My Granddaddy, Ernest Richard Frazier, 88 years of age, went to be with his Lord and Savior Saturday, January 16, 2010, in Lubbock, Texas. He had a full, productive and interesting life and made those who knew him richer for the experience. He was laid to rest last week at Fort Sam Houston last Wednesday at a beautiful tribute and salute funeral followed by a memorial service at his former home church Trinity Baptist in San Antonio, Texas. As tribute to him I decided to pay my respects and honor him at this memorial service. This is the speech I recited.
“As many of you know I was Ernie’s favorite granddaughter. This was a title he gave to me long ago and one he took very seriously. Of course, technically, I was his only granddaughter. I remember one time him introducing me to someone as his “favorite granddaughter” and I said, “But Granddaddy, I’m your only granddaughter,” which he kindly and sincerely replied, “But Jennifer you are still my favorite.”
When I was a little girl my Granddaddy was my hero. Not for any particular reason, but because of all the exciting things he did with me. Like playing checkers and other games, taking me to the pool to go swimming, and making me laugh. He always had a great sense of humor.
When I was older he became more of a hero to me as I learned of all his many accomplishments in life: His heroism in WWII, his accomplishments in the work force, and his leadership in the church. I looked up to him and respected him. I also admired his intelligence, his love for the Lord, and the way he cared for my grandmother. He was and always will be one of the most honorable and trustworthy men I will ever know.
When my grandparents decided to move from the warm comforts of San Antonio to the cold country of West Texas, I knew it was going to be adjustment for them. It was a decision they didn’t enter into lightly and I knew their lives would never be the same. Little did I know that my life wouldn’t either.
Big Ern had to make a new life for himself at age 86. He learned how to live and get around a new city, he made new friends, he joined a new church, and even learned how to work a computer. He was never afraid to try new things.
The last few months of his life were some of the most challenging and rewarding moments in my life. I had the distinct honor and privilege of playing a role in his daily care. When you’re little you never imagine yourself taking care of the most basic needs for you grandfather in his old age. However, I’m most certainly sure he never envisioned his “favorite granddaughter” taking care of him in this way either. But he was so humbled and thankful for the care he received from my mom and I and told us daily. He showed amazing grace everyday.
The last memories I will have of him are the precious moments I will hold near to my heart forever. It was in those quiet moments he was still teaching me about God’s love for his people. It was in a handhold, a soft smile and his struggle to tell me he loved me that I will cherish the most.
In the grips of God’s grace he still displayed his mighty courage, his great sense of humor, and his love for his family. My heart is breaking this day, but I know he is with his King now and I feel so blessed and thankful for the love, the joy, and the life of my Granddaddy, my hero, Ernest Richard Frazier.”
