Today is Stephanie’s birthday. Sadly, today, December 30, 2012, will also be remembered as the day that her father, Bobby Edmunds, passed from this world. Bobby had a difficult few years after suffering from a series of strokes. On the day following Christmas, he suffered a heart attack and was transferred from rehabilitation to a hospice. Then today in the late afternoon, he passed.

Bobby was always quick to tease and his love for his daughters and his grandkids was always evident. On Christmas Day, Stephanie, the kids and I all got the chance to visit him. He was in a great mood and very happy. I think seeing him that day was a blessing. His grandkids will now always have that memory of him sitting in his chair, opening his gifts, smiling and enjoying our company.

Something I will always remember about Grandpa Bobby was his precocious response when asked how he was feeling. Instead of a typical “Good” or “I’ve had a bad day,” his response was always, “Oh…fair to middlin’.” It was his catchphrase and one that will always remind me of him. Rest in peace, Grandpa. We love you and we miss you dearly…