Joe woke up this morning one step closer to an eternal life free from the pain of this world.
The windows are open and there is a cool fresh breeze blowing through the house. The coffee pot is full and the kids are playing outside. Maggie made a beautiful space for Joe in their sunroom on the first floor. We’ve spent the day celebrating Joe’s life. It seems that his life will be ending soon but his story is written (with smart humor and quick wit) on countless hearts and lives. He is declining rapidly but is comfortable and at peace, surrounded by people who love him like crazy.
Joe and Maggie have felt your support and prayers. Your encouragement, thoughtful words and generous gifts have sustained them through an unbelievably difficult season. I personally am thankful for their church family here in Bryson City. It is has been beautiful to watch the way they embraced my sister and her family (such a short time after they arrived in North Carolina) and walked with them through this storm.
When the time comes Maggie does not want any flowers. If you would like to make a donation, they’ve asked that it be sent to their church – The Grove (http://www.thegrovechurch.com/give). They are thankful for the firm foundation Arleigh will have within that community. Funds will be distributed between the children’s program and the group home they work with.
Right now Maggie and Arleigh feel financially secure and provided for. They do not want any sort of “go-fund-me” page set up in their name, however we do know that some of you will want to support them financially. They will have medical bills and unexpected expenses, so any gifts you feel called to give, will be appreciated.
For local friends curious about bringing meals, Maggie doesn’t currently have extra freezer space. Any meals you want to bring will need to be coordinated with her by phone (probably in the morning on the day of). This week she is trying out a meal service called plated. Gift cards for a meal service (like blue apron, plated or hello fresh) might end up being something that is helpful in the future but we do not know yet if that will be helpful.
As you can imagine there are lots of thing that are up in the air right now. The truth is, Maggie isn’t quite sure what will be helpful moving forward. The best thing you can do for her is probably what you feel called to do. Pray for her, check in with her and know that there is a long road ahead.
There will be small service for family Bristol, Virginia and memorial service will be held for family and friends at The Grove in Bryson City at a later date. Details to follow.
For those of you wanting to send cards their address is 97 Bunting Trail Whittier, NC 28789
Joe and Maggie have felt your support and prayers. Your encouragement, thoughtful words and generous gifts have sustained them through an unbelievably difficult season. I personally am thankful for their church family here in Bryson City. It is has been beautiful to watch the way they embraced my sister and her family (such a short time after they arrived in North Carolina) and walked with them through this storm.
When the time comes Maggie does not want any flowers. If you would like to make a donation, they’ve asked that it be sent to their church – The Grove (http://www.thegrovechurch.com/give). They are thankful for the firm foundation Arleigh will have within that community. Funds will be distributed between the children’s program and the group home they work with.
Right now Maggie and Arleigh feel financially secure and provided for. They do not want any sort of “go-fund-me” page set up in their name, however we do know that some of you will want to support them financially. They will have medical bills and unexpected expenses, so any gifts you feel called to give, will be appreciated.
For local friends curious about bringing meals, Maggie doesn’t currently have extra freezer space. Any meals you want to bring will need to be coordinated with her by phone (probably in the morning on the day of). This week she is trying out a meal service called plated. Gift cards for a meal service (like blue apron, plated or hello fresh) might end up being something that is helpful in the future but we do not know yet if that will be helpful.
As you can imagine there are lots of thing that are up in the air right now. The truth is, Maggie isn’t quite sure what will be helpful moving forward. The best thing you can do for her is probably what you feel called to do. Pray for her, check in with her and know that there is a long road ahead.
There will be small service for family Bristol, Virginia and memorial service will be held for family and friends at The Grove in Bryson City at a later date. Details to follow.
For those of you wanting to send cards their address is 97 Bunting Trail Whittier, NC 28789
