A Lovely Life, Well Remembered

We celebrated the life of Rodney Kintore Lay at UUCF yesterday. Rodney was a long-time UUCF member, but Buds and I knew him as a founding Massadoah Partner. His online obituary, though factual, gives no feel for the amazing life this fantastic man lived.

I cannot begin to do justice to his story. Buds and I are so new to the partnership, and Rodney has been in declining health for the last couple years. Christine summed it up for all the new partners at the memorial yesterday when she said, “I’m so jealous of the years the older partners had to spend time with Rodney.”

Three things I want to remember:

1) The Memorial Service was exactly what a Life Celebration should be: Glorious memories shared from a place of joy by friends and family. Stories that gave insight into the well-rounded, fascinating human this man was. Respect and awe at the life-long love affair he had with his amazing wife, Meg. They met at 12 and 14 years old, and were married over 50 years.

2) Live is a wondrous adventure, and even more glorious with you by my side. These are the words that I gifted to Buds as part of our marriage vows. Rodney and Meg lived under this premise, too, and I never want to lose it.

3) Buds and I both came away from the service wanting to live our best lives; willing to try new hobbies and interests, no matter our age. (Rodney began writing poetry after retirement, and was such an insightful, honest, clear poet.)

To live life with joy, to recognize every moment is a unique gift from the universe…these are the insights Rodney offered through others’ words yesterday.

Thank you for all the gifts you shared with the world, Rodney. I wish we had gotten to know you better and longer. We’ll hold Meg in our hearts for you.