Grandpa Murray (Gerald Lee Murray)

My sweet baby,

This week was a tough week for your dad, and a week that I was hoping wouldn't come until after you were here. Your great grandpa Murray passed away Friday, July 3rd. While we knew he was sick, we were so hoping that he could hold on long enough to meet you. His time came though and he went to be with his Savior and his Ruby. Although it was extremely difficult for him, your dad did an excellent job speaking at the funeral. I'm so proud of him. I wanted to pass on your dad's favorite memories of his grandpa, so that you can get a small glimpse of what an amazing man he was and how important he was to your dad.

He hardly ever missed one of your dad's baseball games, high school or college, though your dad at the time might have hoped he would. It would embarrass your dad so much because your great grandpa would constantly yell at the referees no matter the call. He was a bit competitive, also very athletic. Your dad, grandpa, great uncle Tim and great grandpa all played softball together. Your dad also loved going to Oklahoma with Aunt Sarah and Aunt Na to spend summers with his grandparents. I've been told that he would always leave one sock behind to guarantee another visit, though your dad will deny this to the end. He also enjoyed going camping with his grandpa in Colorado. It's probably still one of his favorite vacations to date. This is where his grandpa taught him about getting "ill". You better not learn about this ever! His grandpa set a great example for your grandpa and Uncle Tim that trickled down to your dad. He taught them the value of hard work, the integrity of a man, the joy of being a family man and the honor of serving the Living God. We all loved him so much, and he loved you too. At your great grandma's funeral, he was patting my stomach and telling your dad to be sure and take care of us. He was so happy to find out about you, but knew that his time had come to return home. His service was lovely complete with three marines and the sound of Taps playing in the background to recognize his service to the country. I'm pretty sure you could hear the music playing because I felt you moving around. It was a beautiful service to commemorate a beautiful life.

With rain the Lord always provides a rainbow. During this sad time, we've been so happy to have your Aunt Sarah and Isaiah and Alex stay with us. Aunt Sarah keeps telling us this will be great practice for when you come along. I have a feeling you're going to wear me out, although I know I'll love every minute of it. I already love you so much. Only 12 days till I find out if you are my sweet Reagan or my sweet yet to be named boy! (Your dad and I are having a bit of a difficult time deciding on a boy's name.)