Aunt Alexa

This is my dad conducting the graveside services for his younger sister (54 years old), Alexa.  She died of brain cancer last week.  The viewing was Friday evening in Queen Creek, AZ and the funeral was also in Queen Creek Saturday morning.  We then drove to Thatcher for her burial.  It was a beautiful service.  My dad also gave Alexa's life story and did a wonderful job.  Christian, her youngest of 5 children is currently serving a mission in Pennsylvania.  He made a very difficult choice to stay out on his mission instead of returning home for the funeral.  He and his mom have been able to visit through Skype on the computer these past couple of months.  Christian wrote a beautiful sermon which his dad read from the pulpit at the funeral.  It was very touching.  It was wonderful to see the chapel and into the overflow filled with family members.  I loved going home to Thatcher and being home with my family as well as many members of my extended family.  I enjoyed sitting on Grandma's back porch swing and reflecting on so many happy memories.  As was mentioned about Alexa quite a few times, concerning her family and her love for her children, there is no place like home.  I love to be home and I love to be with my family.  I greatly anticipate the next life when we are all together surrounded by so much love and never again having to worry about separation through death.  I like the quote my Uncle Stan shared that went something like, we can't control the length of our lives, but we can control the depth.  Difficult times like these cause much reflection and helps me to re-prioritize those things that are most important.  I love my Aunt Alexa and will miss her.  I know she's so happy to be with her dad again and our other family members who have left this earth life.

 A beautiful table display in the foyer of the church depicting Alexa's life.

 It's so comforting to be around so much wonderful family!

 Uncle Cory, Grandma Pearl

 The Herrings

 The Langley's

 Aunt Mel & Uncle Cory

 The Bavaro's

 Madi & Abi

 I love my grandma so much!

 Kailan, me, Grandma Pearl & Jordynn

 Alexa's family

 Alexa's daughter Lindsay, her husband Matt Johnson and their beautiful children!

Alexa lived with Lindsay during this difficult time and Lindsay was absolutely amazing.  What a wonderful blessing she was to her mom.  We all think the world of you Lindsay!

 Uncle Stan, Lucas, Whitney & Lindsay

(missing in person but not in spirit, Beau & Christian)

 All of Alexa's siblings and mother

Jan, Susan, Cory, Melanie, Camalee, Grandma Pearl, Randy (dad)

Grandpa Randy and Nikki

 Too much stress for a sister - it's been a big day

 Brooke & Monica (Cory's daughter's)

This is the outside of Grandma Pearl's home in Thatcher