrating the magnificence of Audrey DeShetler. Please join us in spirit or in person.
Until I read her beautiful obituary yesterday, I did not know that Audrey’s middle name is Joy. How magnificently appropriate!
The memory of one who lived with integrity brings joy (Proverbs 10:7a, VOICE).
…Sue…
