My world changed early Monday morning when my dad went home to our Heavenly Father and left a huge void in my life. His quiet strength has been an inspiration to many, and I will probably never know how many lives he impacted throughout his years of ministry. He used to tell me that you can always recognize a person by their eyes and smile. I definitely miss his!
When I was growing up as a "preacher's kid" I often accompanied my dad for hospital and nursing home calls. I was always proud to be known as his daughter, and I learned a lot about listening to and caring for people. My dad taught me about unconditional love by modeling it. I did not, however, inherit my musicality from him! On our cross country trips to California Dad liked for us all to sing....some of his favorites were "On the Dummy Line", "I Love the Mountains", "California Here I Come"...my mom's voice was beautiful, but my dad's was....a joyful noise! He was always a great "audience" as my music career unfolded.
My Dad was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease when he was 50 years old. His journey through the past 23 years with this disease and the challenges that accompanied it were met with an uncomplaining spirit and a faith that never wavered.
I am thankful that he has now been released from the bondage of that disease, that God delivered him in His time. Yet I will forever miss my daddy, his unconditional love and support for me, and inspiration of how to live with dignity, grace and hope in challenging circumstances.
In loving memory of David W. Roberts January 30, 1938 - February 7, 2011
