Can't Lose What's Still There

My grandfather passed away on August 23, 2008. He was 85 years old. He was not only my grandfather, but my pastor. So, you can imagine how many lives have been affected. If not, let me give you the rundown:

• He was 1 of 13 children
• Father of 7 children
• Grandfather of 18 grands
• Great-grandfather of 12
• Pastor for 55 years
• Husband for 65 years

John R. Gaudy

11/11/1923 - 8/23/2008

You catch my drift?

About a week after his funeral services, my hubby and I attended a birthday party for one of my cousin's wife. He made a speech at the end and mentioned Granddaddy and said, "I won't say that I lost my grandfather, because he is still with me." Those that were there agreed: Granddaddy's teachings, legacy, mannerisms, outlook on life, example and other traits are things that the people he left behind will cherish and keep with them forever.

Mrs. Florine & Pastor John Gaudy

He was the coolest! He would go to different places around the country, and those that knew him would know he was coming because of his walk. They called it the "Gaudy walk." If you were in his company, you would find yourself doing the walk too. People would say hello and his response wouldn't be a wave...that was too flashy. He would lift his fore-finger, and give a short nod of his head. Baby, he was COOL! He never raised his voice. You never saw him upset. You knew when he wasn't playing, but you could never get a rise out of him. He was the sweetest and gentlest man I knew.

One of my most endearing moments of him was when it would be summer time and church was over. All the kids would be on the porch, and because of all the fresh rushes of perfume in the air, the porch attracted bees. Well, we'd be up there freaking out! Granddaddy, after greeting the other saints, would come out and grab the bee in his large hand, shake him, and throw him to the ground. We would be in awe! Laughing, but in awe! We'd be jumping around saying "thank you for saving us!" He'd give us the nod and a smile. He truly was our hero.

A person like that is someone that will never be lost to me. My memory may go and the pictures may fade, but Granddaddy will always be in my heart.