93 years

Jack Rives Henderson

February 1, 1916-April 24, 2009

Matthew's Papa passed away last Friday. I cannot begin to express the sadness that has overcome us since we heard the news. Matthew and his Papa have always been so close, best friends really.

With the sadness though, comes great rejoicing. I would be hard pressed to think of a better man. His entire life was devoted to God and his family. He loved both with his whole heart. We know he is relaxing, in a recliner, in heaven right now trying to find some oatmeal cookies that are cooked to his liking.

We have spent the past few days, in Searcy, surrounded by family and loving on Matthew's Grandma. Papa and Grandma were married 68 years. I hope that my marriage is as God-centered and loving as theirs was.

When I say we were with family...we were with FAMILY! Papa and Grandma had 4 sons:
Dr. John Henderson, Dr. Tom Henderson, Dr. Jim Henderson and Dr. David Henderson (impressive, huh).

Those sons each has pretty big families:

Uncle John had 3 kids: Allen, Greg, and Laura. Uncle Tom had 4 kids: Joel, Ben, Mary and Dan. Matthew's dad had 4 kids: Beth, Matthew, Julia and Aaron. Uncle David had 4 kids: Hannah, Andrew, Rachel and Sam (who was unable to be there). That's 15 grandkids if you were counting.

Those grandkids have done a pretty good job of keeping the Earth populated too. Here are 19 of the 23 great-grandkids.

Here they all are...minus their incredible spouses.

The day was a celebration of Papa. So many stories were told, tears were shed, laughter was heard, songs were sung, and everyone held on a little tighter to each other than usual. Each one of the sons spoke at the funeral and it was beautiful.

We went back to lunch before heading out to the gravesite. It was a special time for everyone. It is such a blessing to be apart of the Henderson family. I am so thankful that I knew Papa and was loved by him. I am equally thankful that I am married to a man that is so much like Papa that he often gets made fun because of it. But, I can't think of a better compliment for Matthew than for someone to tell him he is like his Papa.

We love you Papa and miss you.