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| this past Memorial Day weekend |
…my nephew PJ passed away last Wednesday. suddenly and unexpectedly. He was 22 years old. Needless to say, we are all devastated. But as I look back on these last few days, my heart is uplifted by the love and support my family has shared and by all the kind and thoughtful words from so many others.
His mom (my sister-in-law Lydia) said it would be good for me to share a little more about all of this here today.
His dad (my brother Steve) wrote his obituary and a very moving post on Facebook. My brother’s words describe PJ perfectly. He embodied joy. Of course no number of words or photos could capture everything we love about him, but I do think these two boards tell exactly the right story.
For the service tomorrow, Steve and Lydia chose these six photos (in addition to the one at the top of this post) to highlight.
We have a long, hard journey ahead of us. Please keep us close in your hearts.
mere-et-filles 
Mary, I am so very sorry for your loss and my heart goes out to you, your parents, and your brother Steve. May he always be close as you share your good memories of PJ. xo
Mary, I am so sad, so sorry for your and your family's loss.
This is a beautiful tribute, thank you Mary. He is forever in our hearts.
Mary. I am so very sorry. I am sending loving thoughts your way – and wish I could be there to personally offer comfort and support. May you and your family – and especially Lydia and Steve – find peace and comfort in memories of PJ. XOXO
I am holding PJ, Steve, Lydia, you, and your whole family in my heart and thoughts, now, and in the coming days. I am so very sorry for your loss, and hope all of your loving memories can help you find comfort, strength, and peace. Sending you my heartfelt sympathy and much love.
Oh my, Mary. I am so, so sorry. I can't even imagine how difficult this is for you all.All my deepest sympathy.Janyce
I've been thinking of all of you and wondering how everyone was coping. It's a long road ahead, that's true. You won't be alone, though, and I hope that helps.
Mary, I am so sorry for your loss. My sympathy to you & your family, holding all of you in prayer.
My heart goes out to you and your family, Mary. Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers.
Adding prayers as you cope with a devastating situation.
I mad so sorry to hear of your loss. Know that people's thoughts and wishes go with you.
Holding you and your family, very tight in my heart. Blessings.
Peace and love to you and your family, Mary. I'm so very sorry for your loss.
Oh Mary, I just saw this, and am so, so sorry for you and your family. I will keep all of you in my thoughts and prayers, especially in this Thanksgiving week. I will especially be thinking of your brother, Steve, and sister in law Lydia. Blessings and grace to you all. xoxoxo
What a wonderful memorial for PJ.