RIP Debra Styles

Yesterday, at 9:30 pm, a good family friend finally succumbed to her fight with cancer. She'd been struggling against it for much too long, but now she is with the Lord. She leaves behind 2 young children and a grieving family, but I'm sure she is happy now.

It was almost unbearable today in church... she and her family usually sit together in the front right rows of the church. They were empty today. We were heart broken, and all throughout the sermon, you could hear people crying, sniffling. I hope Debra knows she has touched many of our lives...

Thank you very much for teaching me to love everyone unconditionally. Thank you for all the undeserved hugs you gave me, and thank you for teaching me to hug others even if they have not done anything. Thank you for your happiness and infectious energy. Know that you have changed my life for the better, and that I can't wait to meet you in Heaven. Please say hello to my grandmother for me. Thank you for always being there during your days of health, in choir. You were always the happiest and most energetic choir member. In every way, you will be missed...

Thank you for the great memories and wonderful lessons. Ever since I heard the news, I have randomly had times when I just felt like tearing up and crying my eyes out. Forgive my selfish tears; I just wanted one more hug.

I'm sorry I couldn't say goodbye. I was sick, and I thought that would have made you worse... I now regret my decision. I'm happy to know that my mom said goodbye for me. I'm happy to know that my mom was of help to you in your final days... I'm sorry I couldn't have been there for you too.

Did you see us today from your new home as we cried in church? Or are you too busy meeting new people? Are you singing for Jesus like you sang for Him all those years in choir? Are you singing even stronger now that there's no cancer, and now that your energy has returned in full? I hope so. Life here isn't quite the same anymore...

RIP Debra Styles. You will be sorely missed.