" Behold the Torch's Light "

This world was made a lesser place when your soul journeyed on ~
your passing left a voided space; less radiance in each dawn.
Naught can be as it once was in all the lives you've touched ~
those who found their way because you cared so very much.

To them you gave such precious gifts ~ compassion, friendship, hope;
chaff from their lives you'd gently sift, and with their demons cope.
If they seized or fell behind in fear of where they'd been,
it was your guidance, wise and kind, that led them home again.

For countless hearts the angels weep as each becries your loss;
searing pain a vigil keeps as on grief's waves we're tossed.
The vastness of the shadow cast by all you've meant to us...
seldom seen and rarely matched ~ nor worthy of such trust.

Few are born to equal you, our mentor and our friend ~
none lend greater credence to the message your life sends...
testimony, shining bright, of goodness, pure and true ~
exemplifying love and right for all who looked to you.

Though death has claimed the armor that your earthly spirit wore,
so, too, is your dear soul unchained to live for evermore ~
embraced now in the arms of God, Who in your life is pleased,
in a place where angels trod, all suffering appeased.

'Tis knowing this that soothes our pain with healing tenderness ~
believing we will meet again and feel the sweet caress
that lingers even though you've gone forever in our minds ~
for still you guide us from beyond the gates of Heaven and time.

Though with you gone and dearly missed, a sadness marks our days,
exemplary lives fore'er exist... as do your caring ways.
We will strive to honor you by conquering our grief ~
to hold your memory ever true, inspired by your beliefs.

We'll guard and keep the torch you bore to guide us through dark times;
burning bright though hate's gales roar ~ just as your life force shines.
You lead us still and bind the wounds received along life's way ~
living vestiges of you still bless our every day.

As you gaze down from Heaven above, behold the torch's light,
know that our respect and love will fuel it day and night...
a beacon for eternity to those who here remain;
who treasure your dear memory and by it are sustained.

See in its glow from this day forth the loving care you gave,
radiating from this torch, unfettered by the grave.
Beloved man, death keeps you not, nor can your spirit chain;
triumphing on in deeds and thoughts of lost souls you've reclaimed.

The legacy you leave us all our lives has richly blessed...
forever in our hearts stands tall and to all good attests.
We'll see you always, strong and bold, in every star at night ~
and you'll see us as you behold our torch's blazing light.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Dedicated with a weeping heart to Pastor Edward K. Stipe, who's passing is the earth's great loss ~ but Heaven's priceless gain.