I share with you, very briefly, the news of the death this morning of a very dear friend from my previous parish assignment, Jesus the Divine Word, in Huntingtown, MD. MONICA HEGARTY died at 3:15 A.M. today. Monica was in her late nineties. She was a genuine trooper. Her home was on the main road to the parish church. Each time I would drive by, I would toot the horn, because she was usually sitting on the porch --- when she was not on her computer or telephone talking with her children and grandchildren and great grandchildren. When I returned from an Alaskan cruise, I brought a very soft, white polar bear (stuffed, of course) for her. And where did she put it? In the porch window ... so that "when you go by and we are not on the porch, you'll still have a reason to toot your horn." The very strange thing about her death today: at 3:00 AM this morning, I awoke. The first thought that came to my mind: pray for Monica, she's going home to God. When her daughter told me that Monica's death was officially recorded as 3:15 this morning, I suddenly recalled my 3:00 AM awakening and prayer. Wow! Please remember this lady in your prayers. She was indeed a lady great kindness, wisdom, love and had a great sense of humor. And pray a kind prayer for her daughter, Maridella, who has lived with her and taken care of her for many, many years.
Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord. And may perpetual Light shine upon her. Amen.
