Dylan,
This book has been created for you by your Integrity Church Family, but also has contributions from people everywhere who love you. Everyone has done their best to post stories, photos, and memories they have of your sweet mother, Tonya. They have also included important truths that they believe your mother would want you to know as you grow older. This book is a gift to you from the many who have written these pages and shared these photos. It is our hope that as you read this book it will primarily be evident to you of how everyone dearly treasured your mother and you. She impacted so many people. This book is a very small sampling of that reality. Secondly, we hope you will see that Jesus is whom she loved and He is the one who gave her such a huge heart for people. It was Jesus IN her that people noticed. She would tell you that. We will miss Tonya. We all loved her very much. Read and Remember.
Sincerely,
Craig and Kim Morrisette
Friday, April 27
Wednesday, June 15
From Craig Morrisette
Dylan,
Let me preface what I have written: I don’t expect all of what I am writing to make sense to you now. Over time, when you are a little older, I hope you will read this and that it will help you understand more about what your mother treasured in her life and why. It is when you are older that a book like this will become precious and valuable to you.
I have chosen to write this for a few reasons. First, I think that as you grow older, you will have an ever-increasing desire to recall the character, heart, and memory of your mother. You are so young now and as we grow our memories tend to fade. Life rushes in and we find ourselves busy with many different responsibilities. This is why people take photographs; to aid them in recalling memories they desire to never lose. It was and is important to me, and the members of Integrity Church, to preserve the memory of your mother as best we could for your benefit. This book is intended to be a small collective testimony of the life changing impact Christ had on your mother and, as a result of that life-change, this book is also a testimony to the impact your mother had on us.
Secondly, I write this because I care about you. I care that you know truth. Not only the true personal character of your mother as testified by many who have written in this small book, but also the truth of the Gospel, which your mother believed and taught to you fervently. Truth is important. The Gospel is THE most important thing your mother wanted you to understand, not for her own peace of mind, but for your sake. Without hesitation, I firmly and unequivocally know that she wanted her life to be about pointing you to the Gospel. I do not mean that she wanted you to intellectually comprehend or theoretically understand the Gospel message or say some prayer. What I mean is that she desired that the Gospel would come alive in you. When I say “Gospel” this means that God would:
1. Cause you to recognize your sin.
(Psalm 51:5, Matthew 5:48, James 2:10, Romans 3:10-12, 3:23, 6:23, 1 John 1:8, Ephesians 2:1-3, 8-9, 1 John 3:4)
2. Cause you to genuinely repent from your sin, and admit that you deserve God's wrath for your personal sin.
(Isaiah 64:6, 2 Thess. 1:8-9, Hebrews 4:12-13, 10:31)
3. Cause you to believe, by faith, in the person and work of Christ on the cross was accomplished on your behalf.
(John 8:23, John 1:1-2,14, 10:30-33, 20:30-31, 8:46, 14:6, Mark 2:5)
(Romans 5:8, John 1:12, 3:16, 11:25-26, Acts 20:21, 10:43, Luke 24:47, Mark 1:15, 1 Cor. 15:3-6, Matthew 16:15)
4. Change your heart and to give you a new motivation to love and obey Jesus all the days of your life where you: fight sin, enjoy studying scripture, love the Church and God's people.
(2 Cor. 5:9, 14-15, 17, 13:5, 1 John 4:19-21, 5:3, 3:6, 9, Romans 6:17-18, 7:5-6, 1 Cor. 6:9-11, 1 Peter 1:8-9)
This is what she would have meant by "knowing the Gospel". I know this from personal conversations with your mother and I listened to her weep as she prayed for you to know Jesus and the Gospel personally, intimately and in a life-altering way.
Your mother loved Jesus. I don't mean that she read her Bible and that she went to church on Sundays. I mean that it was holistically evident in the way that she lived her life that she loved Jesus. People would say things to your mother all the time like this, "You are so different." What these people mean when they say that is not that she was weird, but that there was something different in her that was not in most people. People recognized Jesus IN her, but didn't know that He was in fact what they recognized.
Your mother loved Scripture. She came to our church small-group and was so hungry to know more about the character of God and the love of Jesus. She loved to study Scripture. Your mother fought sin in her heart. She was not content with sin she recognized in her life. She wanted to be more and more obedient to Jesus. She made changes in her life and yours, as it would help her best to fight different areas of sin in her heart and life. This is what I mean when I say that your Mother loved Jesus. Loving Jesus was not a religious experience or devotion for her, it WAS who she was, it defined her, it consumed her, it was very personal for her. She wanted to obey Jesus and live a life that was pleasing and honoring to Him. She understood that obeying Jesus WAS to love Jesus.
Your mother died days before she was to celebrate Easter, which is the day Christians celebrate the resurrection of Jesus from the grave. It is the most joyous annual celebration in the life of a Christian. I remember thinking of your mother that Sunday morning as I prepared to go to Church. I said to my wife, "Today, as we celebrate what was accomplished on our behalf and Tonya's through Jesus on the Cross this Easter weekend; while we get to thank Jesus for those scarred hands she gets to hold them." I firmly believe that today. Your mother is with Jesus this very moment. She is enjoying Him and experiencing the great joy of being a daughter of the King of all Kings. She worries about nothing. This is important for you to know with certainty. I know this because Jesus promises this to those who genuinely love Him. (Luke 23:43, Phil. 3:20-21)
When people die, sometimes we hear things like, “She is an angel looking down over us.” I realize that people mean this to comfort. They mean well and say things like that to you out of love for your mother, but I want you to know the truth. I want you to know the truth because truth is what scripture says and it is what your Mother believed. The truth is that your mother is not an angel and she is not looking down on you. The truth is much more beautiful. The truth, scripture tells us, is that God made people in the image of himself (Genesis 1:26-27) NOT in the image of angels. Angels existed before people. Angels serve God and have often served God by announcing his holiness (Isaiah 6:1-3) and being sent to declare the Good news of the Gospel (Luke 2:8-15). However, angels are not dead Christians. They are created beings different from humans made for the purpose of worshipping and glorifying God. Angels were made to serve God by serving man, but man was made to serve God directly. Jesus was sent to earth to die for the people whom God has chosen (Ephesians 1:4-12, 2:1-9, John 6:44, 65, 2 Thess. 2:13-14, Romans 8:29-30). Jesus did not die for the angels. He died for people like your mother, so that she could be with Jesus forever. Jesus paid the penalty for her sins. This truth makes Tonya more special to God than angels because His Son died for her. Jesus purchased Tonya with a great price. Jesus did not do this for angels. Angels do not sit with Jesus, only those for whom Jesus died sit with Him (Ephesians 2:6-7). Tonya sits with Jesus. Scripture tells us not to worship angels (Colossians 2:18). Scripture tells us that angels long to understand the Grace that has been poured out on those whom Jesus died for (1 Peter 1:12) and that those people will one day judge angels (1 Cor. 6:3). To go from being a Christian to becoming an angel would be similar to a job demotion in earthly terms. Christians are united to Jesus in a way angels never will be. You need to understand that your mother is not an angel. She was so loved by Jesus that he came to earth to purchase her eternal life with his very own death. She is fully and completely focused on the joy of being with Jesus. Jesus is that amazing. Jesus is that incredible. Nothing else competes for her full-attention because Jesus loves her that much and because Jesus is that worthy. She is safe. She is loved. She entertains joys unspeakable . . . for all of eternity. That should comfort you and that is true.
Aside from these critical and most important truths, there are only a few things that I wanted to share with you about your mother that I believe she would want you to know confidently and assuredly for the rest of your life.
One: That she loved you. This is as assured as the fact that gravity exists. There is no doubt. I had conversations with her as she wrestled with the reality of raising a son as a single mother. She wanted you to feel as loved and as secure as much as that depended on her. She made tremendous sacrifices personally, financially, and professionally for you to have her present and available as much as possible. Her life revolved around your needs. She didn’t force you to adapt to her life, she made every transition as painless for you as she was able. Never doubt her commitment and love that she had for you. She loved you more than any single person on the planet.
Two: I am praying that as you grow older that you will not be bitter towards God over your mother’s death. No one doubts you have pain and great sorrow over her death. This is expected and understandable. I cannot fully relate to those emotions. I admit that. My mother is not dead. However, scripture does not promise us painless lives here on earth. Scripture promises us an earthly life of meaning and purpose found in Jesus alone (John 10:10) and that the life after this will be painless (Rev. 21:4). Scripture tells us that as sinful people we don’t deserve anything good (Ephesians 2:1-3, Romans 3:10-12, 6:23, Psalm 51:5, 1 John 1:8, Hebrews 10:31). If life is happy and good and joyous then it is meant to speak to our heart that these good things come from God alone (Romans 2:4). If we experience suffering and heartache it is to remind us that we deserve no better and that Jesus is our only hope . . . not things, not money, not people, not pets, not our health, not family, not work or anything else on this earth (Romans 1:19-20, 32). All of that will eventually break-down, disappoint us, or die. Only Jesus can offer lasting hope, fulfillment, forgiveness, love, and peace (John 14:6). Jesus is who we need to run towards. No one is promised tomorrow (James 4:13-14). Who do you say that Jesus is (Matthew 16:15)? This is the most important question of your entire life. It was the most important question of your mother’s life. It is the most important question for anyone’s life. Learn about Jesus. Seek to know Him. Everything depends on how you answer that question (Hebrews 9:27)
I hope that when you read this, God will ignite a desire inside your heart to know Him. Feel free to dialogue with this Church, Integrity, when that time comes. There are many people who love you here. We have committed to pray for you and, if given the opportunity, to teach you about the God whom your mother deeply loved.
Lastly, I have included several pictures that I took of you and your mother. She was always supportive of my photography. She was so gracious with her words of encouragement. She told me she cried when she saw them for the first time. I hope these images will remind you of her and become greatly treasured by you.
May God shine His face upon you,
Craig
Let me preface what I have written: I don’t expect all of what I am writing to make sense to you now. Over time, when you are a little older, I hope you will read this and that it will help you understand more about what your mother treasured in her life and why. It is when you are older that a book like this will become precious and valuable to you.
I have chosen to write this for a few reasons. First, I think that as you grow older, you will have an ever-increasing desire to recall the character, heart, and memory of your mother. You are so young now and as we grow our memories tend to fade. Life rushes in and we find ourselves busy with many different responsibilities. This is why people take photographs; to aid them in recalling memories they desire to never lose. It was and is important to me, and the members of Integrity Church, to preserve the memory of your mother as best we could for your benefit. This book is intended to be a small collective testimony of the life changing impact Christ had on your mother and, as a result of that life-change, this book is also a testimony to the impact your mother had on us.
Secondly, I write this because I care about you. I care that you know truth. Not only the true personal character of your mother as testified by many who have written in this small book, but also the truth of the Gospel, which your mother believed and taught to you fervently. Truth is important. The Gospel is THE most important thing your mother wanted you to understand, not for her own peace of mind, but for your sake. Without hesitation, I firmly and unequivocally know that she wanted her life to be about pointing you to the Gospel. I do not mean that she wanted you to intellectually comprehend or theoretically understand the Gospel message or say some prayer. What I mean is that she desired that the Gospel would come alive in you. When I say “Gospel” this means that God would:
1. Cause you to recognize your sin.
(Psalm 51:5, Matthew 5:48, James 2:10, Romans 3:10-12, 3:23, 6:23, 1 John 1:8, Ephesians 2:1-3, 8-9, 1 John 3:4)
2. Cause you to genuinely repent from your sin, and admit that you deserve God's wrath for your personal sin.
(Isaiah 64:6, 2 Thess. 1:8-9, Hebrews 4:12-13, 10:31)
3. Cause you to believe, by faith, in the person and work of Christ on the cross was accomplished on your behalf.
(John 8:23, John 1:1-2,14, 10:30-33, 20:30-31, 8:46, 14:6, Mark 2:5)
(Romans 5:8, John 1:12, 3:16, 11:25-26, Acts 20:21, 10:43, Luke 24:47, Mark 1:15, 1 Cor. 15:3-6, Matthew 16:15)
4. Change your heart and to give you a new motivation to love and obey Jesus all the days of your life where you: fight sin, enjoy studying scripture, love the Church and God's people.
(2 Cor. 5:9, 14-15, 17, 13:5, 1 John 4:19-21, 5:3, 3:6, 9, Romans 6:17-18, 7:5-6, 1 Cor. 6:9-11, 1 Peter 1:8-9)
This is what she would have meant by "knowing the Gospel". I know this from personal conversations with your mother and I listened to her weep as she prayed for you to know Jesus and the Gospel personally, intimately and in a life-altering way.
Your mother loved Jesus. I don't mean that she read her Bible and that she went to church on Sundays. I mean that it was holistically evident in the way that she lived her life that she loved Jesus. People would say things to your mother all the time like this, "You are so different." What these people mean when they say that is not that she was weird, but that there was something different in her that was not in most people. People recognized Jesus IN her, but didn't know that He was in fact what they recognized.
Your mother loved Scripture. She came to our church small-group and was so hungry to know more about the character of God and the love of Jesus. She loved to study Scripture. Your mother fought sin in her heart. She was not content with sin she recognized in her life. She wanted to be more and more obedient to Jesus. She made changes in her life and yours, as it would help her best to fight different areas of sin in her heart and life. This is what I mean when I say that your Mother loved Jesus. Loving Jesus was not a religious experience or devotion for her, it WAS who she was, it defined her, it consumed her, it was very personal for her. She wanted to obey Jesus and live a life that was pleasing and honoring to Him. She understood that obeying Jesus WAS to love Jesus.
Your mother died days before she was to celebrate Easter, which is the day Christians celebrate the resurrection of Jesus from the grave. It is the most joyous annual celebration in the life of a Christian. I remember thinking of your mother that Sunday morning as I prepared to go to Church. I said to my wife, "Today, as we celebrate what was accomplished on our behalf and Tonya's through Jesus on the Cross this Easter weekend; while we get to thank Jesus for those scarred hands she gets to hold them." I firmly believe that today. Your mother is with Jesus this very moment. She is enjoying Him and experiencing the great joy of being a daughter of the King of all Kings. She worries about nothing. This is important for you to know with certainty. I know this because Jesus promises this to those who genuinely love Him. (Luke 23:43, Phil. 3:20-21)
When people die, sometimes we hear things like, “She is an angel looking down over us.” I realize that people mean this to comfort. They mean well and say things like that to you out of love for your mother, but I want you to know the truth. I want you to know the truth because truth is what scripture says and it is what your Mother believed. The truth is that your mother is not an angel and she is not looking down on you. The truth is much more beautiful. The truth, scripture tells us, is that God made people in the image of himself (Genesis 1:26-27) NOT in the image of angels. Angels existed before people. Angels serve God and have often served God by announcing his holiness (Isaiah 6:1-3) and being sent to declare the Good news of the Gospel (Luke 2:8-15). However, angels are not dead Christians. They are created beings different from humans made for the purpose of worshipping and glorifying God. Angels were made to serve God by serving man, but man was made to serve God directly. Jesus was sent to earth to die for the people whom God has chosen (Ephesians 1:4-12, 2:1-9, John 6:44, 65, 2 Thess. 2:13-14, Romans 8:29-30). Jesus did not die for the angels. He died for people like your mother, so that she could be with Jesus forever. Jesus paid the penalty for her sins. This truth makes Tonya more special to God than angels because His Son died for her. Jesus purchased Tonya with a great price. Jesus did not do this for angels. Angels do not sit with Jesus, only those for whom Jesus died sit with Him (Ephesians 2:6-7). Tonya sits with Jesus. Scripture tells us not to worship angels (Colossians 2:18). Scripture tells us that angels long to understand the Grace that has been poured out on those whom Jesus died for (1 Peter 1:12) and that those people will one day judge angels (1 Cor. 6:3). To go from being a Christian to becoming an angel would be similar to a job demotion in earthly terms. Christians are united to Jesus in a way angels never will be. You need to understand that your mother is not an angel. She was so loved by Jesus that he came to earth to purchase her eternal life with his very own death. She is fully and completely focused on the joy of being with Jesus. Jesus is that amazing. Jesus is that incredible. Nothing else competes for her full-attention because Jesus loves her that much and because Jesus is that worthy. She is safe. She is loved. She entertains joys unspeakable . . . for all of eternity. That should comfort you and that is true.
Aside from these critical and most important truths, there are only a few things that I wanted to share with you about your mother that I believe she would want you to know confidently and assuredly for the rest of your life.
One: That she loved you. This is as assured as the fact that gravity exists. There is no doubt. I had conversations with her as she wrestled with the reality of raising a son as a single mother. She wanted you to feel as loved and as secure as much as that depended on her. She made tremendous sacrifices personally, financially, and professionally for you to have her present and available as much as possible. Her life revolved around your needs. She didn’t force you to adapt to her life, she made every transition as painless for you as she was able. Never doubt her commitment and love that she had for you. She loved you more than any single person on the planet.
Two: I am praying that as you grow older that you will not be bitter towards God over your mother’s death. No one doubts you have pain and great sorrow over her death. This is expected and understandable. I cannot fully relate to those emotions. I admit that. My mother is not dead. However, scripture does not promise us painless lives here on earth. Scripture promises us an earthly life of meaning and purpose found in Jesus alone (John 10:10) and that the life after this will be painless (Rev. 21:4). Scripture tells us that as sinful people we don’t deserve anything good (Ephesians 2:1-3, Romans 3:10-12, 6:23, Psalm 51:5, 1 John 1:8, Hebrews 10:31). If life is happy and good and joyous then it is meant to speak to our heart that these good things come from God alone (Romans 2:4). If we experience suffering and heartache it is to remind us that we deserve no better and that Jesus is our only hope . . . not things, not money, not people, not pets, not our health, not family, not work or anything else on this earth (Romans 1:19-20, 32). All of that will eventually break-down, disappoint us, or die. Only Jesus can offer lasting hope, fulfillment, forgiveness, love, and peace (John 14:6). Jesus is who we need to run towards. No one is promised tomorrow (James 4:13-14). Who do you say that Jesus is (Matthew 16:15)? This is the most important question of your entire life. It was the most important question of your mother’s life. It is the most important question for anyone’s life. Learn about Jesus. Seek to know Him. Everything depends on how you answer that question (Hebrews 9:27)
I hope that when you read this, God will ignite a desire inside your heart to know Him. Feel free to dialogue with this Church, Integrity, when that time comes. There are many people who love you here. We have committed to pray for you and, if given the opportunity, to teach you about the God whom your mother deeply loved.
Lastly, I have included several pictures that I took of you and your mother. She was always supportive of my photography. She was so gracious with her words of encouragement. She told me she cried when she saw them for the first time. I hope these images will remind you of her and become greatly treasured by you.
May God shine His face upon you,
Craig
From Uncle Jason Sessoms
Dylan,
You and Adele became little partners before either of you had even seen daylight. As you were in your Mommy's tummy at the same time that Adele was in your Aunt Beth's tummy. Even then, each time the family got together, you were both talked about as "Dylan and Adele". I have heard those two names said together thousands of times in the last 9 years. Beach trips (short and long), birthday parties, Sunday afternoons... "Dylan and Adele", that is what I heard over and over. I am thankful that Adele has you as a cousin. You have both taught each other the things cousins teach each other (like sticking a straw under your arm to make noises at the dinner table).
Then there was the combination... "Beth and Tonya". That is one I have heard tons of time as well. But the only other combination of names I heard more was "Tonya and Dylan". Me, your aunt Beth and Adele love you so much... but let me tell you something... your mommy loved you like crazy. She loved Jesus more than you but that actually enabled her to love you even more than she could have on her own. And the thing she wanted more than anything for you, was for you to love Jesus. In fact, one of her favorite songs was "How He Loves" by David Crowder, and that is the message that your mom tried to surround you with. And that is the same message that I hope you know to be true and remind yourself of for the rest of your life.
Dylan, I could type all day long telling you about the great memories I had with your mom. I could try to recount the hundreds of thousands of things she did for other people... but the truth is that I would wear out my keyboard even trying to scratch the surface.
Your mom was not perfect, but she knew that Christ's righteousness covered her and presented her to God the Father "as if" she was perfect. And that was such a freeing truth in her life. I hope that you will seek to know that freeing truth in your life as you grow into a young man.
I love you,
uncle jason
You and Adele became little partners before either of you had even seen daylight. As you were in your Mommy's tummy at the same time that Adele was in your Aunt Beth's tummy. Even then, each time the family got together, you were both talked about as "Dylan and Adele". I have heard those two names said together thousands of times in the last 9 years. Beach trips (short and long), birthday parties, Sunday afternoons... "Dylan and Adele", that is what I heard over and over. I am thankful that Adele has you as a cousin. You have both taught each other the things cousins teach each other (like sticking a straw under your arm to make noises at the dinner table).
Then there was the combination... "Beth and Tonya". That is one I have heard tons of time as well. But the only other combination of names I heard more was "Tonya and Dylan". Me, your aunt Beth and Adele love you so much... but let me tell you something... your mommy loved you like crazy. She loved Jesus more than you but that actually enabled her to love you even more than she could have on her own. And the thing she wanted more than anything for you, was for you to love Jesus. In fact, one of her favorite songs was "How He Loves" by David Crowder, and that is the message that your mom tried to surround you with. And that is the same message that I hope you know to be true and remind yourself of for the rest of your life.
Dylan, I could type all day long telling you about the great memories I had with your mom. I could try to recount the hundreds of thousands of things she did for other people... but the truth is that I would wear out my keyboard even trying to scratch the surface.
Your mom was not perfect, but she knew that Christ's righteousness covered her and presented her to God the Father "as if" she was perfect. And that was such a freeing truth in her life. I hope that you will seek to know that freeing truth in your life as you grow into a young man.
I love you,
uncle jason
From Adele Sessoms
Dylan (Peep - the stuffed animal),
Remember making ginger bread houses at Christmas with our moms? Our moms squeezed icing into our mouths! One year Aunt Tonya and I ate so much candy our tongues turned black! She was a good Aunt and I love her very much (plus you).
I love you Dylan always!
Love,
Adele
Remember making ginger bread houses at Christmas with our moms? Our moms squeezed icing into our mouths! One year Aunt Tonya and I ate so much candy our tongues turned black! She was a good Aunt and I love her very much (plus you).
I love you Dylan always!
Love,
Adele
From Aunt Beth Sessoms
Dylan,
I think I should start by reminding you of how much your mom loved the Lord and how she mothered you in a way that showed that. As I parent Adele I am always in awe of how your mom seemed to parent you with an ease that doesn't come naturally to most mothers. I have always said that she was the best mother I knew! Dylan, your mom loved you so very much and she wanted what was best for you. She knew that what was best for you is a relationship with Christ. So, I encourage you to read your Bible, spend time talking with God, tell him your joys and hurts... he will understand. He loves you even more than your mom did (I know that is hard to believe but it is true).
There are so many memories that I am not sure where to begin. When we were little girls your mom and I would spend many hours playing in the woods, with dolls pretending to be mommies, dress up, riding our pony, Princess (who by the way wasn't very nice), playing board games like LIfe, and so much more. Some of my favorite childhood memories with your mom were on Christmas Eve. We would wait up ALL night long together so excited to see our presents on Christmas morning! We LOVED, LOVED, LOVED playing in mud puddles. We got so filthy! We had such a fun childhood together. She was a great sister.
Your mom and I found out we were pregnant about the same time. We were so excited to share pregnancy and motherhood together. That is a priceless gift to me. We watched our bellies grow together, we watched you and Adele take your first steps together, say your first word, start the first day of kindergarten, and so so much more.
I remember one year while we were on our yearly beach vacation with Grammy and Papa (with the horses) I overheard you and your mom reading your bible together in your room. Continue to study God's word as she taught you. One of your mom's favorite things to do at beach was to look for shells. She would go out onto the beach late at night and early in the morning to scour the beach for shells. Last year she hit the jackpot and found all those beautiful whelk shells. She was thrilled!
Then there was the summer we all went to Ocracoke Island because you and Adele were in our cousin's wedding. Your mom took so many pictures of you and Adele all dressed up. She sure loved taking pictures. We all slept in that tiny room together... but we LOVED it! I remember your mom, Uncle Jason, and I watching so proudly as you and Adele danced together with the others in the wedding.
Remember Christmas of 2010 when we all were snowed in at Grammy and Papa's. We all built snowmen... and your mom's had a HUGE bottom and a little bitty head! She was such fun! You guys brought Jingles and he got to play with grammy and papa's dogs and our dog, Sandy. And don't forget that is same Christmas that Aunt Vicki taught us all how to knit! This is also the Christmas that you wrote your mom the beautiful note as a Christmas present and she treasured it so much. What a wonderful and thoughtful son you have been.
I could go on all day about the memories that you two have shared with us. I cherish each and every one. We have so many memories to look back on and smile. I pray that you do just that. I look forward to making many more memories together and watching you grow.
But I think that the one thing I want you to remember... well two things. Number one is that your mom loved the Lord and it was her desire to parent you in a way that showed that. It was her desire that you grow into a Godly man and spend your days on this Earth serving and honoring Christ. Your Uncle Jason and I are here should you ever want to talk with us about that. Number two... WOW did she love you! I can't tell you how many times she told me of her love for you and most days she didn't even have to say it, I could just see it in her eyes as she looked at you. Dylan, you made her so happy. She was in love with being your mother. She said you were the BEST thing God had ever given her. She was right! You brought her unspeakable and undefinable joy.
The only thing that could bring your mom more joy than being with you is to be in the presence of her Savior. That is where she is now Dylan. I know it is hard but we must rest and trust in that hope. There will be days when the hurt is so great, but the hope in Christ is so much greater. Run to him with your hurt, joys, question, struggles, and everything else. That is what your mom did and would encourage you to do. Your Uncle Jason, Adele, and I are always here for you... ALWAYS. We love you so much, so very much.
I love you sweet boy,
Aunt Beth
I think I should start by reminding you of how much your mom loved the Lord and how she mothered you in a way that showed that. As I parent Adele I am always in awe of how your mom seemed to parent you with an ease that doesn't come naturally to most mothers. I have always said that she was the best mother I knew! Dylan, your mom loved you so very much and she wanted what was best for you. She knew that what was best for you is a relationship with Christ. So, I encourage you to read your Bible, spend time talking with God, tell him your joys and hurts... he will understand. He loves you even more than your mom did (I know that is hard to believe but it is true).
There are so many memories that I am not sure where to begin. When we were little girls your mom and I would spend many hours playing in the woods, with dolls pretending to be mommies, dress up, riding our pony, Princess (who by the way wasn't very nice), playing board games like LIfe, and so much more. Some of my favorite childhood memories with your mom were on Christmas Eve. We would wait up ALL night long together so excited to see our presents on Christmas morning! We LOVED, LOVED, LOVED playing in mud puddles. We got so filthy! We had such a fun childhood together. She was a great sister.
Your mom and I found out we were pregnant about the same time. We were so excited to share pregnancy and motherhood together. That is a priceless gift to me. We watched our bellies grow together, we watched you and Adele take your first steps together, say your first word, start the first day of kindergarten, and so so much more.
I remember one year while we were on our yearly beach vacation with Grammy and Papa (with the horses) I overheard you and your mom reading your bible together in your room. Continue to study God's word as she taught you. One of your mom's favorite things to do at beach was to look for shells. She would go out onto the beach late at night and early in the morning to scour the beach for shells. Last year she hit the jackpot and found all those beautiful whelk shells. She was thrilled!
Then there was the summer we all went to Ocracoke Island because you and Adele were in our cousin's wedding. Your mom took so many pictures of you and Adele all dressed up. She sure loved taking pictures. We all slept in that tiny room together... but we LOVED it! I remember your mom, Uncle Jason, and I watching so proudly as you and Adele danced together with the others in the wedding.
Remember Christmas of 2010 when we all were snowed in at Grammy and Papa's. We all built snowmen... and your mom's had a HUGE bottom and a little bitty head! She was such fun! You guys brought Jingles and he got to play with grammy and papa's dogs and our dog, Sandy. And don't forget that is same Christmas that Aunt Vicki taught us all how to knit! This is also the Christmas that you wrote your mom the beautiful note as a Christmas present and she treasured it so much. What a wonderful and thoughtful son you have been.
I could go on all day about the memories that you two have shared with us. I cherish each and every one. We have so many memories to look back on and smile. I pray that you do just that. I look forward to making many more memories together and watching you grow.
But I think that the one thing I want you to remember... well two things. Number one is that your mom loved the Lord and it was her desire to parent you in a way that showed that. It was her desire that you grow into a Godly man and spend your days on this Earth serving and honoring Christ. Your Uncle Jason and I are here should you ever want to talk with us about that. Number two... WOW did she love you! I can't tell you how many times she told me of her love for you and most days she didn't even have to say it, I could just see it in her eyes as she looked at you. Dylan, you made her so happy. She was in love with being your mother. She said you were the BEST thing God had ever given her. She was right! You brought her unspeakable and undefinable joy.
The only thing that could bring your mom more joy than being with you is to be in the presence of her Savior. That is where she is now Dylan. I know it is hard but we must rest and trust in that hope. There will be days when the hurt is so great, but the hope in Christ is so much greater. Run to him with your hurt, joys, question, struggles, and everything else. That is what your mom did and would encourage you to do. Your Uncle Jason, Adele, and I are always here for you... ALWAYS. We love you so much, so very much.
I love you sweet boy,
Aunt Beth
From the Brown Family
Dylan,
We love you like you are part of our family and you and your mom will be part of us forever. Caitlin and Madison love playing with you; they look up to you as a role model and a leader. Your mother has instilled that in you. While the reason that you have hung out with us after school is sad, we have been very HAPPY to spend time with you. I hope you never lose your cheerful spirit, your love of life, your silly grin, and your crazy sayings that made your mom (and me) laugh so hard.
Your mother loved you more than words can express. She sacrificed much to raise you into a strong, intelligent, Christian man. You were ALWAYS her top priority. Always honor her by leading a purpose driven, honorable, Christian life. For me personally, your mom was the kind of lady that made me want to be a better person. She taught me how to love my children a little more, take a little more time to simply breathe and laugh and appreciate life. She made me a better mother and for that I will be eternally grateful. Caitlin and Madison love how she always said "dang" and "Bless your heart." Your mom always gave me coupons for stuff she thought I might buy, samples of new foods she bought, and most of all she gave me a dependable friendship that I miss greatly.
You and your mom have been a blessing in our lives, a blessing that will continue to live on in spirits, thoughts, and inspired actions for the rest of our lives.
We love you.
Seth, Joanna, Caitlin, and Madison Brown
We love you like you are part of our family and you and your mom will be part of us forever. Caitlin and Madison love playing with you; they look up to you as a role model and a leader. Your mother has instilled that in you. While the reason that you have hung out with us after school is sad, we have been very HAPPY to spend time with you. I hope you never lose your cheerful spirit, your love of life, your silly grin, and your crazy sayings that made your mom (and me) laugh so hard.
Your mother loved you more than words can express. She sacrificed much to raise you into a strong, intelligent, Christian man. You were ALWAYS her top priority. Always honor her by leading a purpose driven, honorable, Christian life. For me personally, your mom was the kind of lady that made me want to be a better person. She taught me how to love my children a little more, take a little more time to simply breathe and laugh and appreciate life. She made me a better mother and for that I will be eternally grateful. Caitlin and Madison love how she always said "dang" and "Bless your heart." Your mom always gave me coupons for stuff she thought I might buy, samples of new foods she bought, and most of all she gave me a dependable friendship that I miss greatly.
You and your mom have been a blessing in our lives, a blessing that will continue to live on in spirits, thoughts, and inspired actions for the rest of our lives.
We love you.
Seth, Joanna, Caitlin, and Madison Brown
Tuesday, June 14
From Those Who Attended Tonya's Funeral
At Tonya's funeral those who wanted to write a note for this blog or to Dylan were given some paper and a pen to do so. These are the notes that were collected.
Tonya, Dylan, and I used to go walking every night after work. Tonya and I would walk and Dylan would ride his bike or scooter. We laughed together and would enjoy our time hanging out with Dylan. Tonya helped me stay positive during a very difficult time in my life. I will never forget her spirit!
Rachel Schubert
Portland, Oregon
Tonya - Beautiful girl with an even more beautiful soul. You’re loved so much!
Cendry
Dylan,
I loved your mama so much. Like I told you, I lost my mom the same way! Now God has two very special angels and I want you to know they are always with us. Watch for the butterflies and pennies sweetheart.
Loving you always,
Mrs. Faye Bogle
Dylan and Mrs. Annie,
I just want you both to know that you mean the world to me and my family. Your family will forever be in our hearts, Mama always thought alot of Tonya and now they are once again joined together in heaven. Listen to the song by Beverly Mitchell called “Angel”. If you need, I have the CD.
Loving you aways,
Faye Brown Bogle
Dear, sweet, Dylan -
I love you and always will. Your momma made me a better person. Your momma is alive in my heart and always will be. I cherish our memories all together an look forward to more with you.
XOXO
Aunt Tiffany
(I am always here for you little guy.)
Dearest Dylan -
Your momma loved you more than life itself! Nothing will make her happier than watching you grow up in into a handsome, Christ-loving man, following your Savior in everything you do, every decision you make. She will be right beside you in every step your life takes you saying “That’s my little man, my wonderful gift from God, I love him so much and am so very proud of him.”
We love you so much dear one, dearest Dylan.
All our love,
Grandpa J and Grandma Kathy
Tonya, Dylan, and I used to go walking every night after work. Tonya and I would walk and Dylan would ride his bike or scooter. We laughed together and would enjoy our time hanging out with Dylan. Tonya helped me stay positive during a very difficult time in my life. I will never forget her spirit!
Rachel Schubert
Portland, Oregon
Tonya - Beautiful girl with an even more beautiful soul. You’re loved so much!
Cendry
Dylan,
I loved your mama so much. Like I told you, I lost my mom the same way! Now God has two very special angels and I want you to know they are always with us. Watch for the butterflies and pennies sweetheart.
Loving you always,
Mrs. Faye Bogle
Dylan and Mrs. Annie,
I just want you both to know that you mean the world to me and my family. Your family will forever be in our hearts, Mama always thought alot of Tonya and now they are once again joined together in heaven. Listen to the song by Beverly Mitchell called “Angel”. If you need, I have the CD.
Loving you aways,
Faye Brown Bogle
Dear, sweet, Dylan -
I love you and always will. Your momma made me a better person. Your momma is alive in my heart and always will be. I cherish our memories all together an look forward to more with you.
XOXO
Aunt Tiffany
(I am always here for you little guy.)
Dearest Dylan -
Your momma loved you more than life itself! Nothing will make her happier than watching you grow up in into a handsome, Christ-loving man, following your Savior in everything you do, every decision you make. She will be right beside you in every step your life takes you saying “That’s my little man, my wonderful gift from God, I love him so much and am so very proud of him.”
We love you so much dear one, dearest Dylan.
All our love,
Grandpa J and Grandma Kathy
From Bailey's
Dylan,
We thought it was important that you remember this. It was special to your mother.
Bailey's fine Jewelry ran a marketing promotion close to last Christmas where anyone could write to their business describing why they loved Bailey's Jewelry. If Bailey's chose your particular letter, they would publish the letter in an ad, do a photoshoot of you and give you $500. Tonya decided to write a letter and she won. Below is a picture of the Ad and what the ad reads.
The ad reads:
"Each bead will be with me forever, because each comes from him." - Tonya
"The first Christmas with just the two of us, Dylan was upset that there were no presents for me under the tree. So his grandmother took him shopping, and Carol at Bailey's helped him pick out some Pandora Beads and a bracelet. Christmas morning, you'd think the first thing a child would say is 'I want to open my presents,' But he insisted I open mine first. Now when he walks into Bailey's, Carol and the whole staff know him. He's very proud of it, and I'm very proud of Him. It's become a beautiful tradition."
We thought it was important that you remember this. It was special to your mother.
Bailey's fine Jewelry ran a marketing promotion close to last Christmas where anyone could write to their business describing why they loved Bailey's Jewelry. If Bailey's chose your particular letter, they would publish the letter in an ad, do a photoshoot of you and give you $500. Tonya decided to write a letter and she won. Below is a picture of the Ad and what the ad reads.
The ad reads:
"Each bead will be with me forever, because each comes from him." - Tonya
"The first Christmas with just the two of us, Dylan was upset that there were no presents for me under the tree. So his grandmother took him shopping, and Carol at Bailey's helped him pick out some Pandora Beads and a bracelet. Christmas morning, you'd think the first thing a child would say is 'I want to open my presents,' But he insisted I open mine first. Now when he walks into Bailey's, Carol and the whole staff know him. He's very proud of it, and I'm very proud of Him. It's become a beautiful tradition."
Friday, June 10
From Kim Morrisette
Dylan,
My heart still aches when I think about what happened on April 22, 2011. I remember the phone call informing me of the wreck and the plea to pray for you and your mama. I prayed for you both throughout the rest of that day and into the early hours of the morning. With sobs and tears I laid on my bed and waited for the phone to ring with an update. I gave praise to the Lord that your mama, Tonya, was a follower of Christ and that regardless of what happened she would be safe in His arms. As I waited and prayed memories flooded my mind. The memories that I have of your mama are surrounded by her love of Christ, her love for others and the JOY that filled your home because of His redeeming love.
The first time I met y'all was when our church was meeting in the BCM. Your uncle Jason was leading worship that morning and y'all came to Integrity to visit since he and Beth were there. I knew your aunt and uncle from high school so there was an instant connection. They introduced me to Tonya and we hit it off right away. Y'all started coming to our life group and I LOVED getting to know her. She was such a fun woman and she wasn't afraid to share her story with others. She was hungry to study God's word and to grow. We started spending time with y'all outside of church and my kids loved both of you. Caleb has always loved playing with you and you were so kind and gracious to enjoy him even though he was almost three years younger. Tonya was like an aunt to Lydia and often times I thought of her like my own sister. Lydia affectionately referred to as "Tonja" and I think she secretly liked it:) Your mama loved Lydia to pieces. Lydia still tells me a few times a week that she misses Tonya and wishes she could give her another hug. Your mama and I had some of the best conversations that girlfriends could have . . . not just about clothes, photography or cooking. We talked about our relationships with Christ and our desire to live to honor Him daily in the midst of life. She loved you second only to Jesus and her heart longed to honor Him as she raised you.
We did both enjoy photography and going out to shoot together. She always had a natural eye with the camera and you were her favorite subject to photograph. I remember going to Sundays in the Park which were always fun no matter who was playing. I remember going on a girl date with her and Lydia while you, Caleb, Craig and Jake went to an ECU football game. I remember spending one New Year's Eve with her and Heidi Bell. We went to the Hilton to hear Matt's band ring in the New Year. We laughed alot together that night. You and my kids stayed at our house with my mama. We had a sleepover that night and enjoyed a slow morning together the next day. I will never forget the Christmas party two years ago for Integrity Church. Your mama and I sang karaoke and we were both scared to death! We sang "Lean on Me". We sang it loud and we sang it proud . . . and we both had fun doing it. It was the perfect song for our friendship at that time. We also had a Christmas baking night at my house that year. Remember that? Y'all were on your way here and your car ran out of gas? I had to come and bring you our gas can so you could make it to the gas station. We laughed so hard after it happened. You and my kids helped roll the peanut butter balls and dipped them in chocolate. It was a MESS but they sure were delicious. We also made Christmas cookies, peppermint bark, oreo balls and the list goes on. Your mama was always an awesome cook! She made the B.E.S.T. baked spaghetti I've ever tasted. I think it's the cup of sugar she added to the sauce;) One of my favorite memories of you and your mama was last summer when my dad was really sick. After a very long day at work y'all went to visit him at the hospital. She said y'all had a good time with him. She went a second day that week on her lunch break to visit. It meant the world to me. I didn't ask anyone to go and visit him - y'all just did it because you loved me. I'm crying now as I think back to the many acts of love and service that your mama gave to others. They were often quiet acts that were not done for show or recognition. Her heart genuinely loved others and wanted to serve them. I learned a lot by watching her sacrifice personal time and energy in the midst of being a single mom. I miss her dearly and wish we could have had one last conversation. Your mom was a special friend in my life. I loved her and I love you. I know that you admired her and will always think back on the many wonderful times you had together - just the two of you. May you always be drawn back to her love for Jesus and seek to know Him the way she did. I'll pray for you for years to come and I can't wait to hear where you are and what you are doing twenty years from now. If you're ever in Greenville and want a hot meal, a warm bed or some family time - please remember Kim and Craig Morrisette. We love you!
My heart still aches when I think about what happened on April 22, 2011. I remember the phone call informing me of the wreck and the plea to pray for you and your mama. I prayed for you both throughout the rest of that day and into the early hours of the morning. With sobs and tears I laid on my bed and waited for the phone to ring with an update. I gave praise to the Lord that your mama, Tonya, was a follower of Christ and that regardless of what happened she would be safe in His arms. As I waited and prayed memories flooded my mind. The memories that I have of your mama are surrounded by her love of Christ, her love for others and the JOY that filled your home because of His redeeming love.
The first time I met y'all was when our church was meeting in the BCM. Your uncle Jason was leading worship that morning and y'all came to Integrity to visit since he and Beth were there. I knew your aunt and uncle from high school so there was an instant connection. They introduced me to Tonya and we hit it off right away. Y'all started coming to our life group and I LOVED getting to know her. She was such a fun woman and she wasn't afraid to share her story with others. She was hungry to study God's word and to grow. We started spending time with y'all outside of church and my kids loved both of you. Caleb has always loved playing with you and you were so kind and gracious to enjoy him even though he was almost three years younger. Tonya was like an aunt to Lydia and often times I thought of her like my own sister. Lydia affectionately referred to as "Tonja" and I think she secretly liked it:) Your mama loved Lydia to pieces. Lydia still tells me a few times a week that she misses Tonya and wishes she could give her another hug. Your mama and I had some of the best conversations that girlfriends could have . . . not just about clothes, photography or cooking. We talked about our relationships with Christ and our desire to live to honor Him daily in the midst of life. She loved you second only to Jesus and her heart longed to honor Him as she raised you.
We did both enjoy photography and going out to shoot together. She always had a natural eye with the camera and you were her favorite subject to photograph. I remember going to Sundays in the Park which were always fun no matter who was playing. I remember going on a girl date with her and Lydia while you, Caleb, Craig and Jake went to an ECU football game. I remember spending one New Year's Eve with her and Heidi Bell. We went to the Hilton to hear Matt's band ring in the New Year. We laughed alot together that night. You and my kids stayed at our house with my mama. We had a sleepover that night and enjoyed a slow morning together the next day. I will never forget the Christmas party two years ago for Integrity Church. Your mama and I sang karaoke and we were both scared to death! We sang "Lean on Me". We sang it loud and we sang it proud . . . and we both had fun doing it. It was the perfect song for our friendship at that time. We also had a Christmas baking night at my house that year. Remember that? Y'all were on your way here and your car ran out of gas? I had to come and bring you our gas can so you could make it to the gas station. We laughed so hard after it happened. You and my kids helped roll the peanut butter balls and dipped them in chocolate. It was a MESS but they sure were delicious. We also made Christmas cookies, peppermint bark, oreo balls and the list goes on. Your mama was always an awesome cook! She made the B.E.S.T. baked spaghetti I've ever tasted. I think it's the cup of sugar she added to the sauce;) One of my favorite memories of you and your mama was last summer when my dad was really sick. After a very long day at work y'all went to visit him at the hospital. She said y'all had a good time with him. She went a second day that week on her lunch break to visit. It meant the world to me. I didn't ask anyone to go and visit him - y'all just did it because you loved me. I'm crying now as I think back to the many acts of love and service that your mama gave to others. They were often quiet acts that were not done for show or recognition. Her heart genuinely loved others and wanted to serve them. I learned a lot by watching her sacrifice personal time and energy in the midst of being a single mom. I miss her dearly and wish we could have had one last conversation. Your mom was a special friend in my life. I loved her and I love you. I know that you admired her and will always think back on the many wonderful times you had together - just the two of you. May you always be drawn back to her love for Jesus and seek to know Him the way she did. I'll pray for you for years to come and I can't wait to hear where you are and what you are doing twenty years from now. If you're ever in Greenville and want a hot meal, a warm bed or some family time - please remember Kim and Craig Morrisette. We love you!
Sunday, June 5
From Jake Sherron
Dylan,
You're an important part of my life. I’m thankful for the opportunity your mother gave me to spend time with you. I consider your mother an excellent friend of mine. I’m honored to have known her, and along with my wife Mitzi, will miss her greatly. The memories we have with her bring smiles to our faces because she truly was a gift from God.
Your mother has been a rare jewel in my life. There aren’t many who’ve shown me such love and attention. She was remarkable and took such care to invest in in my family’s life, that at times, it made us laugh. In fact, while in college, Tonya made the observation that I had only four outfits. Your mom, naturally caring for me, purchased new clothes for me to wear. The two of you (you were always by her side smiling) walked into church together with a bag full of brand new clothes for me! She’d surprise me all the time with stuff like this!
I felt safe around your mother because I knew she wanted the best for me and looked for ways to straighten me up. She carried herself like this around most people. She was an excellent mother to you and she was considered a motherly figure by many people.
Your mother loved her church, Integrity. You both came to Integrity in 2008. Your mom was hungry for the word of God and eager to get involved in the church family. Her personality was amazing and we all immediately were drawn to her. She became a valuable member of the church because of who she was. She was excellent friends with most of the women and loved to learn about parenting. She was a very teachable person, and loved to learn from the Bible. She was trustworthy, we could trust her with anything. The leaders could give her a responsibility and rest be assured that it would be done on time and with excellence. Your mother was a leader and a hard worker. She took her responsibilities very seriously. Most of all, we are going to miss your mother because she was a great friend to everyone. As a church family, we will miss her deeply, but we know we will see her again because of what Christ did for her on the Cross.
When people think of your mom, they immediately think of how great of a mother she was and the incredible love she showed you! Dylan, you are her sweet peach, her life, her dinner date, her everything. I am very proud of you. You wouldn't be who you are without the love your mother has shown you. I want you to consider how much your mom loved you. And why she loved you. She loved you more than the average mom because Christ had loved her and had given her a new heart. Her desire for you was that you’d grow into a man who loves Jesus and loves other people. Your young, and my hope is you never forget the wonderful mom you had. She would teach you to learn the Gospel and be transformed by God’s grace through Jesus, and out of your love for God, to learn from His word and love others as yourself because these are things she did because she she knew God had forgiven her through Christ.
My prayer for you is that you would not grow angry towards God but would run to Him for He is the only place to run in difficult times. You can miss your mother, it’s okay. You can cry over her. It’s okay to cry over someone so special. She was a remarkable woman who was loved by Jesus, and because of that... loved others and especially you... Dylan.
The Bible says that angels stretch their necks out in order to gaze into the grace of God that he has shown believers. Angels are jealous over what your mother is experiencing. She is in heaven with God. Heaven is wonderful, not because of streets of gold or pearly gates. Those things become boring after a while. Heaven is heaven because God is there. He is more beautiful than anything we could ever imagine. He has taken Tonya to experience His presence forever, away from all sickness, sin, and frustration. She is in paradise. She is with God. Your mom wants you to know that Jesus is better than life itself.
Dylan, you’ll always be an important part of my life and I’m looking forward to seeing you grow into a man who understands his need of God’s transforming grace through His Son Jesus. I will always miss your mom and I’m thankful to have known such a remarkable lady.
Enjoy His Grace,
Jake Sherron
You're an important part of my life. I’m thankful for the opportunity your mother gave me to spend time with you. I consider your mother an excellent friend of mine. I’m honored to have known her, and along with my wife Mitzi, will miss her greatly. The memories we have with her bring smiles to our faces because she truly was a gift from God.
Your mother has been a rare jewel in my life. There aren’t many who’ve shown me such love and attention. She was remarkable and took such care to invest in in my family’s life, that at times, it made us laugh. In fact, while in college, Tonya made the observation that I had only four outfits. Your mom, naturally caring for me, purchased new clothes for me to wear. The two of you (you were always by her side smiling) walked into church together with a bag full of brand new clothes for me! She’d surprise me all the time with stuff like this!
I felt safe around your mother because I knew she wanted the best for me and looked for ways to straighten me up. She carried herself like this around most people. She was an excellent mother to you and she was considered a motherly figure by many people.
Your mother loved her church, Integrity. You both came to Integrity in 2008. Your mom was hungry for the word of God and eager to get involved in the church family. Her personality was amazing and we all immediately were drawn to her. She became a valuable member of the church because of who she was. She was excellent friends with most of the women and loved to learn about parenting. She was a very teachable person, and loved to learn from the Bible. She was trustworthy, we could trust her with anything. The leaders could give her a responsibility and rest be assured that it would be done on time and with excellence. Your mother was a leader and a hard worker. She took her responsibilities very seriously. Most of all, we are going to miss your mother because she was a great friend to everyone. As a church family, we will miss her deeply, but we know we will see her again because of what Christ did for her on the Cross.
When people think of your mom, they immediately think of how great of a mother she was and the incredible love she showed you! Dylan, you are her sweet peach, her life, her dinner date, her everything. I am very proud of you. You wouldn't be who you are without the love your mother has shown you. I want you to consider how much your mom loved you. And why she loved you. She loved you more than the average mom because Christ had loved her and had given her a new heart. Her desire for you was that you’d grow into a man who loves Jesus and loves other people. Your young, and my hope is you never forget the wonderful mom you had. She would teach you to learn the Gospel and be transformed by God’s grace through Jesus, and out of your love for God, to learn from His word and love others as yourself because these are things she did because she she knew God had forgiven her through Christ.
My prayer for you is that you would not grow angry towards God but would run to Him for He is the only place to run in difficult times. You can miss your mother, it’s okay. You can cry over her. It’s okay to cry over someone so special. She was a remarkable woman who was loved by Jesus, and because of that... loved others and especially you... Dylan.
The Bible says that angels stretch their necks out in order to gaze into the grace of God that he has shown believers. Angels are jealous over what your mother is experiencing. She is in heaven with God. Heaven is wonderful, not because of streets of gold or pearly gates. Those things become boring after a while. Heaven is heaven because God is there. He is more beautiful than anything we could ever imagine. He has taken Tonya to experience His presence forever, away from all sickness, sin, and frustration. She is in paradise. She is with God. Your mom wants you to know that Jesus is better than life itself.
Dylan, you’ll always be an important part of my life and I’m looking forward to seeing you grow into a man who understands his need of God’s transforming grace through His Son Jesus. I will always miss your mom and I’m thankful to have known such a remarkable lady.
Enjoy His Grace,
Jake Sherron
Thursday, May 26
From Rachel Fortney
Dylan:
I don’t have any special pictures of your momma to share, but I think that is okay…there are so many beautiful special pictures of your momma, and of your momma and you together! She loved you so much, and made so many special times and special memories for the two of you to share.
I have only been at Integrity Church for a few months, so I didn’t get to know Tonya as well as some people, but she blessed me so much in the short time I knew her. She was so kind and welcoming to me as a visitor and a new part of Integrity. I looked for her every week, knowing I could count on a warm hello and hug.
Your momma was one of the most alive people I have ever met: spunky, friendly, joyful, smart, sweet, caring, generous….and it was obvious that her life came from Jesus. I was reminded of this again as I looked at the slideshow during her funeral of all the pictures; I couldn’t help but notice the difference in her face. In the pictures from the last few years, your momma’s face just shone with a vibrant life that could only come from Jesus. Jesus makes us truly alive, and your momma was one of the most beautiful and inspiring examples of that truth that I have ever seen.
Rachel Fortney
I don’t have any special pictures of your momma to share, but I think that is okay…there are so many beautiful special pictures of your momma, and of your momma and you together! She loved you so much, and made so many special times and special memories for the two of you to share.
I have only been at Integrity Church for a few months, so I didn’t get to know Tonya as well as some people, but she blessed me so much in the short time I knew her. She was so kind and welcoming to me as a visitor and a new part of Integrity. I looked for her every week, knowing I could count on a warm hello and hug.
Your momma was one of the most alive people I have ever met: spunky, friendly, joyful, smart, sweet, caring, generous….and it was obvious that her life came from Jesus. I was reminded of this again as I looked at the slideshow during her funeral of all the pictures; I couldn’t help but notice the difference in her face. In the pictures from the last few years, your momma’s face just shone with a vibrant life that could only come from Jesus. Jesus makes us truly alive, and your momma was one of the most beautiful and inspiring examples of that truth that I have ever seen.
Rachel Fortney
Sunday, May 22
From Amanda Meyer
Dear Dylan,
Your mom, where to start? She was one of the loveliest women I have ever met, inside and out. She was one of the very first people I met when I started coming to Integrity Church and I immediately fell in love with her sweet southern accent. She was so welcoming and inviting to every single person that she came into contact with. Her love for Christ was so evident and second only to her love for Jesus, was her love for you. My, how she loved you! I've met few women in my life who have loved the way she did. She taught you about Jesus, prayed for you whole heartedly and gushed over you when you were and weren't around. She was so proud of you! All of this, you know first hand because you were the object of her affection and so precious to her in every way.
I remember going to see Grady sing one night at Moe's. Your mom asked me if you and her could come sit with me? I was so thrilled that you both decided to come. It was one of the sweetest times I shared with you and your mom. It was so fun sitting and talking with her and learning about her life and how much she loved you, how much she loved Jesus and how much she loved Integrity Church.
Your mom will be missed so much. She is loved by so many and her testimony of love, faith and perseverance in Christ will cary on. Grady and I will continue to pray for you and your family. You are so loved by Jesus, and so many around you. It is our prayer that you experience this unchanging, unconditional love from Jesus that your mom knew so well.
We love you Dylan!
Amanda and Grady
Your mom, where to start? She was one of the loveliest women I have ever met, inside and out. She was one of the very first people I met when I started coming to Integrity Church and I immediately fell in love with her sweet southern accent. She was so welcoming and inviting to every single person that she came into contact with. Her love for Christ was so evident and second only to her love for Jesus, was her love for you. My, how she loved you! I've met few women in my life who have loved the way she did. She taught you about Jesus, prayed for you whole heartedly and gushed over you when you were and weren't around. She was so proud of you! All of this, you know first hand because you were the object of her affection and so precious to her in every way.
I remember going to see Grady sing one night at Moe's. Your mom asked me if you and her could come sit with me? I was so thrilled that you both decided to come. It was one of the sweetest times I shared with you and your mom. It was so fun sitting and talking with her and learning about her life and how much she loved you, how much she loved Jesus and how much she loved Integrity Church.
Your mom will be missed so much. She is loved by so many and her testimony of love, faith and perseverance in Christ will cary on. Grady and I will continue to pray for you and your family. You are so loved by Jesus, and so many around you. It is our prayer that you experience this unchanging, unconditional love from Jesus that your mom knew so well.
We love you Dylan!
Amanda and Grady
From Tiffany Karr
Hello sweet Dylan,
Your mother and I spent the last few years really getting to know eachother. I had the pleasure of meeting your mother through your father. We met in Florida, do you remember that trip? Jennifer and I flew in to meet everyone from California, and to meet you and your mom for the first time. You were bouncing bed to bed in the hotel room as we chatted and got to know one another. When you dad deployed to Iraq, I had the unique pleasure of serving your mother as her key volunteer spouse. It was during this deployment that your mother and I developed a special, unique friendship that will last a lifetime.
That summer, in July, you and your mother came to California to visit me. We all had such a great time! Do you remember the ocean, getting buried in the sand, and the huge play area set up for us! Your mother was introduced to all the other spouses of the military men your father knew. It was love at first sight! Seriously, every woman she met was so pleased to meet your mother and she developed many friendships from this trip. That October you and your mother came back to California to welcome your father home from Iraq. We carved pumpkins and we really had a nice time together. Your mother was so patient with me, who had no kids yet! In showing me the gentle way she mothered you. It was Tonya I called first to tell her when I got pregnant, and your mother screamed and was so joyous for me, the way a sister would. She is so special.
The last time I saw you two was last Easter. Levi, my son, was born and the two of you came down to meet him! You treated him like your little brother, and you would tell your mother things you planned on teaching Levi! It was such a fun trip, and so neat to see the way you interacted with Levi. We went to the zoo and explored St Louis in the sticky heat. Your mother taught me how to coupon! She had such passion for things in life. She would light up when she talked about you, and had a sparkle in her eye when she watched you. She was so proud of you and so proud to be your mother! I think many of us can agree that the way she parented you was the way we all wish to parent. You two traveled a lot recently, you both went to New York and D.C. among other places. I enjoyed the way your mother shared her love for life and for you through the pictures she took. You two have so much love, and such a connection.
I do not know why these things happen Dylan. I have to rely on the promise of the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the promise that we will all be together again as my strength. You are her peach, always will be her peach, and she will always be your momma. I love you very much Dylan, and want you to know that I am only a phone call away. I would love for you to still teach Levi things, and visit us as often as you like. I knew I met a friend for life when I met your mother and what an honor to have met her and you, you are my friend for life too sweet Dylan.
Justin, Tiffany, and Levi Karr
Your mother and I spent the last few years really getting to know eachother. I had the pleasure of meeting your mother through your father. We met in Florida, do you remember that trip? Jennifer and I flew in to meet everyone from California, and to meet you and your mom for the first time. You were bouncing bed to bed in the hotel room as we chatted and got to know one another. When you dad deployed to Iraq, I had the unique pleasure of serving your mother as her key volunteer spouse. It was during this deployment that your mother and I developed a special, unique friendship that will last a lifetime.
That summer, in July, you and your mother came to California to visit me. We all had such a great time! Do you remember the ocean, getting buried in the sand, and the huge play area set up for us! Your mother was introduced to all the other spouses of the military men your father knew. It was love at first sight! Seriously, every woman she met was so pleased to meet your mother and she developed many friendships from this trip. That October you and your mother came back to California to welcome your father home from Iraq. We carved pumpkins and we really had a nice time together. Your mother was so patient with me, who had no kids yet! In showing me the gentle way she mothered you. It was Tonya I called first to tell her when I got pregnant, and your mother screamed and was so joyous for me, the way a sister would. She is so special.
The last time I saw you two was last Easter. Levi, my son, was born and the two of you came down to meet him! You treated him like your little brother, and you would tell your mother things you planned on teaching Levi! It was such a fun trip, and so neat to see the way you interacted with Levi. We went to the zoo and explored St Louis in the sticky heat. Your mother taught me how to coupon! She had such passion for things in life. She would light up when she talked about you, and had a sparkle in her eye when she watched you. She was so proud of you and so proud to be your mother! I think many of us can agree that the way she parented you was the way we all wish to parent. You two traveled a lot recently, you both went to New York and D.C. among other places. I enjoyed the way your mother shared her love for life and for you through the pictures she took. You two have so much love, and such a connection.
I do not know why these things happen Dylan. I have to rely on the promise of the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the promise that we will all be together again as my strength. You are her peach, always will be her peach, and she will always be your momma. I love you very much Dylan, and want you to know that I am only a phone call away. I would love for you to still teach Levi things, and visit us as often as you like. I knew I met a friend for life when I met your mother and what an honor to have met her and you, you are my friend for life too sweet Dylan.
Justin, Tiffany, and Levi Karr
Friday, May 6
From Emily Bellis
Dylan,
I remember the first time Jackson (my husband) and I met your mom. We both started attending Integrity Church around the same time and we met over at the Webster’s for a church event dinner. The first thing I noticed about her was her vibrant smile and love of life. She had a personality that was bigger than life and every time I saw her I was reminded of the joy she had in Christ.
I also remember when she was planning your trip to NYC. Jackson and I had traveled there a couple of months prior and she was trying to make your trip so special and wanted to know all the spots to visit. I remember her telling me about how you both watched the movie “BIG” so that you could see the “Big Piano” that you would later go on to see at the FAO Schwarz toy story in NYC. I know God planned this trip for just the two of you – a time for you both to bond and spend quality time together. She was so proud of you and always lit up when she spoke of you. She will be deeply missed but know that “For those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.”
Love,
Emily Bellis
I remember the first time Jackson (my husband) and I met your mom. We both started attending Integrity Church around the same time and we met over at the Webster’s for a church event dinner. The first thing I noticed about her was her vibrant smile and love of life. She had a personality that was bigger than life and every time I saw her I was reminded of the joy she had in Christ.
I also remember when she was planning your trip to NYC. Jackson and I had traveled there a couple of months prior and she was trying to make your trip so special and wanted to know all the spots to visit. I remember her telling me about how you both watched the movie “BIG” so that you could see the “Big Piano” that you would later go on to see at the FAO Schwarz toy story in NYC. I know God planned this trip for just the two of you – a time for you both to bond and spend quality time together. She was so proud of you and always lit up when she spoke of you. She will be deeply missed but know that “For those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.”
Love,
Emily Bellis
Tuesday, May 3
From Mitzi Sherron
Dylan,
I knew your mom as a believer. Her life as a Christian was marked by her joy that she carried with her everywhere. I know that this joy was given to her by our great, merciful God showing her kindness. Her life was also marked by selfless service to the body of Christ, the church. She served me in several ways over the three years I knew her.
One of my favorite memories was last year about this time. I was engaged to be married to Jake and your mom offered to help me address the invitations to our wedding. She had pretty cursive writing and so I invited her over to my apartment and we sat and talked for several hours addressing one envelope after another and stuffing the invitations. We laughed and joked and talked about my preparations for marriage and the life of a certain Mr. Dylan Watt.
While we were working our way towards carpal tunnel syndrome, you and Jake left to hang out for a little while. Your birthday had just passed and so Jake took you to Toys R Us to pick out a birthday present. I don’t remember what you came back with but Jake called it a “poof ball” and we think it was a stuffed animal. Anyway, you guys stayed in the store playing with and inspecting toys until they announced over the PA that the store would be closing. You came back so excited saying it was “the best night ever” and your mom talked about your excitement for weeks! She always loved it when you enjoyed hanging out with the men in the church.
A couple months later, you both traveled to Claremont, NC to attend our wedding. You were going to hand out the programs at the ceremony.
Before we were ever engaged, I remember your mom reciting to me a conversation that you and she had. I don’t recall how it started, but you said, “Mom, Jake’s not ever going to get married!”. Your mom said “Dylan, I think that Jake and Mitzi might get married”. And you told her, “Well, if they do, I’m going to be in that wedding!” And so, you were.
At the rehearsal dinner, your mom and you sat at a table with my mentor and friend, Christy Trouille, and her family. They hadn’t met before but Christy told me later that she loved your mom and enjoyed talking with her about you and Marcee (Christy’s daughter). Marcee was just a year younger than you. Christy and your mom kept in touch via email and Facebook ever since. Your mom could meet someone and almost immediately find something she had in common with them or something interesting about them to engage in conversation about. She was quite a networker!
Perhaps one of the greatest ways your mom has served me, is by teaching me how to coupon. She would talk about how much money she would save on groceries and invite us over for steaks when she got them on sale. When we got married we were close to broke and so I asked her to teach me this great craft. She showed me how she would cut, fold, and organize her coupons into baseball card sleeves. She told me which newspapers to buy to get the most coupons. She took me to Harris Teeter and taught me the tricks of the trade as we went sale item by sale item matching coupons to sales. She even had the “master of coupons”, a lady with a couponing blog, come to Greenville and host classes. I would call your mom when I had some great shopping experiences and tell her how much I saved. She would be more excited than I was!
Dylan, your mom, Tonya, was a humble lady who loved the Lord! She wanted you to grow up with a knowledge of the Bible and she prayed that God would give you a heart that loved and desired Him. This was the greatest wish she could have for you.
I pray that you will take your sweet memories of your mom and store them up in your heart, that you praise God for the gift he gave you in your mom and that you would meet with her again in the presence of Christ!
With love,
Mitzi Sherron
Our Wedding:
I knew your mom as a believer. Her life as a Christian was marked by her joy that she carried with her everywhere. I know that this joy was given to her by our great, merciful God showing her kindness. Her life was also marked by selfless service to the body of Christ, the church. She served me in several ways over the three years I knew her.
One of my favorite memories was last year about this time. I was engaged to be married to Jake and your mom offered to help me address the invitations to our wedding. She had pretty cursive writing and so I invited her over to my apartment and we sat and talked for several hours addressing one envelope after another and stuffing the invitations. We laughed and joked and talked about my preparations for marriage and the life of a certain Mr. Dylan Watt.
While we were working our way towards carpal tunnel syndrome, you and Jake left to hang out for a little while. Your birthday had just passed and so Jake took you to Toys R Us to pick out a birthday present. I don’t remember what you came back with but Jake called it a “poof ball” and we think it was a stuffed animal. Anyway, you guys stayed in the store playing with and inspecting toys until they announced over the PA that the store would be closing. You came back so excited saying it was “the best night ever” and your mom talked about your excitement for weeks! She always loved it when you enjoyed hanging out with the men in the church.
A couple months later, you both traveled to Claremont, NC to attend our wedding. You were going to hand out the programs at the ceremony.
Before we were ever engaged, I remember your mom reciting to me a conversation that you and she had. I don’t recall how it started, but you said, “Mom, Jake’s not ever going to get married!”. Your mom said “Dylan, I think that Jake and Mitzi might get married”. And you told her, “Well, if they do, I’m going to be in that wedding!” And so, you were.
At the rehearsal dinner, your mom and you sat at a table with my mentor and friend, Christy Trouille, and her family. They hadn’t met before but Christy told me later that she loved your mom and enjoyed talking with her about you and Marcee (Christy’s daughter). Marcee was just a year younger than you. Christy and your mom kept in touch via email and Facebook ever since. Your mom could meet someone and almost immediately find something she had in common with them or something interesting about them to engage in conversation about. She was quite a networker!
Perhaps one of the greatest ways your mom has served me, is by teaching me how to coupon. She would talk about how much money she would save on groceries and invite us over for steaks when she got them on sale. When we got married we were close to broke and so I asked her to teach me this great craft. She showed me how she would cut, fold, and organize her coupons into baseball card sleeves. She told me which newspapers to buy to get the most coupons. She took me to Harris Teeter and taught me the tricks of the trade as we went sale item by sale item matching coupons to sales. She even had the “master of coupons”, a lady with a couponing blog, come to Greenville and host classes. I would call your mom when I had some great shopping experiences and tell her how much I saved. She would be more excited than I was!
Dylan, your mom, Tonya, was a humble lady who loved the Lord! She wanted you to grow up with a knowledge of the Bible and she prayed that God would give you a heart that loved and desired Him. This was the greatest wish she could have for you.
I pray that you will take your sweet memories of your mom and store them up in your heart, that you praise God for the gift he gave you in your mom and that you would meet with her again in the presence of Christ!
With love,
Mitzi Sherron
Our Wedding:
From Joey and Deanna Snead
Dylan,
I too, like others, did not have the privilege of knowing your mom all too long, since we have only been attending Integrity church for a few months permanently, but I have to concur with what others have said about your mom representing Jesus, our Lord and Saviour, as well as one can this side of Glory. Back in November of 2010, on a visit to Integrity, with my daughter, something awesome happened. After service, your mom followed us out to our car, and really reached out to me in a way that is all too uncommon in most churches today. Your mom, with you beside her, asked several questions about myself, my daughter, my family and took the extra five minutes that makes a visitor, to unfamiliar surroundings, feel at home. It was a very important gesture to me, as I found her spirit overwhelmingly one of love and joy. A few weeks later, as we were telling a few friends of God's decision for us to make Integrity our home church, one of my wife's friends proclaimed that we had to get to know "Tonya Watt, because she is awesome", and that you "would know her by her smile and sweet spirit". It wasn't until a few weeks later, that I made the connection on who Tonya was. My wife met her within one week, and a friendship, like many of the others who are writing to you, was established with my wife, Deanna, as well. You see Dylan, your mom's testimony of her love for Jesus was not confined to just Integrity church. She touched a lot of lives, and it appears that she has shaped yours as well. We will be praying, that when times get tough for you Dylan, that you will call on Jesus, and he will provide the comfort that you need, and that only He can provide. Dylan, remember above all else that God loves you.
Joey and Deanna Snead
I too, like others, did not have the privilege of knowing your mom all too long, since we have only been attending Integrity church for a few months permanently, but I have to concur with what others have said about your mom representing Jesus, our Lord and Saviour, as well as one can this side of Glory. Back in November of 2010, on a visit to Integrity, with my daughter, something awesome happened. After service, your mom followed us out to our car, and really reached out to me in a way that is all too uncommon in most churches today. Your mom, with you beside her, asked several questions about myself, my daughter, my family and took the extra five minutes that makes a visitor, to unfamiliar surroundings, feel at home. It was a very important gesture to me, as I found her spirit overwhelmingly one of love and joy. A few weeks later, as we were telling a few friends of God's decision for us to make Integrity our home church, one of my wife's friends proclaimed that we had to get to know "Tonya Watt, because she is awesome", and that you "would know her by her smile and sweet spirit". It wasn't until a few weeks later, that I made the connection on who Tonya was. My wife met her within one week, and a friendship, like many of the others who are writing to you, was established with my wife, Deanna, as well. You see Dylan, your mom's testimony of her love for Jesus was not confined to just Integrity church. She touched a lot of lives, and it appears that she has shaped yours as well. We will be praying, that when times get tough for you Dylan, that you will call on Jesus, and he will provide the comfort that you need, and that only He can provide. Dylan, remember above all else that God loves you.
Joey and Deanna Snead
From Sarah Sparrow
Dear Dylan,
I know that right now you must be hurting more than I could imagine. I am praying that Jesus will hold your heart and guide you through your sadness.
Your mama was such a blessing to our church and to me personally. She was always willing to help; she served others with a passion that I love and admire. The last time that I saw your mom she was helping me with my senior research project. Without even letting me finish my request that she be one of my study subjects, with her sparkling eyes and willing heart she said, "Tell me what to do!" A few weeks later, she beckoned me out to your car after church so she could return to me the survey. That's just the kind of person she was. She was organized, yes, but she was first and foremost loving to people. And she loved until the very end. Second only to Jesus, she loved YOU, Dylan. She loved you so much.
There are so many things that don't make sense in life; this is one of those times for all of us. I know that it may never make sense to you, but I hope and pray that you find Jesus in the middle of this sadness - He is the only one who can rescue us, Dylan. Your mom knew that, and she is with Jesus today. I can't wait to see her again, buddy.
Love,
Sarah Sparrow
I know that right now you must be hurting more than I could imagine. I am praying that Jesus will hold your heart and guide you through your sadness.
Your mama was such a blessing to our church and to me personally. She was always willing to help; she served others with a passion that I love and admire. The last time that I saw your mom she was helping me with my senior research project. Without even letting me finish my request that she be one of my study subjects, with her sparkling eyes and willing heart she said, "Tell me what to do!" A few weeks later, she beckoned me out to your car after church so she could return to me the survey. That's just the kind of person she was. She was organized, yes, but she was first and foremost loving to people. And she loved until the very end. Second only to Jesus, she loved YOU, Dylan. She loved you so much.
There are so many things that don't make sense in life; this is one of those times for all of us. I know that it may never make sense to you, but I hope and pray that you find Jesus in the middle of this sadness - He is the only one who can rescue us, Dylan. Your mom knew that, and she is with Jesus today. I can't wait to see her again, buddy.
Love,
Sarah Sparrow
From Mary Paramore
Dylan,
One Christmas your mom knew of a work friend who was having some pretty tough money troubles. This was during difficult times for a lot of people and your Mom was struggling to pay big bills of her own. But she came by with an envelope and secretly gave this other mom some money to spend on her kids for Christmas. She never wanted anyone to know, and I kept her secret. But now I want you to know that she was the rare kind of person who gave to everyone and not just out of her surplus. She gave to others knowing that with you in her life she had more than she had ever hoped for. Her love will always be with you and you will continue to make her proud. She was once the proudest mom on earth…now she is the proudest mom in heaven, I’m sure.
Mary Paramore
One Christmas your mom knew of a work friend who was having some pretty tough money troubles. This was during difficult times for a lot of people and your Mom was struggling to pay big bills of her own. But she came by with an envelope and secretly gave this other mom some money to spend on her kids for Christmas. She never wanted anyone to know, and I kept her secret. But now I want you to know that she was the rare kind of person who gave to everyone and not just out of her surplus. She gave to others knowing that with you in her life she had more than she had ever hoped for. Her love will always be with you and you will continue to make her proud. She was once the proudest mom on earth…now she is the proudest mom in heaven, I’m sure.
Mary Paramore
From Miranda Newman
To Dylan,
Your mom was one of the first women at Integrity that caught my eye...on facebook. I kept seeing her comment or post on peoples' Facebook walls and wondering who is Tonya Watt? It wasn't long before I met your mom and all her commenting made sense. I didn't know your mom for long or very well, but I knew her enough to experience the gifts she had been given to serve and love others. Tonya was always so encouraging and humble...she was also a little sassy, which I loved! I helped you and your mother clean the Webster's house and I left that day thinking how sweet it was to see how you loved each other. I told her, "Wow, Dylan is so well-behaved, it is so sweet of him to come and help clean." She said something to the effect of, he doesn't have a choice (haha). While we cleaned that day, she kept talking about your upcoming trip to NYC, she was so excited! It was evident how much she loved you and enjoyed spending time with you. I think it is so cool how you two took so many trips together and the desire she had to discover and explore cities with you. I hope that those memories will remain with you for many many years! Although, I only knew your mother a short time, she was an inspiration to me. She embodied Christ's sacrificial and all-consuming love in her service to others. I am blessed to have met both you and your mother and I hope that I can continue to know you and become a part of your Integrity Church family.
Miranda Newman
Your mom was one of the first women at Integrity that caught my eye...on facebook. I kept seeing her comment or post on peoples' Facebook walls and wondering who is Tonya Watt? It wasn't long before I met your mom and all her commenting made sense. I didn't know your mom for long or very well, but I knew her enough to experience the gifts she had been given to serve and love others. Tonya was always so encouraging and humble...she was also a little sassy, which I loved! I helped you and your mother clean the Webster's house and I left that day thinking how sweet it was to see how you loved each other. I told her, "Wow, Dylan is so well-behaved, it is so sweet of him to come and help clean." She said something to the effect of, he doesn't have a choice (haha). While we cleaned that day, she kept talking about your upcoming trip to NYC, she was so excited! It was evident how much she loved you and enjoyed spending time with you. I think it is so cool how you two took so many trips together and the desire she had to discover and explore cities with you. I hope that those memories will remain with you for many many years! Although, I only knew your mother a short time, she was an inspiration to me. She embodied Christ's sacrificial and all-consuming love in her service to others. I am blessed to have met both you and your mother and I hope that I can continue to know you and become a part of your Integrity Church family.
Miranda Newman
From Matt Eiban
Dylan,
I don't know how to start a letter of this kind, so I will just start by saying that you had an awesome mother for 9 years! Your mom was one of the fiercest yet most compassionate women I have ever met. She lived her life with passion...passion first for her Lord and Savior, Jesus; passion secondly for the love of her life - you; passion thirdly for her church. Dylan, the Tonya that I knew gave her all in every situation. She never backed down from a challenge, she always speared an opportunity to serve head on. She always wanted to better other people's lives by giving of herself.
I had the pleasure of serving side by side with your mom as a volunteer leader at Integrity Church. I wish that I could say that I have always had as good an attitude toward serving as your mom did. There were many times when she would listen to me in my distress, in my complaints about various situations, and encourage me with her words and actions to continue serving whole heartedly. She was a friend to me, a help to me, a blessing to me. I will truly miss your mother, my friend, for the remainder of my time here on this earth.
The best thing about your mom, Dylan, is that she loved Jesus. We know beyond a shadow of a doubt that your mom is with Him right now. She is currently in the presence of the creator of the universe, she is worshipping Him, she is living fully in Him. Hold tight to this truth! She knew and wanted you to know that Jesus is Life.
I am here for you! If you ever (EVER) need anything, you can call me.
Matt Eiban (Mr. Matt)
I don't know how to start a letter of this kind, so I will just start by saying that you had an awesome mother for 9 years! Your mom was one of the fiercest yet most compassionate women I have ever met. She lived her life with passion...passion first for her Lord and Savior, Jesus; passion secondly for the love of her life - you; passion thirdly for her church. Dylan, the Tonya that I knew gave her all in every situation. She never backed down from a challenge, she always speared an opportunity to serve head on. She always wanted to better other people's lives by giving of herself.
I had the pleasure of serving side by side with your mom as a volunteer leader at Integrity Church. I wish that I could say that I have always had as good an attitude toward serving as your mom did. There were many times when she would listen to me in my distress, in my complaints about various situations, and encourage me with her words and actions to continue serving whole heartedly. She was a friend to me, a help to me, a blessing to me. I will truly miss your mother, my friend, for the remainder of my time here on this earth.
The best thing about your mom, Dylan, is that she loved Jesus. We know beyond a shadow of a doubt that your mom is with Him right now. She is currently in the presence of the creator of the universe, she is worshipping Him, she is living fully in Him. Hold tight to this truth! She knew and wanted you to know that Jesus is Life.
I am here for you! If you ever (EVER) need anything, you can call me.
Matt Eiban (Mr. Matt)
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