We Have This Hope
July 30, 2008
We got him home yesterday. We have a hospital bed set up in Mom’s living room, and he arrived via ambulance around 3 pm. He had been sedated for the trip, and he stayed very sleepy all day and though the evening. Most of you know that Sara’s an RN, so she’s our official nurse, and Mom and I are her helpers. Charley and his family got here right after Dad did, and later in the evening my cousins, Mark and Robin, and their families came by. Dad was able to “perk up” a little when he heard their voices. We all are amazed that he still has recognition. Mom said yesterday that it’s truly a gift from God, because the MRI’s show such destruction to the brain, that he shouldn’t really have any recognition now, but he does.
He responds especially to physical touch…when we lean in and hug him, he’s still able to hug back, and occasionally we’ll hear some sweet words like ” You’re so precious” or “I love you”…that’s my Daddy, always pouring out words of love and affirmation. I’ve learned so much from his life, but one thing stands out about his parenting: he continually spoke sweet words of encouragement and love. Continually. Always making us feel loved, cherished, and important. That’s a very special gift that he gave each of his kids, and actually to all of you, too. Many of you have mentioned how he made you feel special and loved. Isn’t that another great lesson for all of us to learn from his life?? To take the time to reach out to people around us and show them love…it’s an evidence of God’s work in our lives when we do that, and I’ve watched my Daddy love people like Jesus would. I’m so thankful for the way he consistently lived out God’s love to everyone around him. What a beautiful legacy.
Thank you so much for faithfully lifting our family up to the Lord. It’s so hard to let him go…and it feels so selfish to want to keep him here, yet it is so painful to say goodbye. Crazy, conflicting emotions. We are reminding each other that he’s nearing the finish line, that we have to keep our eyes on eternity, and that he’s getting ready to be in the presence of God!! What an incredibly overwhelming thought! We have this hope as an anchor for our souls…a hope that is both sure and steadfast!!
We love you all,
Charity
Dear Beverly and russell,
I cannot say one name without the other, because when I think of one I think of the other. I know
your faith in God brings you much comfort at a time like this.
I also am torn. In my heart, I know Russell has run the race as Paul and many other men of God, and has always been looking, longing, and waiting to meet his savior. I think, wouldn’t it be sweet to go to sleep and wake up in heaven. How could it get any better than that. But there is the part of my heart that still is selfish and wants him to stay. Your family has been a part of my family since the early 60’s and I want you to know that I love you all and cherish every moment that we have spent together talking, laughing, and just having fellowship. You all are in my thoughts and prayers. Give Russell a big hug and kiss for me.
Love in Christ,
Becky
Charity-
I am sorry to hear that your dad’s condition has worsened. I know that it is tough to say goodbye. Your dad is a special man and I have fond memories of conversations that we would have. I know my mom loved working for your daddy. I will be in prayer for your family in the coming days. If there is anything I can do, please let me know.
Chili
Charity,
I am so sorry to hear that things are not going well. I know how hard it is to say goodbye to your Dad, but please take great comfort in knowing that it is only for a little while. That is the only thing that gets you through it. I am praying for you and your family. I will always remember the nicknames that your Dad used to call me around the church. He is truly a wonderful man.
If there is anything that you need, please call me. Anytime day or night even if it is just to talk. I am here
Love to all,
Meloni
We continue to remember your family in our prayers. We can never think of Dr. Rice without a smile–we appreciated his pastoral heart very much during the ten years we crossed paths at Oakwood. He is a very, very special man.
It is for times like this that Christians live for the Lord even during the “good times.” You don’t have to find Him now for help and sustenance–He’s right there where He’s been for years.
God bless you all. Love, Ann for Mike, Andrew, and Mary Lee Bailes
Mrs. Rice and Family, We have been praying for Dr. Rice. We love and appreciate everything he has stood for all these years. He has been a great friend and inspiration to our entire family. Please let us know if there is anything we can do for you. We will continue to keep you and your family in our prayers. May God continue to comfort you during this time.
Love and Prayers,
Eddie & Joyce
Charity, you and your family are so much in my prayers. Cinnamon and, especially, Joe have been so touched by your father’s kindness, and for that I am so thankful. To be absent from you and your family means to be in the loving hands of our almighty Father–may this thought comfort you in these stressful times.
Love and prayers,
Gwen Ashley
What wonderful memories we have of Dr. Rice’s days at Oakwood! We are praying for your family during this difficult time.
Hello Rice Family,
I’m Sheryl’s daughter, Amber, my husband is Andrew. We just wanted you to know that you are in our prayers. We are praying as Psalm 119:28 says that He will strengthen you according to His Word & to remember Psalm 46: 1 “He is our refuge and strength , a very present help in trouble.”
Just reading your thoughts shows how much Uncle Russ is loved by all! Christ’s love has truly shown through him, what an amazing example!! We love you and will continue to pray for your family!
Love, The Olafssons
On behalf of Pastor Sammy Kay and the entire church family at Truth-Missionary Baptist Church we are praying for Dr. Rice and the family. If there is anything we can do please let us know. We love you all!
Jeremy Wakefield
Dear Mrs. Rice & Family,
It is so hard to know what to say except that we love you, and are praying for you. We know what you are going through and how hard it is, but we also know that God is right there with you bringing you the comfort you need right when you need it. Some of my most precious memories of Oakwood are of your family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
With much love,
Teresa & Sam Glenn & Mildred Stewart