11/11/11 Remember those that served without serving

[tb_bucc]

Today I lost the love of my life, a beautiful and loving woman, Elizabeth Sue Courtney Barnes. We were married just twelve days shy of thirty-four years ago, November 19, 1977. Not long enough.

She gave me two beautiful and loving children; the first on January 2, 1979 Daniel Thayer Barnes Jr., her idea.  Two years to the day later on January 2, 1981 Michelle Lynn Barnes was delivered into our life. When asked how that happened? My response was always the same, just a shot in the dark.

In addition to our kids, February 26th 2009, Mathew Chase Bradley was given to us. Even though he had many problems at birth he pulled through. He is a Paw-Paw's boy, but loves his Me-Me. Her memory will live way beyond my years.

Through my absences, a year in Iceland and 120 days in Saudi Arabia, just after the Gulf war, she was there to keep a  family together. While I served my country, many miles from home, she kept my little ones safe to allow me to keep the mission in sight.

This wonderful woman followed me around this great country and overseas when our country needed us somewhere else. She left our family and then left many friends with each move, never complaining, at least not so I could hear, she always supported me.

The Lord called her home today, way too early. My prayers were answered, to take her pain away. No, not the way I wanted, but the way the Lord wanted. I must accept it, as hard as it is.

Thank you for reading this. Come November 11th remember those that did not serve in an official complicity, but allowed others to serve without worry for their family.

In honor for a great woman, Elizabeth S. Barnes.

Elizabeth Sue I Love You!

[murrman]

Sorry for your loss. It's devastating when someone so close leaves this world too soon. You'll both be in my prayers.

[Wedge Rock]

tb, my condolences on your loss.

Thank you for your service, and thank you Elizabeth for allowing tb to serve.

RIP, Elizabeth. 

[Detroitdad]

prayers for you and your family sir............wow..................I still have goosebumps...........

[austin5string]

So sorry to hear of your loss..

A beautifully written tribute - the love you have for her is very evident.

Prayers to you and your family..

~A5S

[sharkyspoker]

My condolences TB, As a veteran, husband, and now spouse to an active duty service member I can feel the love you had for your wife and I thank both of you for the work and sacrifices you have given.

Sharky

[Squiggly]

My thoughts are with you and your family TB.

[Milo]

You have my deepest sympathies and condolences . . .

It is all too easy to remember "those who served" tomorrow.  Your poignant tribute to your dearly departed love is a reminder that we should all spare a moment for those who served on the home front, as well.  That you should give us this reminder so soon after your loss speaks not only to your character, but to the depth of love you shared.

May God's loving arms surround your wife's soul, and may His eternal love comfort you in your mourning.