Uncle Jerry: The Last Time I Saw Him

Uncle Jerry with Parker at Kathy's wedding in May, 2011

Dear Imaginary Friends,

Uncle Jerry was my uncle, and someone I will never forget. He was so kind, so sweet. Growing up in New Orleans, my mother's younger brother came over to our house for every Sunday dinner, and Sunday mass was a group outing. He was there at every graduation, awards ceremony, talent show. He was there. Period. Never missed an occasion. He was like a second father to us three Miller girls.

He had the kind of head of hair that most men dream about, and a personality that was so very easy going.

It was with a very heavy heart that we went to his funeral last week in New Orleans, to say goodbye. He had just run on the treadmill four days before he passed away at 78. He was weak in bed for 3 days, then rushed to the ER, pronounced with acute leukemia, and died the day after.

It was shocking. He was the Teflon man, who had survived so many health problems, it defied belief. To see him knocked down so quickly was devastating to his entire extended family. He had survived the Korean War, cancer, and a bad heart. He also had COPD.

It was very hard to say goodbye to someone so loving. His legacy was a great example he showed to his three sons, who should follow the way he set forth: Live in love and light. And that will go on.

I miss Uncle Jerry.

Forever,

Patsie