Saying Goodbye to Papa

Papa LeHoullier and Jeannette

There are so many kind and beautiful words and thoughts that I could write today about Papa, However, I will reserve them for another day when I can honor him entirely.  For today, I want to share about a sweet memory of saying GOODBYE TO A WONDERFUL MAN.

Yesterday, I said goodbye to my father-in-law, Albert LeHoullier, who I affectionately called “Papa”.  He was blessed to live 93 years and we are even more blessed to have been loved by this special man.

His family had a small and intimate memorial service at the Riverside National Cemetery which is dedicated to the interment of United States military personnel.  It was a lovely setting and a gentle way to formally say our last goodbyes to a much loved gentleman, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend.

What struck me as even more lovely than the setting, was the special love Papa’s family had for him and for one another.  My husband, Al Jr., asked me to read Papa’s favorite bible verse from Proverbs 3:5 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.“   

        Al then added some great thoughts and explained why he appreciated that special verse his dad quoted so much.  Al’s former wife (and now my friend), Dana, read a special memorial story she wrote about Albert Sr. including brief family memories, faith, and humor.  Al’s deaf sister Gladys lovingly shared about her dad and how special he had been to her, caring for her in special ways because of her deafness, which created a unique bond between them.  John Ballard (Gladys' husband) signed his message of love about Papa and the friendship they had (he asked Gladys to interpret).  Both Gladys and their sister Phyllis were with their dad almost daily, especially this past year.  Al’s brother, Art, shared from his heart.  Granddaughter Rachelle spoke briefly and shared.  Lastly, Phyllis, who received their father's veteran's memorial flag, shared through tears momentarily and invited us to share our flowers for Papa. 

Each of us placed a red or white carnation on his flag drapped casket and had a private moment.  At the end of our gathering there were hugs and kisses. 

Some of the family is deaf, and it was special to have them sign their eulogy message and to have it interpreted for most of us. 

As we turned to watch Papa’s internment vehicle being driven away, very naturally hands went up in the air with the “I LOVE YOU” sign language symbol.  Oh how very unique, loving, and wonderful sight that was.  Speaking loved ones also added “I love you Dad (or Grandpa or Al)” or “God Bless You” or “Rest in Peace”.  Yet, there was something about that visual sign of hands outstretched in the air with the sign language symbol soaring up with love. At the end of our gathering there were hugs and kisses. 

   

Papa always gave each of us a big hug, kissed us goodbye and then signed us “I Love You” as we gave him one last look or said one last goodbye.  So, what the family shared yesterday afternoon was so natural - with the same sweet smiles on our faces as he had, we just signed love back to him.

Rest in peace Albert.  You will be forever loved and cherished by me, your children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, sister, in-laws, friends and all who came to be blessed by knowing you.  Rest in peace Papa – I LOVE YOU.  

Blessings on your day.

Jeannette

My Grandmother Grace and I signing "I love you" years before she passed away.