Home and Free At Last

Taken in July 2010 at the Singleton family reunion, this picture shows Kathy, Tracy's sister, being harassed, no doubt, by her youngest brother Cary. At that time none of us knew what was in store for her in 2011. Kathy has spent most of this year in and out of the hospital, fighting duodenal cancer. She died peacefully at home this past Saturday, surrounded by her husband, a daughter, and her mother.

Sylvia, Tracy's mother, called him Friday night her time, Saturday morning our time about 5:30. Tracy was up preparing for APC's first graduation that day, after three years of labor. She phoned to say that Kathy was in the final stages of the cancer. With all the preparations for the day ahead, Tracy was hoping to call later in the evening and speak one more time with Kathy, even if she could only hear his voice. That conversation will have to wait.


When we returned home after seven hours of graduation festivities, there was a phone message from his brother Stacy, saying that Kathy had passed away. During her last hours she was aware of her family, squeezing their hands in response to words that were spoken. Her mother, who has seen several loved ones die, said it was the most peaceful death she'd witnessed.

This is a bittersweet time~bitter because death is unnatural. We were not created to die, but to live. Bitter because we are separated from this kind and gentle woman. But sweet because she is with the Lord Jesus, having trusted in Him for salvation. Sweet because there is no more suffering for her right now~just rest. 

One day we will again be in Kathy's kitchen where she will lovingly whip up yummy creations for family and friends. One day she will tend her gardens, dazzling the neighbors with their color, symmetry, and beauty. One day we'll gather around her table, chatting about life. One day. But it is not this day. Today she rests until Christ returns. And we are glad for her sake. But we are sad.