Welcome to JOYFUL REFLECTIONS. Also welcome to NOVEMBER. Hope you have an awesome and grateful month!

Sunday, April 23, 2023

Death of my Son

 


 Melvin Bertrand Wilhite III (known as Bert to the family/old friends and Tre to new friends)

July 18, 1963 --April 21, 2023

Thank You to ALL who have sent so many prayers and so much love not only to Bert--but to our entire family.  These past 3 months have been so difficult,  and let me just say how much I HATE CANCER.  God must have big plans for Bert since he took him from us WAY too quickly.

I have said this so many times,  but my other two sons,  Mark and Jeff,  couldn't have been anymore loving and helpful to Bert through this journey.  I couldn't have made it without them.  SO--a huge thank you for my sons and their families.

And I cannot write this without saying thank you to my ROCK,  George.  He has been with me constantly through this journey, and has given me more love than any one person deserves. Thank You to my Sweetheart.

These past 3 months, Bert and I have had some great talks about his life.  He has lived several places and experienced life in ways that many of us never have.  I'm sure I will be sharing more about these experiences over the next several weeks.

As a strong Christian,  I know that Bert is in a beautiful place and is totally out of pain.   He died peacefully with the family surrounding him.   He is now in heaven with his father (who died in July of 2022).

But--I will admit that I miss him TERRIBLY.   We have been texting each day (several times) with his Mama asking him how he felt... He would always text back telling me he was fine (even when he wasn't).  I almost picked up my phone this afternoon to text him.  BUT--He can't text me back now...   It HURTS so much....

I miss you Sweet Boy.  I will see you again someday in Heaven.   (Picture of my 'awesome' son was taken in 2021 on a family picnic celebrating his brother Jeff's 50th Birthday)

23 comments:

Sandee said...

More big healing hugs to you and your family. ♥

Sandi said...

Oh, Betsy. My condolences. My deepest condolences.

Jim and Sandie said...

Losing a spouse is so painful but I can't imagine the pain if losing a beloved child. Sending you hugs and healing peace in your knowledge of eternal life.

eileeninmd said...

So sorry for the loss of your son!

Ginny Hartzler said...

He is out of pain and so happy now. But it is us who suffer so much. Blessings to you, Betsy.

Mevely317 said...

Betsy, I was so hoping not to read this heartbreaking news!
Only this morning, my cousin passed from cancer -- two months since his diagnosis. Pastor Janet quoted from Proverbs 3:5 this morning, "trust ... and lean not on your own understanding." I can't wait for His big reveal!

PS - I'm looking forward to reading more about Bert's experiences when you feel like sharing. Hugs!

amelia said...

So, so sorry. No parent should have to bury a child. I don't know how one gets over this.
Jenny xoxoxo

Big Dude said...

I can only imagine the pain you are feeling and Bev & I send you our very best wishes in this sad time.

diane b said...

Condolences and hugs.

Lynda said...

You have said such beautiful words about one of your precious gifts from God! It is phenomenal that the conversations of your family increased during the last few months. I know many people who are afraid of saying the wrong thing so they avoid talking to a loved one. Then they have regrets later.
Most of us would agree that losing a child has got to be one of the worst things a person can experience in their life on Earth.

William Kendall said...

I'm so sorry.

Great-Granny Grandma said...

Oh Betsy, I'm so, so sorry.
Prayers for the Lord to hold you close and comfort you as only He can do.❤️🙏

The Furry Gnome said...

So so sorry Betsy. We know what it's like losing a child! Honour their memory.

Ruth Hiebert said...

It tugs at my heart to read this. I know your heart is almost breaking. I can relate to wanting to text Bert. My Mom died many years ago and I still sometimes feel like I should call her for advice, also, I have many pictures that i have taken in the last almost 13 years, which I thought I should show Jake. Oh the memories, they are so special.

Betsy said...

My deepest condolences dear Betsy. I'm so glad to know that Bert was my brother in Christ and I'll meet him someday. I know it doesn't make it easy for you right now though as you adjust to this new reality in your life. I'm so glad you have George to support and love you right now.
Blessings and love,
Betsy

Ann said...

I am so very sorry for your loss. Sending hugs and prayers for you to make it through this difficult time.
I can understand wanting to pick up the phone and text Bert. After my husband passed I did actually continue to send him text messages.

George said...

I'm looking forward to more of your memories about Bert. I'm just happy that I had a chance to have memories of Bert as well.

David said...

Betsy, Our deep and sincere condolences... I can't imagine losing a son, even worse to such a horrible disease. Take Care, Big Daddy Dave

janie said...

My deepest condolences.

Shug said...

so very sorry for the loss of Bert. I know how much you love your guys. Praying for your family daily...love you

Liz Hinds said...

So very sorry. No child should go before a parent.

Lowcarb team member said...

Oh Betsy, I am so sorry to read this.
Sending my deepest condolences, and saying a prayer for you and your family.
God bless.

All the best Jan

Fun60 said...

It is never right that you have to witness the death of your beloved child. Your strength and love for him shine through in your posts. Take comfort in your memories and the great love that surrounds you. Sending you prayers and love.