THE TRAGIC STORY OF HER DEATH: On Friday, April 13, our family was summoned to the Hill County Regional Hospital in Hillsboro, Texas where my aunt had been admitted with a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer and a prognosis of 48 hours to one week to live. This devastating news was a shock to her, her husband, two children, and the family. She had been losing energy and feeling progressively worse for only two or three months. Only in the last couple of weeks had she complained of stomach problems and was diagnosed with "an infection." Finally, the doctor on-call at the hospital gave her an MRI last Friday and diagnosed the cancer. Apparently this particular cancer is a deadly one that sneaks up on you, not being detected until it has affected some other organ resulting in symptoms at which time, it is too late to cure.
I went to Houston on Friday to pick up my mother and on Saturday we went to Hillsboro, stopping by Houston's Bush International Airport to pick up my cousin, Teresa James from Los Angeles, CA. The following day, we picked up my cousin, Jamie James from Bali, Indonesia, at the Waco airport. We all sat with my uncle (my mom's brother), Jack James beside Aunt Bettie's hospital bed for three days where Bettie became increasingly unable to move her limbs or forms words making it difficult to impossible for communication with her. On Monday, she was moved home with hospice care. Then Tuesday she went to be with her Lord and savior, Jesus Christ.
The memorial service was held on Saturday, at Cornerstone Funeral Home in Hillsboro where her husband, son, daughter, other family members, lifelong friends, and many Hillsboro friends paid tribute to her and her courageous life of love and service. The Hillsboro Methodist church minister officiated. The Eulogy was presented by her son Jamie James, a professional writer and music critic. Her daughter, Teresa James Wilson, a professional singer, songwriter, and musician, sang Amazing Grace.
Mother and I stayed in Hillsboro until Sunday. Except for the overwhelming sadness of the days of our visit, we had an enjoyable visit with Jack, Jamie and Teresa. As you can imagine, it is quite a rare event to have Jamie and Teresa both at home at the same time. They plan to stay with Jack this week - Teresa leaving Tuesday or Wednesday and Jamie on Friday or Saturday. We are all asking for prayers for my uncle, Jack, as he tries to put together a new life without his wife of 60 years there in his modest little home in downtown Hillsboro. We pray he can overcome his loneliness and continue with his eBay book store - all with the help of family and friends.
We love you, Jack.
Sally, what a beautiful way to pay homage!!
Hugs, Evie xx
Posted by: Evie | April 22, 2007 at 11:34 AM
Oh Sally! It has been way too long since I have visited your blog and then to find this heart-wrenching event ... my thoughts and prayers go out to your entire family and wishes for peace for your uncle Jack.
My best - Deb
Posted by: Deb Lewis | April 25, 2007 at 09:46 AM
Just perusing your site and read this entry. My mom past from pancreatic cancer. Horrible illness. They took out her organs and held on for a year. Lots of prayers for your family.
Posted by: Ronni Fairy | May 22, 2007 at 04:13 PM