uncle lee

Long before Ryan's brother, Lee, became an uncle to Mason, he was a friend and eventually a brother-in-law to me. Coming from a family of all girls, I remember feeling so blessed to have gained two amazing brothers. And Lee was an amazing brother.

But our time here together on earth has been cut short. Lee is now home with the LORD. My heart rejoices for him, but it aches for those of us that are left behind. He passed away unexpectedly last week. He went to sleep on Wednesday night and he never woke up. Ryan had plans to spend the weekend with him and when he got to his house, he found him dead. We are still processing through all of the grief and waiting for answers, but there are several things that bring me comfort. One of them is sharing stories and remembering all of our wonderful times together. I hope you don't mind if I share a few of them here.

It's a comfort knowing that Lee had a relationship with Jesus Christ. Lee loved the Lord, that was evident in everything he did. He lived life to the fullest and brought so much joy to those around him. Lee had been coming down to our house every few weeks to hang out and help us with building our addition. And of course to see Mason. Over those visits we had many interesting conversations about christianity and our faith and I am so thankful for everything that he taught me and the many ways in which he challenged and encouraged me.

Over the years we've had many family camping and four-wheeling adventures together. There's nothing like exploring new territory, trying new trails, roasting hotdogs, laughing, and just being together.

Lee was so excited to be an uncle, and we was an amazing uncle at that. He was there the day Mason was born. He was so proud. He loved Mason so much. I can still hear him walking into the room and saying "hello nephew." I can't wait until Mason is older and I can tell him all about uncle Lee. This is one of my favorite pictures. It's a few years old, but it still makes me smile.

I am feeling so many different emotions right now and I don't know exactly what else to say, except we will miss you deeply and we love you. And always will.