Papa’s Eulogy

Thomas Edward Barnes

March 25, 2014

There are many different memories and accomplishments that I could share about Thomas Edward Barnes but I decided to share how Papa modeled for all of us how to be a faithful, loving Christian.

Papa showed that he was a Christian by his love. He always looked forward to trips to Clarion and Venango Counties to visit the McElhattan and Gerwick families, spending time with Mama at lunch everyday, and having a good laugh with the family, especially when he was teasing one of us. He used to leave his grandchildren notes that included all of the last names of our relatives and ancestors. I think these notes were a way of showing us that he wanted us to know where we came from and to appreciate and love each other.

Papa even poured out his love to us when he was in pain and discomfort the last two weeks of his life.

He regained his memory about things that we had not heard him mention for years. Perhaps one of the most amazing things he remembered was Willard — his cousin and lifelong best friend. He told Susan that Willard came to see him and that Willard was going to get him out of there. The next day he told my mom and I that Willard said he would see him on Saturday. Papa died on Saturday. I believe that he did everything that he could to communicate with each of us to leave us each with something. Even on his dying bed, he was concerned about each of us. Throughout his life, Papa also demonstrated love and appreciation for the beauty of God’s creations.

He enjoyed taking long walks everyday and took great care of his lawn, plants, and trees. He loved his schnauzers and even helped take care of Klaus when my parents were at work.

Most importantly, Papa modeled for us how Jesus Christ was the center of his life. Without fail, he was here at mass every Saturday night sitting about three quarters of the way back in those pews with Mama sitting above playing the organ. He also faithfully attended the Stations of the Cross every Friday night during each Lent. We all prayed that he would not forget about God throughout the course of his Alzheimer’s. And he never did. As the Alzheimer’s progressed, it became difficult and sometimes impossible for him to communicate and to remember people and things that had always been very important to him. But, when we were sitting with him quietly at the hospital one day, he began to pray the Hail Mary without anyone asking him to do so. I know that this was not only him praying to Mary for her intercession but also asking us to pray vigilantly and unceasingly.

I remember Mama telling me that Papa always prayed for those who had left the sacraments or whose faith had wavered. In Papa’s honor, I ask all of you to please consider attending a Mass or a Christian service or the Stations of the Cross on a Friday night during lent in his honor. He understood that it was not just important for him to remain close to Jesus but that Jesus thirsts for all of us. Thank you for the example that you set for all of us, Papa. Good goin’! I hope you are enjoying all of the ice cream that you want in heaven. We all love you.