Celebration of the Life of Richard V Tierney
Monday, January 11, 2010
Wake/ Visitation: 10:30-12:30 am at
John Tierney Funeral Home
219 West Center Street
Manchester, CT 06040 860-643-1222
Funeral Mass: 1 pm at
Church of the Assumption
29 South Adams Street
Manchester, CT 06040 860-643-2195
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to:
Assumption School
29 South Adams Street
Manchester, CT 06040
Dad is resting comfortably and spends most of his time sleeping. He is on oxygen 24/7 and has to sit up inorder to breathe easier. He isn't eating much and he has to have his liquids thickened. He has not lost his sense of humor and he LOVES his home health aide. Nancy and Richard Jr. are home.
ReplyDeleteEllie has recovered from her illness and her surgery. She has taken on a lot of Dad's care and she has just been amazing. My neices and nephews have been helping out and my niece Anna has been coordinating his care. Her gentleness and kindness are admirable. Donny set up this blog to help keep everyone informed. The amount of help and concern that everyone has shown is a testimony to the man that my Dad has been.
We have been fielding the phone calls to give Mom her rest and allow her to spend the time she needs with Dad.
Keep Mom and Dad in your thoughts and prayers. Please feel free to blog here under "anonymous" and we will read your messages to Richard.
Megan
Hi Grandpa and Grandma!
ReplyDeleteI miss you guys so much and wish I never left. I will be back Jan. 4th and will be heading directly to you guys to dance and sing for you...as always:) I can't wait to watch movies again in your room all snuggled up!! I am still laughing about when grandpa was in the hospital and he was going to get his cat scan (he litterally jumped up into the bed) looked at me and said..."well are you gonna dance?" and I said "I thought you'd never ask"...as I danced through the hospital hallways grandpa laughing as nurses walked by and said " you go girl!" taking the cane they gave him (that he uses just as an accessory not for its actually use) and I started tapping with it...just waiting to hear his famous quote "get the hook!"
I love you both and cant wait to get back!!! Love you the most!
Love,
Your FAVORITE grandchild :)
Shannon
Greetings Aunt El, Uncle Rich, Nancy, Mary, Megan, Chris, Richard & all the grandchildren!
ReplyDeleteToday, I have learned and joined the ranks of becoming a "blogger" at my age.....
I am glad that you are all together and speaking from personal experience can share that it always energized us. We "kids" are so fortunate that we grew up believing and living the strong sense or family values that our parents gave us.
Please know that you are in my heart, thoughts and prayers and if the need arises, only a phone call away. Love to all, Karen
Today was a very good day for Richard. Although he slept alot his O2 level remained high. He loved seeing and hearing his grandchildren and great grandchildren on Skype. Ellie and Ryan sang Twinkle Twinkle to Papa and he smiled the whole time and he didn't even say "Get the hook!" He even joined them in song. Talk to you soon...
ReplyDeleteMary
Today we met with Dad's Pulmonologist, and he thought it might be a good idea to get Dad into Rehab so he could get stronger and be able to be more independent. I thought this was a grand idea. Mary and I are looking at several rehab centers to help Mom make a decision. So far, we were impressed with the kindness of the people we met and we feel that Dad would be treated well.
ReplyDeleteDad feels better medically but feels "weak". He agreed to go to rehab so he can help Ellie more when he comes home.
Right now, Richard and Christine are recreating the family tree with Dad's help so they can complete the family Bible. Dad has an amazing memory for dates. He is really interested in this stuff and he is all perked up.
We'll be updating further.
Love,
Megan
Today Dad's visiting nurse came and was concerned that his O2 level was dipping down too low. So right now Dad is being admitted to St. Frances hospital in Hartford. We don't have his room number or phone number, but will post as soon as we know. --Mary
ReplyDeleteDad was admitted to the hospital with the possibility of pneumonia in his left lower lobe. He looked terrible at home but as soon as he had his ambulance ride, he was all perked up and ate like we haven't offered him a morsel since he has been home. The plan is to go to short term rehab after this hospitalization. A social worker assured Mom that he was a good candidate for rehab. Mom looked the best she has looked since Dad started all of this. She is a woman who likes a solid plan in place.
ReplyDeleteNancy has decided to stay until the 31st and Richard Jr.'s luggage has finally followed him from London...just in time to go home on Saturday.
Thank you for all your thoughts and prayers. They mean everything to Mom and Dad.
Megan
Uncle Richard, you remind me of the every ready bunny!!!! I can't blame you Aunt Elinor for needing a plan in place....and it sounds like things are on the right path. It is so good to hear from you guys on his progress. I check this site a couple time of day.
ReplyDeleteGive Uncle Richard and Aunt El a big hug and kiss for me and know that all of you are in my thoughts and prayers. Love to all, Karen
We would love photos, memories or funny stories emailed to Richard Jr @ rvtierney@gmx.net. If you want to mail them, send them to Mom at 46 Wedgewood Drive, Manchester, CT 06042. We are going to share them with dad. The photos do not need to have dad in them and can be of you and your family. As you know, Dad's love of familyand friends is very extensive. Thank you to everyone who has sent us love and support.
ReplyDeleteChris
From the southern branch of the family, we are watching and very hopeful about the positive reports. Richie's sense of humor already puts him miles ahead on the road to recovery.
ReplyDeleteJay Donoghue
I just read the latest on your blog aout Richard. Peg and I are keeping him in our daily prayers. Please tell him that I am on line and remembering the great trips we had together. Also playing bridge in Ct. Warren. Dear Ellie and Richard...(by Peg)
ReplyDeleteIsn't this blog fantastic...Everyone is in the right spirit. Whenever I talked to Richard and asked him how he felt, the response was always positive. He is one of the funniest guys I know. He was always going out to the kitchen to burn the British...(toasting English muffins)
Love to all the family Aunt Peggy and Uncle Warren
Dad sat up over 5 hours today in the hospital. He gave us all misinformation that he was being discharged today and the frantic calls began. Three hours later, we found out he was telling a tale. We are not quite sure when he is leaving, but tomorrow is a possibility. He will be going to short term rehab to improve his pulmonary (lung) function so he can be at home with Mom and not be dependent on her.
ReplyDeleteWe are having a sleep over tonight as Nancy is leaving @ the ungodly hour of 5:45 am. She has a wedding to attend tomorrow night in Kansas. Richard will be here until Saturday. Hopefully his luggage will follow him to Scotland.
More to follow....
Megan
Things sound good. Nancy, know you are in my thoughts. Mary and George are keeping o\up on this blog thing so when I call them they say oh yeah I saw that. On Saturday, we are having our Christmas together up at George's and Mary thought about bringing Jess's skype so we could talk to you guys....what do you think? Give our love to everyone and please know as Mary, George and I talk that we are thinking of you guys a lot. Love Karen
ReplyDeleteThis is a nice idea to keep all informed... with big families that is important! I know Mom and Dad (Peggy and Warren) like to keep us updated, but it is not always accurate (and peppered with Mom switching topics).
ReplyDeleteI have a great picture of Uncle Richie in paper crown that we all wore at my parents 50th wedding anniversary. And others when he and Aunt Ellie joined us in the Adirondacks one summer trip. Fun times always when Uncle Richie was around!
Thanks for the information, we will keep you in our intentions.
Suzy
Uncle Wretched,
ReplyDeleteI hope you are resting comfortably. I was just trying to remember the name of the undertaker that you greeted Great Donny with when she woke up every morning?
Billy Hickey
ReplyDeleteMore famous qoutes besides "burn the British"...(toasting English muffins) and get the hook--
ReplyDelete"Billy Hickey is waiting for you ma"
and "Go play in traffic"
Love yous guys
Good Morning,
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry I haven't checked in lately. Dad had a good day yesterday and he may be released to rehab today. We are waiting to see if the Doctor discharges him. The Nurses want him to stay but that's because he is so cute.
I was with him last night and he was having a good snooze until I was ready to go. Then he was bright eyed and ready to chat. He never complains.
I will update later on his rehab status and give you the name and address of the facility. Mom read the blog today and loved all the postings from everyone. Thanks so much for checking in.
Megan
Please e-mail photos of Grandpa to ddurig@yahoo.com
ReplyDeleteUncle Wretched,
ReplyDeleteSince my mom is starting to get like Great Donny do I have to wait till she asks to be brought to Hesketh Street before I tell her that Billy Hickey is waiting to get her each morning?
Mr. Tierney,
ReplyDeleteNuisance here just wanting to say hello to you, "Ellie" and the rest of your great Irish clan! My thoughts and prayers are with all of you and Carlo and Madge send their best too!
Tami aka nuisance aka tammy whynot McElroy
Thanks for maintaining this blog. It is a great way to keep everyone informed. Richie and Ellie are always in our thoughts and prayers.
ReplyDeleteI'm reading the comments on a regular basis to Evie. She enjoys hearing them since they are new everytime we talk.
Love,
Bess
Is there anyway to post pictures on the blog? I remember Tammy Whynot McElroy from 30+ and Karen from 40+ years ago would love to see an updated pictures if it is possible or easy to add.
ReplyDeleteWe had Richard added to our Avery Street prayer chain. (We figure having a lot of Protestants praying for his comfort is just what he needs).
ReplyDeleteWe love Richard. It was so good seeing him on Dec 17th.
I have been remiss on keeping up on the blog. Dad made it clear to his Doctor that he did not want to go to Rehab but wanted to come home. He came home on hospice Monday night all wrapped up like a babe. He was asking to get the covers off and the ambulance attendant said, "No way, your wife will kill me!"
ReplyDeleteHe stayed up and watched the UConn girls play basketball. This is one of his all time favorite things to do.
We turned the dining room into his room and my amazing sister Christine had it ready to go with everything you could think of and then some.
Nancy came home again and arrived around 12:30 Tuesday morning. Ben and Caleigh were dispatched to the airport.
Mary and I will be taking some emergency family leave to spend time with Dad and help out Ellie. She continues to be strong and supportive even though this is all new and a bit overwhelming.
Shannon has come up from NYC and Anna continues to be invaluable in the medical aspect.
We are in a routine so give Ellie a call if you'd like. I read Dad the blogs and he likes to hear from all of you. He spends a lot of time sleeping but you know sometimes he is listening because he smiles if the conversation is scandelous.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for the love and support you are giving my family during this difficult time.
Megan
Last night Dad said goodbye to all of us. The whole family then gathered around and sang Dad his favorite songs along with the "do-do-do" he is so famous for singing when he doesn't remember the words. Shannon also sang him some songs from Hairspray. He can hear us, but he's not talking right now. He's not in pain and he looks so peaceful. This morning the parish priest came over, said a Mass and gave him the Last Rites. Richard is flying back from Scotland and should be home by late tonight or tomorrow morning. This is a wonderful way to say goodbye. It's everything Dad would want.
ReplyDeleteHang in there guys and give Ellie a hug from all of us and tell Richard we expect him to keep the jokes going when he gets to heaven.
ReplyDeleteEllen & Kevin
Uncle Richard has provided us with laughter and love for many years. He is an icon and another Tierney legend. He is surrounded by you who eminent the love of family that he shared with so many of us. Give him a hug and kiss from me .... you are all in my heart and prayers..Thank you for sharing this with us. You have done such a wonderful job of honoring his wishes. Love Karen
ReplyDeleteYou are so fortunate and blessed to have this time with your father. We have all been so lucky to have Uncle Richie in our lives. We all have our own very special memories. Even my children had a special name- "Richy Rich" because he always gave them money when he saw them, so of course they thought he was filthy rich.
ReplyDeleteYou are in our prayers and thoughts. We send you love and hugs. Please give Uncle Richie a hug and a kiss from Mary Frances, jim, Sarah, Jessica, and Chris, and his two favorite dogs- Maggie Mae and Toby.
I hope no one minds me posting a note to all of you - but I wanted you to know that your entire family is in our thoughts and our prayers. Please know that if there is anything we can do, just let us know.
ReplyDelete-Rachael, Jason, Riley, and Sydney Hoops (the next door neighbors)
Aunt Ellie and Uncle Rich you are in our thoughts and prayers and we love you very much...Love Patti,George,Hannah and Steven
ReplyDeleteEverybody in the Tierney clan is in my prayers. All of you have had some impact on my life growing up. Even though we weren't blood, Richard and Ellie have always been my "Connecticut" Grandparents. It is with a saddened heart and tearfull eyes I write farewell to you Richard. I can only imagine the reunion it'll be when you get to heaven. I'm sure there will be a thunderous roar as they cheer your entrance into the kingdom of our father.
ReplyDelete"A good name is better than precious ointment; and the day of death than the day of one’s birth."
Ecclesiastes 7:1
I know of no man whose name is better and no greater pleasures than you are about to receive.
I love you all
Troy Kingston
This morning, at about 6:10 Richard passed on with Christine and Anna at his side. Anna said it was very peacefull, he was in no pain and Chris was stroking his chest when he went.
ReplyDeleteI flew in and was able to say goodbye at about 2:00 am, so all his children were able to be here.
We are so grateful for all the love and support you have given our family. Dad loved each and everyone of you.
ReplyDeleteMom is resting and surrounded by all her children.
We will let you know about arrangements once they are made.
Thank you to the extended Tierney clan for the wonderful blog. It is a blessing to have up to date information about a man we love, and a family we admire so much. Uncle Richie was the icon of the warm, humorous family member who always brought life and charm to any gathering. His quick wit is legendary. I always felt at home on Wedgewood Drive, where he would always slip his nieces and nephews an ice cream or two on the side, at any time of the day, or anywhere else Uncle Richie was (Maine, Gloucester, Boston). His love and kindness were a beacon in a sometimes troubled world, and he will be greatly missed.
ReplyDeleteMuch love, Chris Smith
Dear Auntie Elinor, Nancy, Christine, Mary, Richard, and Megan,
ReplyDeleteWith a very heavy heart I send my condolense to you all and the grandchildren.
What a wonderful man he was. I will always be grateful to him and your Mother for the love and care they gave to me.
We were truly blessed with the best Father's in world God gave to us!
Love
Joni
Aunt Elli & Family,
ReplyDeleteMy thoughts are with you during this time. While I haven't seen Uncle Richard in some time, his kindness and wit were palpable in what limited interaction we shared. I will never forget scouring his basement keepsakes man years ago, and settling on a VHS copy of Monty Pythons'/Gilliams', Jabberwocky, which he offered to watch with me. Rest in peace.
-Ryan Smith
I was sad to hear from WJ of Uncle Richie's passing and have just read all the wonderful posts. I will always have warm memories of Uncle Richie's kindness and humor from the many family visits and weddings. Sending love from our family to all the Tierney clan, Aunt Ellie and all my wonderful Tierney cousins, during this time. John Smith
ReplyDeleteI cannot find the words. My heart is breaking for all of you. Uncle Richie was one of the great ones. He took such joy from all the goings on in the family. He would take everything in and then would quietly comment...and how we all loved those comments! My thoughts and love are with you all. Love, Colleen
ReplyDeleteHow very sad that we have lost Richie, but how wonderful to have had him as long as we did. And the way he chose to depart, surrounded by his family, in his own house, cannot be improved. I will miss seeing him on those rare occasions when our paths would cross; he was always a bright light, full of joy and good humor.
ReplyDeleteJay Donoghue
I heard this morning and have thought of him most of the day. I feel very lucky to have know him. He made me laugh every time I was around. I will always remember him fondly. My thoughts are with you aunt Ellie and all my cousins.
ReplyDeleteLiam
We will miss you deeply. Please give great donny a big hug and some more cloths to fold. See you in the end.
ReplyDeleteSome of my other favorites from Grandpa are:
"Wretched", need I say more?
When the dogs barked he would yell "Kill, Kill" funny because dogs were 3lbs.
On family reunions in Maine there was short part of the Kennebec that Jay had renamed “Tierney’s Turmoil”. Grandpa, Megan, and Mom all fell in here. not sure how much pushing was involved.
If you spent too much time in the bathroom he would tell you not to clog the toilet with footballs.
His vacation choice with Grandma was to visit the abandon copper stip mines.
The Blue Buick with the broken speedometer. He did not need it, he just went a little slower than everyone else...can you say TSSS TSSS (Truck Air Brakes).
Going with him and Kerry to put up the first wall on Dennis and Mary’s house. Dennis built it, we had to help lift it up.
Spending the day at his school on our summer vacation so he could brag about the grand kids.
Using the old Gremlin as a “rubbish bin”.
Stale cereal because he insisted on pushing the box tops in instead of closing the bags.
When you get to old for gifts N.C.E. (No Check Enclosed) for your birthday card.
He lived, he made us laugh and we loved him for it all the more.
Dan
Aunt Ellie and all my cousins,
ReplyDeleteOur thoughts are with you on this sad day; Uncle Richie was a lovely man with a wonderful wit and will be sadly missed. I also remember Wedgewood Dr. as a warm and welcoming place. I always knew Uncle Richie had popsicles in the basement fridge and card games that included us kids. I remember he would always tell which cheat to watch out for, loved when he put Uncle Kenny's missing "child" picture on the milk carton. He always made me laugh.
Love, Kerry Avila
Auntie Ellie and family,
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful man Uncle Richie was.He is a part of each one of you still.He gave to all of you his wit and charm, his devotion to family, and his kind and loving heart. He will be sadly missed.We can only imagine the party he's having with Mom and Dad and all thier siblings in Heaven. You are in our thoughts and prayers. With Love,
Patti, George ,Stephen and Hannah
Here are the funeral arrangements. The wake and the funeral mass will take place on Monday, January 12th. The wake will be at The John F. Tierney (can you believe?) Funeral Home from 10:30 until 12:20. The address is:
ReplyDelete219 West Center Street
Manchester, CT 06040
860.643.1222
The funeral mass will be at The Curch of the Assumption at 1:00. The address is:
285 West Center Street
Manchester, CT 06040
Although the address is the same street as the funeral home, the entrance to the Church is on Adams Street. You take a right out of the parking lot of the funeral home and a right at the light onto Adams Street.
You can get directions on google maps. Thanks!
The obituary can be found in the Hartford Courant or the local rag (The Journal Inquirer) on Friday. I believe it will be posted on the funeral home's website at www.tierneyfuneralhome.com
We have loved reading the blogs from everyone. We always knew that we had an extraordinary Dad, but it was amazing to see that so many other people felt the same way about him.
Dad lived his life to the fullest and he died on his own terms and with dignity. He was home with his Ellie and his children and grandchildren and we are greatful that we were able to help him through this part of his journey. He was gracious to the end.
I am so fortunate that he was a part of my life. Nancy and I are getting boo boo face now so I shall go. More later....
Megan
Nancy, I am so glad that you were with your Dad when he passed. And it is such a statement about the closeness of your family that everyone was there. You are so lucky to have such a loving close knit family.
ReplyDeleteJim and I will never forget the New Years Eve we had with you and Bob and Ellie and Richard at your house. It was so much fun! You are so lucky to have such wonderful, sweet, fun loving parents. And it has been a joy getting to know your whole family thoughout the 30 years or so of knowing you. You and your family are in our thoughts. I love you!
Christie Biggs
The Funeral home does not have Uncle Richie on the web yet and Monday is the 11th Tuesday is the 12th. The date posted was not clear.
ReplyDeleteI would love to come see you all in person and am sorry to miss such a memorable occasion but I don’t travel well. I will have the west coast funeral by proxy. Since the services are early it will be easy for me to participate via remote viewing and sitting in silence feeling you all.
I will be there at the Church of the Assumption in spirit while physically viewing Lake Tahoe, balancing the east west poles for a complete planetary send off for a remarkable well loved man.
mg = Mary Grace Schurman Fuller
ReplyDeleteGrace noted the conflict in date and day, but the Curant obit, which is well done, confirms that Monday is the day:TIERNEY, Richard V. Richard V. Tierney, 88, the husband of Elinor (Donoghue) Tierney, died on Thursday (January 7, 2010) at his home, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Cambridge, MA, the son of the late Lawrence Leo and Ellen (Devine) Tierney, he had lived in Manchester for many years. Richard was a sergeant in the US Army during World War II having served in the China, Burma and India Theater. He was retired from the Manchester Board of Education. Besides his wife he is survived by his children and their spouses Nancy J. and Robert W. Durig of Overland Park, KA, Mary E. Tierney and her husband Dennis P. Jenkins of Coventry, Christine L. Tierney and her husband John E. Igneri of Rowayton, Richard V. Tierney, Jr. of Glasgow, Scotland and Megan Tierney of South Windsor. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Daniel R. Durig, Kerry D. Smith, Shannon M. Durig, Michael D. Durig, Anna T. Jenkins, Benjamin W. Jenkins, Donald P. Romaniello, Jr.,Caitlin L. Romaniello, Caleigh E. Tierney and Bridgid E. Cox and his great-grandchildren, Ryan D. Durig, Ellie Tierney Smith and Lila Jo Smith. Richard was also predeceased by his siblings John D., L. Leonard, James F., D. Raymond and Harold J. Tierney, Helen E. Dukeman and Frances M. Donahue. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday Jan. 11 at 1 at the Church of the Assumption, 21 Adams St. South, Manchester. Burial will be at the convenience of the family. Family and friends may call at the John F. Tierney Funeral Home, 219 West Center St., Manchester on Monday morning from 10:30–12:30. In lieu of flowers, Richard's family requests memorial donations be made to the Assumption School, 27 Adams St. South, Manchester, CT 06040. For on line condolences please visit www.tierneyfuneralhome.com.
ReplyDeleteMy thoughts are with all of you at this difficult time. Please let me know if there is anything you need. I have so many great memories of your dad and will never forget the first time I met him 30 years ago and he referred to Megan and I as the "Lee" sisters, Ug and Home! Then we "grocery shopped" in the basement...he certainly loved his bargains!! A wonderful man and a great father and grandfather. He has left a lasting legacy.
ReplyDeleteCarolyn Shea
My Bad!!!!!
ReplyDeleteThe funeral is the 11th. I was using Richard Jr.'s PC and shall pretend the clock was on European time. So sorry for the confusion.
Megan
My family extends our thoughts of support, and we certainly join in with the thread of warm and joyous memories of our families interactions with Richard and the Tierney family.
ReplyDeleteCraig Rancourt
To the Tierney Clan - our love and prayers are with you. We all have been blessed to have Uncle Richie in our lives over the years.
ReplyDeleteAnne Gleason
Thanks for being there across the street for us these last 50 years. We have developed a relationship that is almost unheard of. We will miss Richard tremendously. He was a part of us and we were a part of him. Thanks for letting us share some time with him on his last day on earth before his new journey began. We love all of you and you will always be part of our family. . Life and death are one journey. One cannot say words for one like Richard who is ready to depart, and all of us who did not want him to go. If death can be beautiful Richard's was. Joe and Dorothy
ReplyDeleteThanks for all the information on the wake and funeral, and the wonderful obituary and condolences. We look forward to spending some time with the extended family. We are bringing up Aunt Evie Schurman with us late Saturday night, and staying at the Hampton Inn. Hope to see some of you Sunday afternoon if possible. Chris and Angela Smith, VA.
ReplyDeleteFolks, Joan and I will are heading up tomorrow p.m. aimed at the Manchester Extended Stay something or other. Not sure when we'll arrive. Using my son's GPS, I'm sure nothing can go wrong, go wrong, go wr....
ReplyDeleteMy cell is 1-301-385-3193 should something arise.
Jay (AKA James) Donoghue
I count myself truly blessed to have known Uncle Richie. His wonderful sense of humor and quick wit were legendary. I'll most cherish my memories of being little and squealing with laughter as he told me joke after joke that I did not understand, but knew must be hilarious because everyone always laughed at his stories. I'll keep all those who loved Richie and are saddened by his passing in my prayers. Brook Schurman
ReplyDeleteMay the light of heaven shine on your grace and blessings of the day be with you all as you celebrate the life of Uncle Richie. The Kitchen Family
ReplyDeleteTo My dear friend Dr. Chris Tierney,
ReplyDeleteKnow that I am thinking of you and your family today. My deepest prayers are with you all
May God hold you in the palm of his hand.
Laura Russell
Yesterday, we celebrated the life of my Dad, Richard Tierney. For 88 years he graced our lives with his humor, his wit, his kindness, and his love. He told me he had no regrets in his life, and what greater achievement can one strive for?
ReplyDeleteThe wake had pictures of Dad everywhere and my nephew, Dan, made a Herculean effort to create a beautiful montage of pictures set to music. The end product was a masterpiece which brought laughter, tears, and joy to those who viewed it.
The Mass was filled with the sounds of Shannon, Don, and Shannon's boyfriend, Mike, singing. Kerry and Richard did the readings and Caitin and Chris read the eulogies. Dad's best friend, Joey, was the alterboy (alterman?). It was a service befitting the man.
Finally, we all met at Adam's Mill for a yummy luncheon where we swapped Richard stories. There was a positive energy in the air as we remembered Dad's life. I am still finding out new things about him still. Dad would have loved it!
I would like to thank my niece, Anna Jenkins, for her tireless efforts to manage my Dad's care in his final days on this earth. She was profressional yet kind, and he thanked her for everything she had done for him and for us. She was with Dad when he had his last breath, and she made sure he was without pain. I don't know how we would have managed without you.
I would like to thank my niece, Shannon Durig, who stayed with my Dad when he first came out of the hospital. Under Anna's guidance, she cared for Dad until Anna finished college and the siblings were able to help.
Kerry, Micheal, Don, Caitlin, and Ben were amazing too. Whether it was folding clothes, running errands, creating blogs to keep extended family informed, hugging Ellie, feeding and cleaning up after meals. They also shared their Mothers selflessly so we had the time to take care of our Dad and our Mom.
I would like to acknowlege my 2 girls, Brigid and Caleigh, for allowing me to spend as much time away from them without complaint so I could be with my Dad. Although they are 16 and 18 respectively, they got themselves to school, work, and managed my household so I could focus my attention else where. I am grateful and I love you.
My sisters and brother were invaluable in so many ways. We were so fortunate to have each other as we took care of Dad. Through laughter and tears, each one of them helped me with my pain as we transitioned Dad to his new life. Chris helped Dad as he left us and assured us he was peacful when he went. I love each and every one of you.
My brother in laws were behind the scenes doing all kinds of thankless jobs so again, we could focus on Dad. Thank you for sharing your wives so generously.
To my Mom, even in this difficult time, you were my rock. Thank you for sharing Dad with me these past few weeks. Your life together was inspirational.
To my extended family and friends, thank you all for your support, your prayers, the food, and letting me cry on your shoulder. Your presence in my life has made this difficult time easier to bear.
Finally, to my Dad, who gave me life and taught me to value family and friends, who loved me unconditionally, and taught me to face life with humor and integrity, I thank you. May you have your "just rewards as you meet your maker". I love you, Daddy.
Megan
I would like to thank everybody for comming, for supporting us and making what could have been a very grim day into a celebration of family and friends.
ReplyDeleteThank you all
Richard
Now that a day has passed since the funeral I would also like to thank all the relatives and friends for their support and love on dad's funeral day. We had a fantastic time at the restaurant reminiscing about dad and hearing about all his funny antics with each person. You have to admit he treated everyone equally with quick humour and friendly irreverence. No one was spared! After the restaurant the family gathered together to continue a traditional Irish funeral by celebrating my father's life with games, celebration, and food. Just the way he would've wanted it.
ReplyDeleteI want to gratefully thank two amazing friends, Vicki and Carolyn, for dedicating their time and selfless energy for organizing my home and making the transitions for my family to come together without worrying about planning food and by serving us during a long emotional day. We will be forever grateful.
As each of you remember little anecdotes about Richard, please feel free to send them to us. It’s wonderful to hear how he touched each of you throughout the years. Thank you for all your love and support. Mary
mg said...
ReplyDeleteSeeing some of the pictures on FB and reading these loving entries has me crying every time ~ what a great life and a fitting ending.
When I look, I see Uncle Richie young (about 35) and ecstatic. His soaring though space with out his old body. He makes it all look so easy and joy filled; it is clear to me that death is really a transition. The other side looks fun to me.
Dear Ellie and the Tierney Family!
ReplyDeleteYou have all been on our minds! Dick was an amazing person who we will always think of with fondest and love. Please know that we send our love and we hope to see you Ellie in the next month or two. Please call if we can do anything! Much Love, Dave and Gail Estabrook, Dennis, Wendy, Brooke, and Denny Martin