Tough Week....Remembering My Granddaddy

This week was a tough one.  

Saturday BL & I went to visit Granddaddy because we knew his condition was getting worse and we wanted to make sure we had some time with him.  While he was asleep most of the evening while we were there, it was nice just to be around him.  

My sister called Sunday afternoon to let us know Granddaddy would be put on 24 hour watch, and I knew it was time to go sit with Granddaddy some more. The family spent Sunday night, into the wee hours of Monday morning around his bed...some reading scripture, some telling stories, all loving on our Granddaddy.  

Just after 8:00am on Monday morning, and just as "I'll fly Away" ended (which was playing from Granddaddy's favorite Alan Jackson gospel cd), our sweet Granddaddy took his last breath and went to walk with Jesus.  It was bittersweet and a moment I will never, ever, forget.  The world lost an amazing man this week, and heaven gained an angel.  We will miss him every single day, but rejoice knowing we will see him again when we get to the other side.  No doubt he is waiting to spoil us in heaven, just as he did on earth.  He  had such an impact on so many people, and I am blessed to have had the close relationship with him that I did. 

The celebration of his life was yesterday and it was beautiful!  All five of us grandkids teamed up to deliver the eulogy.  It was one of the toughest things we've ever had to do, and also one of the most precious.  No doubt in my mind he was looking down from heaven, just as proud of us as he's ever been.  

John Hulan was the youngest of four brothers to Otis and Effie. Raised in Tallapoosa, GA, he enjoyed basketball, running the hurdles and participating in the high jump, where he set a school record. He married Florene on April 14, 1956, and they enjoyed 54 wonderful years together. They had two children, Johnny and Melanie. He retired from  Lockheed after 41 years of service as tool designer. 

He is remembered for being an avid family man and never missing his grandchildren’s special events.  He was a gentle man with a kind spirit who brought much joy to those around him.  He was a member of Mt. Zion United Methodist Church, and was a faithful follower of Christ.