Relationships Endure Beyond Death

Darrel Brown and Fran Hatch, 11 September 1954.

Darrel passed four years ago, just days before his 85th birthday, after years of gusto, joy, love, and service, and after 63 years with Fran. He was a perfect father-in-law. I loved and respected him.

Darrel was bright and conversant almost until the end. Fran said repeatedly in his final weeks, “Oh, Darrel, what am I going to do without you?” Then, one day, as if moved by an unseen comforter, she sat at his bedside, took his hand, and whispered, “Darrel, it’s okay. I’ll be fine. You can go.”

Darrel passed quietly just hours later, with his wife and daughters at his side. I think he was waiting until Fran was ready.

Six months ago, after being separated from Darrel for three-and-a-half years, Fran passed quietly. She was a perfect mother-in-law and I loved her. I was privileged to be at her bedside with her daughters when she took her last breath. Among her last words were, “I just want to be with Darrel.”

Darrel was there. I experienced his presence. He’d come to take his sweetheart home.

Relationships endure beyond this life. I know it.