The Completion of Rebecca's Journey

Dear Ones,

This is our final Rebecca's Journey, not because Rebecca is gone, but because her journey is complete. She is with the One she has loved and served for fifty-three years, hearing Him say that she has done well. She is dancing with her mother, feeding the birds with her own hands, meeting all of those who have gone before. She has no more tears or pain or struggle.

Rebecca's home-going was peaceful, surrounded by her children and husband. Some hours before, Susannah was standing by her bed. Rebecca awoke and smiled through the oxygen mask. Susannah lifted the mask, and her mother said, “I’m not afraid!” She then went back into the coma. Her final words were to Paul, shortly before she went Home. She called for him. He went to her bed. She looked up at him and said, “I love you so very much." The family was with her when she breathed her last breath on earth and ascended to Jesus’ embrace.

The woman we loved and served, and were served by, is gone from us, but for a short time only. How dear Jesus’ plan and promise and all-encompassing love become to us when we have nowhere left to turn. Because of Him, we will be with her in the blink of an eye, worshipping our Redeemer together.

There is a beautiful poem by 17th century poet, John Donne, that Stephen requested be included in this final update:

Death be not proud, though some have called thee
Mighty and dreadful, for, thou art not so,
For, those, whom thou think'st thou dost overthrow,
Die not, poor death, nor yet canst thou kill me.
One short sleep past, we wake eternally,
And death shall be no more; death, thou shalt die.

Much love,
The Petrie Family

PS There will be a Memorial Celebration held in Columbus OH. This will be open to all. The date is not fixed, but may be March 8, 2014. Further information will be forwarded soon.