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With a heavy heart, I have set down to pen some more
thoughts to you. You came from humble beginnings but made it
to the top in the railway system. So proud you were of the
uniform; being brakeman on the passenger trains for the
Norfolk & Western railway during WW2! Added to that honor,
you were promoted to part-time conductor. What a feather in
your cap, I'd say!!
Remember when we went to Texas
to visit your brother whom you had not seem for so very many
years? Just you and I paid a visit to the Alamo plus we
visited my cousin, Estella, who took me on a tour of that
historical town. What a treat!
I must tell you why I am so sad
today although I feel you probably know by this time. Being
only 19yrs of age, very immature plus living a very
protected life, I did not deal well with the news which was
delivered to us this day. Your son, my brother, Paul,
escorted Mother, cousin Vicki and I to Aunt Grace's home. On
the way, he broke the traumatic news: You, my dear loving
father had been killed while working with the very railroad
that you loved. No one saw this happen but we know that your
body was crushed under the wheels of the train. It took me a
long time to recover from this tragedy of losing you but
time has a way of soothing the ache.
I was baptized the following
June. You were not there in body but if it was possible, I
am sure you would have been there in spirit as I dedicated
my life to the service of our Lord Jesus Christ. Someday, in
the Great Beyond, we will meet again where there will be no
more parting. Together, we will sing Beulah Land as I often
heard you sing. I will always love and remember you, daddy!
Your daughter, Norma
O Beaulah land, sweet Beaulah
land,
As on thy highest mount I stand,
I look away across the sea,
Where mansions are prepared for me,
And view the shining glory shore,
My heav'n, my home for evermore.
Amen
Norma Liles ?© 2004
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Blessings to you today
Bob Johnston
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