Virginia Laverne Wiersma (Gigi) was welcomed into the comforting arms of her Lord and Savior Jesus on Friday, March 20, 2020 at 10:00 pm in her home, surrounded by her loving husband and family members.
The family is pleased to make Virginia’s virtual Memorial Service available.
Follow this link for the video.
Born January 1934 in Chicago, Illinois, she was the second of four children to Theodore and Mary Janecyk. She married her high school sweetheart Charles in 1952, and the couple welcomed four children and two foster children into their lives.
In 1974, Chuck and Virginia moved the family to Tucson, Arizona, where together they owned and operated a family business for 25 years.
She was preceded in death by her father and mother, her brother Lawrence, her son-in-law John Smith, and her grand-daughters Kristin and Abigail.
Virginia is survived by her devoted husband of 67 years; her children Amy (C.R.) Oldham, Shelly (Roy) Lingo, Taryn Smith, Richard (Laura) Wiersma, Clyde (Nora) Wisk, and Gary Wisk; her sister Gail (Bob) Normoyle, and her brother Ted Janecyk. Memorable family functions were the highlight of her life, to include grandchildren and great grandchildren: Haley Henning (Caleb, Corbin), Marcus (Christina) Henning (Annalise, Sofia, Isabella), Cheyenne (Dylan) Disinger (Brynslee, Braxton), Josiah Oldham, Daniel Oldham, Elizabeth Oldham, Sienna Wiersma, Lucas Wiersma, Landon Wiersma, Fareez Ismail, and Amber Smith.
She shared with a friend that she felt her greatest accomplishment in life was to teach her kids to love God and to be kind to others. One of her last messages during her recent hospitalization was, “My family did everything they could for me and much, much more.”
During her final moments, a CD of her favorite hymns was on in the background. The song “Precious Lord” was playing as she took her last peaceful breath.
Precious Lord, take my hand,
Lead me on, let me stand,
I am tired, I am weak, I am worn;
Through the storm, through the night,
Lead me on to the light:
Take my hand, precious Lord,
Lead me home.
When my way grows drear,
Precious Lord, linger near,
When my life is almost gone,
Hear my cry, hear my call,
Hold my hand lest I fall:
Take my hand, precious Lord,
Lead me home.
When the darkness appears
And the night draws near,
And the day is past and gone,
At the river, I stand,
Guide my feet, hold my hand:
Take my hand, precious Lord,
Lead me home.
To Our Beloved Virge, Mom, Grandma, Gigi, Gina, Virgie, Babe, and Friend,
We, who share your faith, will cling to God’s Promise that we will once again be with you in Our Heavenly Home.
“If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by openly declaring your faith that you are saved.
Romans 10:9-10 NLT
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be donated to:
Answers for Life Pregnancy Center
627 N. Swan Road
Tucson, AZ 85711
A memorial service will be held at a later date, once the family is able to confirm details.
Use “Leave a Reply” below to sign our guest book.
Our Beloved Gigi 
Grandma gets to celebrate Kristin’s birthday with her today! Knowing that brings me comfort.
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Virginia was always so warm and loving, taking me into the family fold as well. I was blessed to be part of your wonderful family. Thank you Chuck for sharing this website with me. Together, you both were an amazing example of love and laughter and what family means. Even after all the years and miles apart we stayed in touch and it was always a bright spot to chat with you.
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At Christmas time… the memory photo ornaments hang on my tree, and these are the poems on them:
Abby’s says:
God looked around his garden and he found an empty place; he then looked down upon this earth and saw your tired face. He put his arms around you and lifted you to rest. God’s Garden must be beautiful, He always takes the best. He knew that you were suffering, He knew that you were in pain, He knew that you would never get well on earth again. He saw that the road was getting rough and the hills were hard to climb, so he closed your weary eyelids and whispered “Peace Be Thine.” It broke our hearts to lose you, but you didn’t go alone, for parts of us went with you the day God called you home.
Kristin’s says:
I see the countless Christmas trees around the world below, with tiny lights like heaven’s stars reflecting on the snow. The sight is so spectacular please wipe away that tear, for I am spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year. I hear the many Christmas songs that people hold so dear, but the sound of music can’t compare with the Christmas choir up here. I have no words to tell you of the joy their voices bring, for it is beyond description to hear the angels sing. I know how much you miss me, I see the pain inside your heart, for I am spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year. I can’t tell you of the splendor or the peace here in this place; Can you just imagine Christmas with our Savior face to face? I’ll ask him to lift your spirit as I tell him of your love, so then pray for one another as you lift your eyes above. Please let your hearts be joyful and let your spirit sing, for I am spending Christmas in heaven — and I’m walking with the King.
Our family truly believes that leaving this earth is not the end, but rather the beginning. We miss you Mom but trust that you are surrounded with amazing love and joy greater than our earthly minds can comprehend. Prayers for all those who grieve this Christmas season; may you find comfort and peace.
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Thank you, Chuck, for telling me about this website. I so appreciate the Godly example of Virginia’s life. She and I enjoyed lunches together and I especially enjoyed her telling me stories of how she boldly shared her faith with people in her life, whether they were family or people she interacted with in daily living. My husband and I also enjoyed social visits, eating meals together and playing games with Chuck and Virginia. She lived a full life. After she retired from working at the family business, she and I had more opportunities to talk about the meaning of life, the trials and joys of life and looking forward to going to our eternal home, Heaven. I’m so thankful she is free of her pain and in His Presence. Our lunches are over, but just for a season.
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What a wonderful memorial for your mother. I am so blessed that I was able to be one of those people welcomed with open arms into your moms life during one of the most difficult times in mine. I will always remember the hospitality and love she adorned us with. I know we will be reunited in heaven. I will know exactly who she is because of that smile. Blessings and love to all of you. ❤️
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Thanks for sharing the video of the service.
WOW! That was a wonderful a memorial service!! What a great tribute to her and wonderful testimony of her faith and the faith of her family!!
God was greatly glorified! And I was greatly blessed!
Think of the wonderful reunion we will all have in Heaven!!! It’s about about a year and a half sink Jean went to Heaven….I am anxious to see her again!!!
Tom Foulkes
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Very touching memorial service and tribute to her life. It is amazing to see the impact she has made on so many lives, she has left a true legacy that will last for generations by the impact on both her family as well as the friends and acquaintances in her life. You all are very blessed
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John and I have so many great memories of Virginia in Blue Island, Ill. and in Tucson. We will always cherish these times together.
Her love for God, love of family, kindness, and hospitality, are among the virtues that were evident in her life.
We feel blessed to have shared with such a wonderful friend.
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Chuck and Family,
What a beautiful tribute to Virginia. Thank you for sharing with me. And, thank you for sharing your Wife and Mother with me through the years. She was so fun to be with and I learned from her every time I saw her. It was evident how much she loved her family, friends and her faith. What a great example Virginia set for all of us. I will never forget our friendship. I miss her so much!
Janice Wyatt
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I was so moved by this tribute. I was fortunate enough to spent time with Aunt Virg. First when Grandma Mary was in the hospital and again when my dad was sick. Long talks. Love given and received. Hearing your stories filled me up. Uncle Chuck, I’m thankful my kids were able to spend time getting to know both of you. Your faith is seen everyday in the life you live. Love you all.
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The service was wonderful. It was fun to see all of Virginia’s family and the comments they shared about their memories of her. As we all know, Virginia was a special lady. She welcomed people into her life as she did me, my husband, and husbands family ( Utah neighbors). Chuck you are special too. You helped her be the best she could be by your support and love. Love for you both!!
Lisa Crookston
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I truly enjoyed watching the Memorial for my Aunt Gina and hearing all of the family talk, Sienna’s piano playing, reading some of the letters, and seeing some of the great-grandchildren. Aunt Gina is truly missed by so many people who’s lives she impacted. Thank you to all who helped put this beautiful Memorial together. My heart and prayers go out to all my cousins, I know you are all missing Mom.
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It was a joy and a privilege to know Virginia. It was an honor to have her put her faith in me to help decorate your beautiful home. It was a small part but my visits were always met with a warm welcome by both Virginia and Chuck.
The true meaning of morality, family, compassion, love and generosity is exemplified by the Wiersma family.
Thank you for embracing us.
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What a lovely tribute. I have very special memories of Virginia. They include having lunch with our beloved daughters and attending special events our Grandchildren were in together and going to lunch and shopping when she had time here in Utah. She was a treasure and is a special memory.
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Remembering my amazing Mom today. It’s ironic that today is her heavenly birthday because I’m about to dive into a hectic day of our homeschool co-op Arts Showcase. I can hear her voice right now. “Amy, you need to slow down-you are doing too much.” She would be pleased to know that her words of wisdom continue to advise us. She would also be happy to know that after tonight, I will officially begin my “co-op administrative retirement”. 😁 I love that we have this memorial website and the virtual service. Thank God for technology. God’s mercies and promises, even in a pandemic, are precious!
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What a beautiful memorial service! It gives me such comfort to hear these moving tributes from family and friends. I was blessed to have known Virginia through her daughter Taryn. Taryn and I, her daughter Kristin, and my daughters met at a dance class and a lifelong friendship was made. Virginia and I share a Polish heritage. My heart was full when she asked me if she could read a book I was writing about my Polish parents in a Siberian slave labor camp. She was a special lady and will be missed by all. God gave you a class act to follow.
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Miss you so much, Mom.
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Chuck, I’m so glad you stirred me on to the Memorial Service. You and Virginia raised a God centered family.
What a wonderful tribute to an amazing woman, who led such a wonderful life, and touched so many people.
I enjoyed our telephone conversations where we shared fun experiences, and the politics of our country. She was so sharp. I miss her, and will look forward to seeing her again.
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To Chuck & Precious Wiersma Family,
Just want you all to know how sorry I am for your huge loss on earth of your beloved wife, mom, grandma, great grandma, sister, aunt, and friend. Virginia impacted soo many lives with her deep faith and her very caring and kind heart. I am very thankful for the times we shared lunch together and spoke on the phone… sweet memories of her gentle spirit and tenacious love of her family through the joys, challenges and losses you faced as a family. Her faith inspired me again and again.
I was very blessed and encouraged to watch the video of the “Celebration of Virginia’s Life.” What a beautiful, honoring, and life-giving tribute to a very precious woman who holds a special place in sooo many hearts, always. My prayers and my heart are with you in the days ahead.
In Jesus’ Love Always,
Kathy Creviston
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I have such fond memories of my life long friendship with Shelly and being around her family members when I was in my early 20s. Listening to all of the loving words about your wife and mother and her selfless-ness and hearing Shelly, who to me, has always been such a rock, choke up in her dedication to her mother, was a knowing for me, of the deepest love in her heart. To me, Shelly has always favored her mom. I loved the authenticity in every word your mother spoke; and that part made me cry. Each of you spoke beautifully. Real life, Real Love, and a knowing of eternal life. Thank you for sharing your love. May you find peace in your hearts knowing that she will be at the gates ahead of you, waiting for you. –
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My mom and I picked out my wedding dress yesterday. After we brought it to the house to show Grandpa and Aunt Taryn. More than anything I wish you could have been there too. I miss you Grandma. I’m having such a hard time visualizing our wedding without you there.
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Grandma, for the first time today I found out that Anne of Green Gables was filmed the year you were born! It’s not the one that I have spent my life watching over and over so this was news to me. My first thought was that I couldn’t wait to ask if you’ve watched it. I miss you every day and there are brief times my memory slips and for a minute I think I can call you. I wish that were true. Hopefully you hear me all the times throughout my days that I talk to you. I love you.
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Mom’s prayers finally came true. Her first born granddaughter was a stunning bride. The groom is a handsome man of great integrity who simply adores her. So glad Mom had a chance to know him. Love, blessings and a happy life to the couple. Welcome to the family son-in-law!
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Mom, you know you took a big piece of my heart when you went to Heaven, but you left such beautiful memories behind. Today we celebrate your birthday and everything you mean to each of us. The other day Christina asked me if she could buy cupcakes so that today I could have a video chat with your three great-granddaughters, and tell them stories about you. What a loving and great idea! So i have a carrot cake cupcake for the occasion, and a bouquet of flowers. I hope I can come up with fun stories, but they won’t be as exciting as you telling the ‘bull in the pasture’ story to your great-grandsons in your own voice. I will show the twins your handwriting in the book we read that you gave them as infants in 2015 where you wrote their names, “from Grandpa Chuck & Grandma Gigi”, and referenced “Proverbs 3:5-6”. At that young age and throughout their lives, you wanted them and each of us to know to: “(5) Trust the Lord completely, and don’t depend on your own knowledge. (6) With every step you take, think about what he wants, and he will help you go the right way.” Love you Mom! Prayers for Dad and all those who feel Mom’s absence today.
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Miss you Mom. My heart smiles everytime I am thinking of you. Especially today. I look forward to the day I can be with you in heaven and give you a big hug. 😍
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Although I miss not being able to visit and enjoy my mother’s presence on her birthday today, I am eternally grateful she is able to spend it worshipping her Savior in the company of all of her heavenly loved ones. And, if there is any dust in heaven, she is probably joyfully attending to that as well…
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Happy heavenly birthday to my dear Aunt Gina. The world just isn’t the same without you here on earth with all of us. I know your family sure misses celebrating with you in person, and your sister, Gail, misses talking to you today too.
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For Valentine’s Day… a song of deep and endless love. The kind of commitment and hope God designed for us to experience.
Scars In Heaven By Casting Crowns
If I had only known the last time would be the last time
I would’ve put off all the things I had to do
I would’ve stayed a little longer, held on a little tighter
Now what I’d give for one more day with you
‘Cause there’s a wound here in my heart where something’s missing
And they tell me that it’s gonna heal with time
But I know you’re in a place where all your wounds have been erased
And knowing yours are healed is healing mine
The only scars in Heaven, they won’t belong to me and you
There’ll be no such thing as broken, and all the old will be made new
And the thought that makes me smile now, even as the tears fall down
Is that the only scars in Heaven are on the hands that hold you now
I know the road you walked was anything but easy
You picked up your share of scars along the way
Oh, but now you’re standing in the sun, you’ve fought your fight and your race is run
The pain is all a million miles away
The only scars in Heaven, they won’t belong to me and you
There’ll be no such thing as broken, and all the old will be made new
And the thought that makes me smile now, even as the tears fall down
Is that the only scars in Heaven, yeah, are on the hands that hold you now
Hallelujah, hallelujah
Hallelujah, for the hands that hold you now
There’s not a day goes by that I don’t see you
You live on in all the better parts of me
Until I’m standing with you in the sun, I’ll fight this fight and this race I’ll run
Until I finally see what you can see, oh-oh
The only scars in Heaven, they won’t belong to me and you
There’ll be no such thing as broken, and all the old will be made new
And the thought that makes me smile now, even as the tears fall down
Is that the only scars in Heaven are on the hands that hold you now
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Mom,
Love you and miss you. 😍
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Thought about our sweet Mom a whole lot this weekend. ❤️ Mother’s Day 2022
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If I left a message every time I clicked on this page, the page would be filled up. I know dad is a frequent visitor as well. I didn’t want the season to pass without acknowledging how important mom has always been in our family’s holiday gatherings and traditions. Such a generous hostess who showered each of us with her love and creativity. She always made it a very special time. Prayers for good health, travel safety, and sweet times of togetherness as we celebrate the Lord‘s birth. Joy and peace to your family as well!
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For me, Christmastime seems the most difficult time of the year for missing loved ones. Although you were not there, Mom, your presence was felt as we gathered together this past Sunday. I saw and heard you in the faces and voices of your children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren as we celebrated Christmas with each other. Time does start to soften the pain of loss, but it most certainly does not erase the memories…the house was full of those precious memories of you. I love and miss you so much, and again I thank the Lord I got to be part of your life for a little while <3.
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On her 2023 birthday, Gigi would have been delighted seeing all the snow pictures at her “Layton, Utah cottage”. We have had to cover her rose bushes in the driveway circle with the piles of snow, so it is now appropriately named, “Mount Gigi Rose”. Looking forward to seeing those happy blooming rose bushes this coming summer. The beautiful Scrub Jay birds are also braving the chilly temps to come visit Gigi’s place. All wonderful reminders of the beauty of God’s creation that she appreciated, valued and cared for while on this earth. Happy Birthday in heaven Mom! 💗
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Three years ago, Virginia went to spend eternity with her Savior. While I was thinking of what I wanted to write on this anniversary, a well-known TV personality made a comment, “I am a Christian because I believe in God.” Millions of people and even the devil believe in God. There are many orthodox groups, cults, etc. who also believe in God. But, do they believe and trust that He lived a perfect life and died on their behalf?
God gave us His Holy Word in the Bible:
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.” – John 3:16.
“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” – Ephesians 2:8-9
Virginia would like you to accept this so when your time has come, you could spend eternity with her and Jesus.
Chuck
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Love you and miss you. 😍
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Because He lives! A celebration of Easter.
God sent His son
They called Him Jesus
He came to love
Heal and forgive
He bled and died
To buy my pardon
An empty grave
Is there to prove
My savior lives
And because He lives
I can face tomorrow
Because He lives
All fear is gone
Because I know
He holds the future
And life is worth the living
Just because He lives
And then one day
I’ll cross the river
And I’ll fight life’s final war with pain
And then
As death gives way to victory
I’ll see the lights of glory
And I’ll know He reigns
Because He lives
I can face tomorrow
Because He lives
All fear is gone
Because I know
He holds the future
And life is worth the living
Just because He lives
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What an incredible tribute to what seems to be an incredible woman. Thank you Chuck and Shelly for sharing this with me. I so wish I had been able to meet her and experience that love that she had for everyone. I so much am like her and love family. I am grateful to have met you and know what and where my family is. Thank you for sharing stories and places of our family. This truly is an incredible gift to have. Covid may have put a wrench into some things but this!, This is an amazing work of art and an incredible tribute to a woman that will be shared with the generations. Your GiGi will never be forgotten..
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Always miss you… especially on days like today.
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Mom always loved weddings and roses, so I’m quite sure she would have been thrilled to see her grandson Daniel’s beautiful bride with her red rose wedding dress this past Saturday. Thinking of my wonderful Mom on what would have been her 90th birthday and thanking God that Jesus made a way for us to be together again someday in the presence of God. ”How blessed are those who dwell in Your house! They are ever praising You. Selah.“ Psalm 84:4 NASB1995 What a birthday song Gigi is singing in heaven today!
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Happy 90th Birthday Grandma!!
I miss her a lot, especially this weekend. Grandma was always there during super important milestones, and it’s sad to have her miss one like this, I know she’d have loved it!! I can see her having arrived weeks in advance, baking, cooking, cleaning, and doing laundry! I didn’t realize back then that was her way of showing people she loved them, which I find super sweet now. I wish she could’ve been at the wedding, but I know she’s cheering the happy couple on from heaven!
Love you, Grandma!!
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Some of us were able “… to witness the multiplication of ginger power!” at Daniel’s wedding this past weekend. How blessed this young couple is to have role models like Amy & C.R., Virginia & Chuck, whose marriages have long demonstrated selflessness, unwavering commitment, and endless love. Congratulations to “silly and goose” as you begin this wonderful life journey together, and Happy Birthday to my sweet Momma! 💕 🌸
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Love you and miss you. 😍
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We miss you. Love you. 😍
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Dad, I know that you have spent the last 4 years quietly missing Mom while at the same time being strong for the rest of us. I can just picture the smile on Mom’s face to realize, despite her stated fears, how well you have done to take care of yourself, your health, and your home that she so lovingly tended to during her lifetime. When speaking about household chores, I have heard you comment to strangers that you “came to realize that your wife did a thing or two around the house” (followed by your signature cheesy grin.) You’ve done well, Dad, and you even figured out how to bake yourself some cookies! I love you a bunch. Sending hugs.
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Dad said that today would have marked 72 years of marriage for he and Mom. Just wow! I located some facts that I didn’t know. Only 0.1% of all marriages last 70 years, according to the U.S. Census Bureau from a 2023 source. We were fortunate enough to celebrate 65 years with Dad and Mom in 2017 and only 2 % of marriages were able to claim that milestone from a 2018 source. I feel incredibly privileged to have been raised by two amazing parents who modeled for me what it means to be dedicated and committed. Remembering Chuck and Virginia. 💗
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Great statistics “hopeinutah”. Dad and Mom’s marriage is certainly one to celebrate! 💕 And, speaking of marriage and commitment, we think of Josiah and Kiersten this weekend as you embark on your own lifetime journey of love and service. Enjoy your special day which marks the beginning of your forever. 💒
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Miss you & Love you. 🙏😍
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On this 91st anniversary of her birth, I celebrate the influence Gigi has had in each of our lives. The past few days have honored what she always valued: family visits, meals and games around the table, prayers and time in the Word with Dad, service to and caring for others and the home. I am proud to belong to this family and I am sending love to each of us who miss Mom today.
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Something I have prayed many times over the past 5 years… “Dear God, I don’t know how this works but please let Mom know how much I love her.”
And for my Dad who loves traditional hymns, here is one for you today.
What a friend we have in Jesus
All our sins and griefs to bear
What a privilege to carry
Everything to God in prayer
O what peace we often forfeit
O what needless pain we bear
All because we do not carry
Everything to God in prayer
Have we trials and temptations?
Is there trouble anywhere?
We should never be discouraged
Take it to the Lord in prayer
Can we find a friend so faithful
Who will all our sorrows share?
Jesus knows our every weakness
Take it to the Lord in prayer
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Thinking of all of you on the five-year anniversary of Aunt Gina leaving our earthly world into the arms of Jesus in heaven.
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Missing you and love you. 😍
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