Tuesday, February 5, 2013

Heaven Has A Brand New Angel-My Brother, Charlie

A week ago today my brother
walked into the hospital ER
because he wasn't feeling well.
Today at 4:04 he left the hospital.
He didn't leave the way we hoped
nor the way we expected.
He went to a different home
than the one he left last Tuesday.

He developed a very rare cancer
that affects less than 1% of
cancer patients.  It is fast moving
and there is less than a 1% chance
of survival.

I  struggled trying to figure
out why this has happened.
Then a peaceful thought came to me.
Our little granddaughter,
Anna Bella,  who would be seven now,
needed an Uncle
to keep her company.
A great-uncle.
Great in more ways than one.

We knew this morning that his
time to be with us was to be
short-lived.
They put him on a morphine drip
and he gently drifted away
without pain.

What you don't know about
my brother is that he was a 
joker-He loved to make
people laugh.
He was the "smiliest" person
I ever knew and he
dearly loved a good joke.

You know, even in moments of 
blinding pain there are
sparks of laughter,
After we said our good-byes and 
gave him permission to go "home",
we were all sobbing.

I told him: "You are so, so loved here
and Mom & Dad
and our grandparents and 
uncles and cousins and family
are all waiting for you-waiting to
welcome you to Heaven".

My sister-in-law added...
"And Snow White".
What? I asked.
Maybe you read a different
Bible than I do cuz I don't
think Snow White is in Heaven.
Everyone in the room erupted
in laughter.
In the burst of laughter
my brother, Charlie,
took his last breath of
life on this Earth.
We knew then that he 
was free to go because
in spite of our sadness
there was one last smile for him.

I'm betting that right now,
up in Heaven,
he is setting our little Anna Bella
up to some mischief
just like  I my father used to 
set him up.

He passed so-so peacefully,
with nary a complaint.
You did good, Charlie,
very, very good.

Thank you all so much
for all your prayers.
Please pray for my sister-in-law,
Sherry.  She was the love of
his life and has lost the 
two men she loved most
to death within a year.

I came back to a room
tonight at a loss as to what
to do.  I opened my blog and
I read each and every
comment tonight.
I am overwhelmed and don't know
WHAT to say-except-
Thank You!

I will be gone from blogging
for a while but I will be back.
After all, I have a few smiles
left to give away....
but just not today.....
not today~

ps.  Snow White?  She was Charlie's cat.
your photo name

155 comments:

Nellie said...

Oh, Diana. I have tears in my eyes for you and all the family at this time of sadness. May you find strength and comfort from God during this difficult time. I send along love and hugs to you.
Nellie

sweetvintageofmine said...

My heart goes out to you and your family Diana. May GOD give you continued PEACE that passes all understanding. Sometimes we just can't help but think...why do all the good ones have to leave? GOD knows all.......Prayers~~~Roxie

Ocean Breezes and Country Sneezes said...

I am so very sorry for your loss. I will keep your brother and your family in my prayers. xo

Beth said...

Dear Diana,

My heart is aching for Sherry and for all of you. I will keep you all in my prayers.

Hugs and love,
Beth

Cheryl ~ ZanyMayd said...

I'm so sorry Diana, my heart goes out to you & your family... continued Prayers for Comfort,
Sending Love
xox
Cheryl

Sue said...

I am so very sorry Diana. May you all feel God's peace in the coming days as you laugh and cry and remember your brother.

Japolina said...

My heart is aching for you Diana. Xoxo julie

Red Rose Alley said...

My dear Diana,
What a beautiful story you wrote about your brother. I am so sorry to hear this. It sounds like he was such a wonderful man. May God be with all your family during this time of sorrow, and I want you to know that you are in my heart and I will be thinking of you often.
Love you,
~Sheri

Marsha said...

Thinking about you and your family. Glad it was a peaceful trip home.

Nancy @ The Headmistress said...

I've been thinking about you today; am so sorry for your loss, but I know that you are grateful that it was peaceful.
Take care.
Nancy

Julie Marie said...

Loving thoughts to you and your family dear friend... and many many prayers... I pray you will have some peace of mind knowing he left with your smiles and your love... love you, Julie Marie

Nonnie said...

What a beautiful tribute to your brother. I am so sad for your loss. I mourn your loss, but rejoice with you that you know your brother is safe now. Thankful that we do not grieve as those who have no hope. God give all of you peace and joy as you trust in Him. Xoxo Connie

Sarah said...

Thinking of you, dear friend, at this time of loss. Laughter ~ may it come to you again soon. Hugs ~ Sarah

aarond said...

I am so sorry to hear about your brother but I bet he is taking care of your precious Granddaughter right now. I will be thinking of your family. I am so sorry for his wife, I lost my first husband so I know how she feels.

~Lavender Dreamer~ said...

I am crying for you tonight and holding you up in prayer. Sweet hugs, my friend and God bless your precious family. Your buddy, Diane

Debbie said...

Oh Diana...I'm so glad to hear that Charlie went home so peacefully.
How wonderful that you were all there to see him off.
There's no time limit on grief...so take as much time as you need, sweetie.
I love you, dear friend.
Debbie.
xxoo

Blessed Serendipity said...

Diana,
I am so sorry that you have lost your brother. Prayers and thoughts of sympathy go out to you and your family at this difficult time. I am glad that you were able to spend the last precious moments with your brother. I will be praying also for peace and comfort for you in dealing with your grief and loss. Love you.

Danielle

Lucille said...

So very sad, Diana! I will keep you in my prayers and your sister-in-law! Take care!

Shirley said...

Diana, My heart and prayers go out to you and your family especially Sherry. It is hard when we lose a love one. Take all the time away you need we will all be here when you decide to come back to blog land. Take care of yourself. Lots of Hugs and Prayers coming your way from Your Missouri Friend.

Musings from Kim K. said...

Continued prayers. I'm so sorry but glad you were able to be with him for those final moments. Extra hugs....

Susan said...

I've cried for you today and tonight, but I know God's plan is never wrong. You and your family are in my prayers.

Kim @ Savvy Southern Style said...

So so sorry, my friend. Praying for you and your family through this time. So glad he didn't suffer.

Anonymous said...

God bless Charlie and Snow White,

Sharon @ Elizabeth & Co. said...

Oh Diana, I am so sorry! I know your heart is breaking right now and that makes me so sad. But through the tears and sadness, you found a way to smile. That is a true gift that you have. Sending much love and prayers to your family!

Connie said...

Dear Diana, my prayers are with you and your family.

Jettie said...

I chuckled at Snow White.
A truely beautiful tribute to a life cut short by that bad C word.
Prayers and love to you my dear friend.

Melissa said...

Dear Diana, I am so sorry for your loss, you and your family will continue in my prayers.

Daniela @Frugal Aint Cheap said...

peaceful passing as we prayed. We are all here on a journey. the best is yet to come. Take time to grieve your loss. Much love and praying for you.

Anonymous said...

I will be thinking about you and saying a prayer as well. I think this post is a beautiful tribute. Love and hugs to you.
melinda

Susan said...

Diana my heart is sad for you my friend. I will keep you and your entire family in my prayers. I am so glad your brother had a peaceful passing. The savior opened his arms and welcomed him home.

Dewena said...

Thank you for sharing this heartbreaking but oh so sweet story of your brother's home going. All of us feel as if we know him as a person now. We'll keep praying that you and your family will not only get through the coming weeks but draw even closer during it.

Leo said...

My thoughts are with you and your family. What a an inspirational post. Wishing you all the best. XO

Leo said...

My thoughts are with you and your family. What a an inspirational post. Wishing you all the best. XO

Debi WeeFaerie said...

I'm so sorry sweetheart... praying for you and your family, hugs

joanne said...

I'm so glad he is at peace and that his journey to heaven was a gentle one. He sounds like an amazing brother, son, father, uncle, husband, friend and tonight heaven is much better with it's newest citizen. Dancing in Heaven as you celebrate his life on Earth and mourn his loss. Blessings and prayers to you sweet Diana...

The Polka Dot Closet said...

Ah, but you gave us a laugh at the very end...Snow White! I was thinking this afternoon about Charlie and how quick he got sick and now, how quick he died. I figured when I have to go, it is the perfect way, long enough to say my goodbyes, but not suffering or lingering long enough to be a burden to the ones I love. Charlie, you done good...bless your sweet soul! Diana, it is you and the family I feel sorry for, not because of Charlie dying and going to better place, but because you will so miss him. There is some people that we lose, that we just can't believe they are gone

Carol

Susan Shull said...

OH HONEY. I am so, so sorry for you, but so, so happy for your brother. He has reached his forever home! Hugs to you and prayers for your whole family as you deal with this heartbreaking and sudden loss.

Karen said...

Praying for you all Diana. I'm so glad your brother didn't suffer.

ℳartina @ Northern Nesting said...

Diana I have tears in my eyes as I read this, your brother is home in heaven and is free from suffering. I am so sorry for your families loss. Keeping you all in my prayers. xoxo

Marissa said...

Praying for you ..thanks for sharing so,so moving ...

Cindy @ Dwellings-The Heart of Your Home said...

Praying for you all sweet friend!
XXOO,
Cindy

Katie @ Creatively Living said...

Prayers for you and your family! I know there is the sweetest reunions in heaven, and I will pray for all of your peace here on earth.

Terri said...

Diana,

I feel sad that he went so quickly but very glad that he didn't have to suffer. Cancer is a terrible disease, isn't it? Hugs to you, my friend.

Unknown said...

I'm so sorry, Diana. This has to be very hard on you and your extended family. As you mourn your brother please know you are in my heart and my prayers.

Maureen Wyatt said...

It was very brave of all his loved ones to wish for a quick and painless passing. We want to hold on as long as we can to them and that can be awfully selfish. That he went on to the next world with laughter all around him is too wonderful for words. I imagine he has your granddaughter on one knee and Snow White (the cat version) on the other right now.

Debby said...

Oh Diana, so quickly he left. He is at peace now. So glad that he didn't have to suffer. I am glad that you could be with him. This has to be so hard happening all so fast. We will continue prayers for all of you. (((((HUGS)))))

Linda @ Itsy Bits And Pieces said...

I'm so sorry for your loss, Diana. He sounds like a wonderful brother and I know you will all miss him terribly. Sending prayers for comfort... XO

Julie Harward said...

I an sure Snow White jumped right in his lap! Just before my brother passed away, I was standing at his side, by the bed...he was looking past me, and I asked him what he was looking at. He very calmly said; Oh those people sitting over there."
I think our loved ones who have passed on come to help us make that transesion...God bless you.

It's Just Dottie said...

Our God is a loving God! I am praying for you and your family.
Hugs ,Dottie

jewels in the garden +: ) said...

Diana, I am so sorry. May God bless you and hold you tight.

Mindy said...

I'm struggling over not knowing what to say and not wanting to say nothing.
I lost my dad to cancer at 14. It wasn't quite that fast, but it was less than 4 months from the diagnosis. Nasty stuff that cancer.
My step-dad lost his dad this morning. Went in to the ER five days ago.
My husband and I were talking about it tonight. I told him, to me, losing your dad when you're 50-something is pretty damn good. Of course it's just as devastating, but the years you had are plentiful. And so many memories. At 37, my memories are few and far between at this point. So in your grief, I pray for those years of memories to comfort you. I hope his wife has a big support system. I can't fathom her sorrow. May you all be comforted in God's love.
I'm so sorry for your loss, Diana.

Judy at GoldCountryCottage said...

Diana, I am so sorry. There are a lot of good people up there to keep Charlie company. My son for one. Sounds like they would/will have hit it off..Take care, Judy

Janet said...

I'm so sorry to hear this. My prayers are with you and your family. So glad you have that hope and assurance in God that you will see your brother again someday.
Blessings,
Janet

Unknown said...

What a beautiful way to pass over Diana - surrounded by love and laughter.........I can't imagine it get's better than that when our time comes.
Much love to you my friend - talk soon,
The biggest hugs I can send
Suzan
XXX

pogonip said...

I hope I can leave with a laugh someday. I know your family has a lot of healing as you come to terms with such an unexpected event. I'll be holding all of you in my thoughts now and in the future.

Anonymous said...

You asked us to pray for Charlie's peaceful passing and God answered our prayers. Prayers continue for you, Sherry and the rest of the family. With love, Mildred

Miss Kitty said...

Oh, I was so shocked to see this post! It seemed such a short time ago that he even started to feel ill. Well, if it is any comfort, I would like to pass from this life into the next like Charlie did. I know you will be a big comfort to Charlie's wife...you're the greatest!

Unknown said...

I am so sorry for your loss. Prayers for strength and healing.

Mariaelena said...

I'm so very sorry for you sad loss Diana...there are no words, but your post is so lovely and beautiful...xoxo, Mariaelena

Gail said...

Oh Diana, I'm so sorry for your loss. Praying for you and your family. Hugs, Gail

Cindy (Applestone Cottage) said...

I am so incredibly sorry Diana. I don't know what to say except that your brother sounded like one amazing guy.
I will keep you and your family in my prayers.
Big Hugs my dear,
Cindy

Maria Elena said...

Diana, I am so very sorry. No words to explain how I feel about this heartbreaking loss. Please know I will keep praying for peace and comfort for you and your family. A big and sincere hug to you, my friend. xoxo Maria

andrea@townandprairie said...

I am so so sorry for your loss, Diana. This sounds terribly painful. I am sure Snow White will see to it that Charlie is never "Grumpy." I am so glad your faith has helped to hold you together on this exit. God Bless Charlie!

Mary@mydogsmygardenandmary said...

Diana, I am so very sorry for your loss. I don't know what to say except that your dear sweet brother is with God and there is no more pain. So glad that you were with him. My prayers go out to you and his family.
Love
Mary

Ron said...

Tears in my eyes as I read this. Prayers for you, Sherry, & the family. Thinking of you through this difficult time. Even through sadness, you always know how to make us snicker... Snow White, the cat! xo

Debbiedoos said...

Oh Diana and family I am so very sorry to hear of your brothers passing. Your words and thoughts are so very touching. I will be thinking and praying for you all at this difficult time. XO

Dixie Delights said...

Praying for you, you dear woman, and all of your family. I admire the way you've written about such a tragic loss. Hugs from Atlanta. xoxo

farmhouse-story said...

hugs and prayers to you and your family, diana. beautiful tribute to your brother:)

Pam said...

OH, Diana I am so sorry. It is such an honor to be able to say a last goodbye to someone and I am so glad you got to be there for him and with him when he took his last breath. Take care of yourself.

Pam Kessler said...

PS that last comment was form me. I'm not awake yet this morning and not logged in to my account correctly.

Karen thisoldhouse2.com said...

What a beautiful passing for a happy soul - So sorry to hear of your sudden loss, Diana.. your brother surely knew he was loved. Amen.

art by wendy said...

that is so sad...I hurt for what you are going through right now. keep sweet cheeks close by cause I know she can lift anyone's spirits! I am thinking of you today Diana!

Number Fifty-Three said...

Diana, your post was written so beautifully. Hugs and prayers to you and your family. You always put a huge smile on my face with your comments on my blog and your outlook on life is so wonderful and peaceful.

Angela

Kathy @ Creative Home Expressions said...

I am so, so sorry you lost your brother, Diana. I have never heard of a cancer that moved this fast before. I am glad to hear he had a painless passing. I am sure you are all in shock at how fast this progressed, as well as grieving over his passing. I will continue to pray for you all.

Susie said...

Diana, I cried as I read your post.I know that Charlie is happier than we can be here on earth. It still seems sad when someone we love so much passes. Much love to you and your family,Susie

Kelly said...

I am so sorry for your great loss! At least you were all together when it happened and can share all of your good memories together. It's a shame that he had to get such a terrible aggressive cancer that took his life so quickly, but at least it minimized his suffering. Some people battle it for months or years and still don't win the fight! I wish you and your family the best as you all go through this transition without him. I know your faith will carry you through.

Donna said...

I'm so very sorry, Diana. Charlie sounded like a wonderful brother, and sounds like he was alot like you, always full of laughter and love. I am keeping you close in my prayers, and will be sure to pray for your sil too. I should have known there would be a little joke tucked somewhere:) Big hugs to you, my sweet friend!

Carolyn said...

I'm sorry Diana. What a beautiful testament to Charlie's life you have written here. You and your wonderful family are in my prayers.

Simply Debbie said...

Oh Diana,
all I can do is cry at the beautiful story you wrote about Charlie and snicker about Snow White. How very sad for Sherry.
If everyone that loved you in blogland gave you the hugs we have for you...you would be all squeezed up.
We want to take the pain away and we can't. I am so very thankful he did not suffer. You take all the time away from blogging that you need and treasure the memories of your brother and I am sure he is holding your beautiful granddaughter..
I love you and am so very sorry
I have to go blow my nose...lol...tmi...

Kim Gillian said...

Thinking and praying for you and your family, Diana.

Penny @ Penny's Vintage Home said...

I am so sorry....hugs, Penny

Bente said...

Oh, I`m so sorry. I got tears in my eyes when I read this.

Warm hugs from me

Diane said...

Diana, I am so very sorry for your loss. I too, lost my brother suddenly in 07 and I know your pain. Please know my friend that you are in my prayers and to let God hold you and comfort you as you grieve your loss. Also praying for Sherry and the rest of your family.

Kim @ Touch of Nostalgia said...

I am so sorry. My heart aches for you and your family. :( I also lost my only brother in 2001. He is never forgotten as I hold him in my heart with all my wonderful memories of him. Sending prayers for you and your entire family. {Hugs}

~Kim

NanaNor's said...

Dearest Diana, I somehow didn't see this yesterday but stopped and prayed right now for Sherry and the rest of your family. It is so bittersweet when we loose a loved one here but know they're with Jesus. Take time dear one and know we all love you and are praying.
Hugs, Noreen

Unknown said...

Sweet Diana....I don't blog much anymore, but when I saw your post I knew I had to come over and tell you how brave you are and how brave Charlie must have been as well. My heart hurts for you....we just never know....and we surely never understand....much love and peace during this difficult time....jana

Sandi~A Cottage Muse said...

Oh Diana, may all your happy memories comfort you and make you smile through your sadness...will be keeping you in my thoughts.
Take care,
xo

Debbie-Dabble Blog and A Debbie-Dabble Christmas said...

Dianna,
I am so very sorry for your loss. Loss is always harder when it comes so suddenly.Thank God that the did not suffer long and was kept comfortable until he passed.
I did not know about your sweet Anna Bella and I am again so sorry for that awful loss.
You and all of your family will be in my thoughts and in my prayers.
I only wish different circumstances had brought you to my neck of the woods and that we would have been able to get together.

Hugs,
Deb

Anonymous said...

(((( Oh Diana )))))

Anonymous said...

Oh Diana...

I'm truly sorry for your loss.
My thoughts and prayers will be with you and your family.
Your post was written with such a tender courage, you've touched my heart. I wish I could hug you.

Carmelina

Gina said...

Oh Diana, I am so very sorry. My heart goes out to all of you. I will keep you & your family in my thoughts & prayers.

Grammy Goodwill said...

Oh, Diana. You've written such a beautiful tribute to your brother. I am so sorry for your tremendous loss. My prayers are for you, your sister in law, and all of your family.

This N That said...

Oh Diana..what a nice tribute..I'm so very sorry for your loss..At least he went quickly and didn't even know he was sick until a week ago..That is a blessing for sure..I'm sending a hug your way...

20 North Ora said...

Oh Diana, I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your brother. My Mom had almost the same thing - it was just days. But, the one thing I am so thankful to the Lord for was the fact that she didn't have alot of suffering and pain. You see so many who suffer so long and it is so hard on everyone.

Just know that you and your family are in my prayers. May the Lord give you a peace at this time that only He can give.

So sorry.

Judy

Leslie said...

I'm am sorry for your loss Diana. Saying a prayer and sending well wishes your way.

Leslie

Anonymous said...

Diana, I'm so sorry about this sudden loss of your precious brother! You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers! I'm smiling, through tears, as I read your post- Snow White is there too! May God keep you, Sherry and your family in His loving arms through this difficult time! You are loved by many!

Sew a Fine Seam said...

Dear Diana - there are just no words worthy of saying right now. I am so thankful it was peaceful for Charlie. I am so glad you could still laugh through your tears. I am sot thankful God gave us tears and the ability to mourn and cry - it is healing. My thoughts and prayers will continue to be with you and your family. May God carry you all.

Sew a Fine Seam said...

Dear Diana - there are just no words worthy of saying right now. I am so thankful it was peaceful for Charlie. I am so glad you could still laugh through your tears. I am sot thankful God gave us tears and the ability to mourn and cry - it is healing. My thoughts and prayers will continue to be with you and your family. May God carry you all.

Cranberry Morning said...

Diana, I am so, so sorry for the loss of your dear brother. Your post was a beautiful tribute to him and to your family who ushered him from this world with love and laughter. I will be praying for you and for his wife and your entire family. Such short notice that he was going to be leaving. May God give you peace and strength in the days ahead.

Confessions of a Plate Addict said...

Oh, Diana...I am so very sorry! What a terrible loss. I am praying for you and your family. Sending hugs...Debbie

Becca Bertotti said...

I'm so very, very sorry for your loss, sweet friend. May your sweet memories comfort you during this difficult times. You're in our thoughts and prayers. xo

Deb said...

May he rest in peace, Diana.

Janice Kay Schaub said...

Tomorrow will be two years since we lost my granddaughter Alexandra, I hope they meet each other. May God's love surround you. Life is a mystery and so is death but I know this much.....God does not make mistakes and some day we will know everything. Your brother has not gone, he just moved on as we will some day too..............I may not meet you in this life but I know we will meet some day too.........God Bless and come back soon we will miss you until then.
Janice

Low Tide High Style said...

Sending comfort your way in your hour of need Di, and to your brother's entire family, especially his wife.

xo Kat

Romeo said...

Oh geez, you have me crying. And that's not so easy to do. Sending you and your family hugs for all you've been through and all you've yet to go through. May you find comfort in the memories.

Hugs,

Deborah

Debbie~ said...

Diana, I am sorry for the heartbreak you, and your family are going through. Hearing how Charlie had his loving family by his side, filling his heart with love, is truly beautiful. I can only guess how at peace he was. Your faith, along with the wonderful memories of a lifetime that a brother, and sister have shared, will help you get through this difficult time. With love, Debbie @ Cottage Hann~Me~Downs

One More Time Events said...

Diana, I am sorry for your lose I hope and I will be praying for u and your family. May you and your family find comfort in The Lord now is the time to lean more on him. And I am sure he will be there to hold you and get you through these hard times xo Tammy

Liz@ HomeandGardeningWithLiz said...

Oh Diana I am so sorry, my heart goes out to you and all your family. What a blessing that you got to be with him at the end. My deepest sympathy to all of you and especially to his wife. Liz

Anonymous said...

My heartfelt sympathy to you and your family, Diana. Although this is a very sad post, I actually also found it incredibly uplifting, because your brother was laughing right to the end. I think we could all learn a valuable lesson from this.

Mark said...

I'm just so sorry. For some reason, I thought that I would look you up to see how you were doing and I see this. Having lost my Sister, I know what you're feeling.
Please know that I'll keep you and your Family in my thoughts all day long.
And if you need a Brother, looking for a Sister, here I am.
Your Friend, m.

Leena Milligan Lanteigne said...

Diana, I am so, so sorry about Charlie's passing! I know that he is in a better place now, one with happiness and no pain, however it is still hard to let go. I didn't know that you had a granddaughter who had passed as well. I truly believe that our family members do wait at the gates to welcome those who have just passed. And yes, even Snow White is in the welcoming committee! I pray that the wonderful, happy memories of Charlier will help ease the pain in your heart. Blessings to you and your family. Hugs, Leena

Anonymous said...

I am so sorry for your loss. I think this is my first time to you blog, but was led here by one of your blog friends. Peace be with you. ~ Laura

RURAL said...

Diana, I am so very sorry for you loss...

There must be a huge hole in your heart. My deepest sympathies, to you and your family.

Jen

Celestina Marie said...

Dear Diana, I am so sorry to read of your loss. My prayers will remain with you and your dear family for the days ahead. Your brother sounds like such an amazing guy and I know was a blessing to all. You are so much like your brother and I know you will carry on with the same love and laughter that makes you so special to everyone.
May God heal your sad heart and give comfort that only HE can give.

You are loved my friend and give yourself the time you need for peace.

Love you, Celestina Marie

Ann@A Sentimental Life said...

I at a loss for words for you. I am so sorry for the loss of your brother. I know it makes me cherish mine more.
Thinking of you dear friend and sending, loves and hugs. Ann

Savannah Granny said...

Diana, What a beautiful recitation of what had to be a difficult time. I can just see Snow White rubbing against Charlie's legs and making circle eights through them. I know before they got into mischief little Anna Bella took Charlie by the hand and gave him the grand tour.
Love to you and praying for your family, Ginger

Gypsy Heart said...

I am so, so sorry! When we lose our loved ones, it leaves such a void in our lives. At least he's got everyone in Heaven smiling and yes, he's there with Anna Bella and Snow White. If there's any comfort, it's that he didn't suffer a long time or have to go through a ton of treatments, etc. He left this plane peacefully and without pain and that's a HUGE blessing. I wonder what God has in store for him?

Much love my friend. I will hold all of you in prayer for strength and peace.

xo
Pat

Lynx said...

I'm so sorry for your loss. Your tribute to your brother was very touching, and I thank you for sharing his life and passing with us. God bless you all.

Little Miss Maggie said...

Dear sweet, Diana, I am just catching up with posts and I am so sorry to hear of your tragic loss. I hope you can find some cofort somewhere somehow. It must be so difficult to experience this kind of loss in so short a time. May God be with you and your family and especially Sherry at this difficult time. God bless you all.

Sue said...

No words can express the sorrow I feel for you with such an unexpected turn of events. A prayer and our thoughts go out to you and your whole family ...God Bless Charlie.

The Tuscan Home said...

Oh sweet friend, I am so sorry for your loss. Your post was so sweet, and touching. Sending you BIG ((HUGS)) and I will keep your entire family in my thoughts and prayers. I'm happy to hear that your brother didn't suffer, praise God.

Love, Hugs, and prayers...Liz

Ricki Treleaven said...

I am so, so sorry for your loss. What a blessings to be called home laughing with your family! Wow, what a powerful witness.

I will continue to pray for you and your sweet family. You've been on my heart this morning.

(((((hugs))))),
Ricki Jill

Susan Nowell @ My Place to Yours said...

Diana, I haven't been by to visit in over a week and didn't know about your brother until now. My heart breaks for your family tonight. How thankful I am that he did not suffer long and that you were able to be with him as he passed into eternity. I look forward to meeting him someday; he sounds like a wonderful man. I know he has a wonderful sister! Bless you, Diana. Know that I am now holding you close in prayer.

Ann from On Sutton Place said...

So, so sorry Diana. For your SIL and for you. It sounds like he was a wonderful guy. Take your time and do what you need to do. We'll all be here when you are ready to come back. Wish I could think of something to say to make you feel better...the truth is there's really nothing. Except I will be thinking of you and praying. Take care...Ann

GratefulPrayerThankfulHeart said...

Now his laughter is free from pain. Blessings to you and your sister in law.

koralee said...

Sending you all my love...take care my friend you all will continue to be in my prayers .xoxoxo

Thistle Cove Farm said...

I am so sorry for you and your family but so happy for Charlie. He's joined that great cloud of witnesses, never to know pain, suffering or sorrow.

Rebekah said...

So many prayers for you and your family, Diana!
"Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh."
Luke 6:21
I think in those last moments with Charlie, God used you to remind us all of the truth of this verse.
Lots of love! Rebekah

Karen said...

Thinking of you and remembering you and your family in prayer. May God comfort you as only He can do.

Ruth Kelly said...

No one is ever prepared when losing someone you love. I feel for you and your loss. May God bless you and your family during your grieving.

Ivy and Elephants said...

I am so sorry to hear of your brother's passing. He sounds like a wonderful person who touched all that he meet. I know he is bringing big smiles to heaven. Blessings and prayers for you and your family.
Hugs,
Patti

ShabbyESP said...

I am so very sorry to hear of your loss, please know I am thinking of you and your family at this difficult time.
Many (((((hugs)))) and prayers for you.
Suzann ~xoxo~

Jan said...

Diana, I've been sitting here at my keyboard with streaming tears. I know too well that heartbreak of mourning, but for all my experience, have no words of comfort...but God knows my concerns,he knows your needs and will comfort you and your family.

God bless you and your family.

Jan

Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Matthew

momto8 said...

May God bless all of you. I am sorry . Sending prayers your way...

My Grama's Soul said...

Good by Charlie......he sounded so wonderful....I'm so very sorry for this unexpected loss.

hugs from me to you,

Jo

Pondside said...

It sounds like your dear brother had a good send-off. May he rest in peace and may eternal light shine upon him.

Unknown said...

I sure do miss you. I think of you (at least) everytime I publish a new post and I imagine what you would say.

I am so sorry for you loss and I will PRAY for your sister-in-law.

Much Love,
Amanda

Heaven's Walk said...

Oh sweet Diana...I am so very very sorry to hear of Charlie's passing. I am so very glad, though, that you are all so firm in your belief that he is in Heaven sitting at our Lord's feet and hugging darling Anna Bella. Please know that I will be keeping you and your entire family in my prayers, sweetie ~ and sending you a loving hug tonight. ♥

xoxo laurie

Tammy said...

I am so sorry to hear about your brother's passing so suddenly. Prayers and blessings to you all, Tammy

Daniella said...

You are so loved my friend. Your blog shows it. And you bring everyone such happiness every time we visit. You gave that to your brother at the end too.
God Bless my friend,
xxDaniella

Diana LaMarre said...

My deepest sympathy, Diana. I am so sorry for your families loss.

Acanthus and Acorn said...

Oh Diana,
Please accept my deepest sympathy of the unexpected loss of your beloved brother. Sending you a huge hug.
xo,
~R

Patty Patterson said...

I somehow missed this post. I have no clue how as I have been thinking about you and watching for updates.
And I am so, so sorry for your loss. Charlie sounds like a wonderful man. He's probably having the time of his life reuniting with his parents and grandparents in heaven and meeting little Anna Bella. But even though you know his is in a wonderful place, it's still hard to know he's gone from this world. My heart goes out to you.

Wendy@Once upon a rose haven said...

Hi Diana,
I'm so very sorry for your loss! I want you to know that you are in my prayers!
Blessings,
~Wendy

camp and cottage living said...

Diana
I am so sorry to hear of your brothers unexpected passing.
I will be praying for all of you who loved him so much.
Laughter must have been big in your family. He sounds like he enjoyed fun and joking as much as you!
Sending ((((hugs))) your way.
Kimberly

GARAGE SALE GAL said...

This post had me crying...by BFF is also a "newbie" in Heaven! Just think of all our loved ones in such a wonderful place!!!
I'm so very sorry that your beloved brother has passed away. I'll pray for healing hearts for all!
Warmly,
deb

Pura Vida said...

What an incredible thing to read on this perfect day to define real love

bj said...

O, dear one. I missed this post. I am so out of touch with my bloggy friends. So busy packing, culling, painting at 2 houses...leaves little time for blogging.
I am so very sorry for your loss. I know how much a sister can love a brother...I have one, too.
I am thinking of you....
Love, bj

Anna Hanley said...

Dear Friend, I am so sorry. I will keep you in my prayers. Anna

Shabby Brocante, Karen said...

Diana, I am so sorry for your loss. I am so glad you were able to be there and that he was surrounded by those that loved him. You make me cry and you make me laugh...saving Snow White for the end. ;) Sending prayers and love to Sherry.
Karen

kelli said...

This is a beautiful tribute to your brother. I'm very sorry for your loss. Sending you lots of love. Xoxoxo

Jane, Naples, Florida said...

Oh Diana, the post brought tears to my eyes. Thank God for Snow White for bringing a smile at that time. Blessings to your family.

Jane
Flora Doora

jessica said...

Gosh Diana, I am so sorry for your loss- and even sorrier I took such a long time to catch up on your blog. I've spent almost an hour reading through your posts. You've made me laugh so hard and then cry! I love your writing. Your grand babies are so adorable- and what great memories you've created with them!
God bless you :)

FABBY'S LIVING said...

I'm so sorry for not knowing then about your dear brother's passing my friend. I probably wasn't around my computer at that time. Your post is such a beautiful tribute to your dear brother, as you have the writer gene my friend. You are very talented and I know he would have loved it too.
Wow, he sure had a rare form of cancer, my goodness, one never knows I always say.
Big hugs to you,
Fabby

Creations By Cindy said...

I had to pop over sweet lady and read the story of your brother. That is so very frightening for something so rare and quickly to take one's life. Oh how I know your hearts was hurting and still does. But the precious memories.........I praise God for humor, for laughter during these trying times. SNOW WHITE? Loved it. Hugs and blessings, Cindy