Clyde L. Pilkington, Sr.
January 6, 1911 – February 14, 1996
It is hard to believe that the greatest man that I ever knew has been asleep in Christ (I Thessalonians 4:14) for nearly 13 years. Today is his birthday; he would have been 98. This man was my father.
I am not sure, maybe many children see their fathers as the greatest men they have ever known. One thing is for sure, I truly miss him. He was a faithful and loving husband and father and I was very privileged to have been his son.
I shall never forget his weak and gentle voice attempting to sing and hum the hymns of yesteryear in his last days. As I looked into his eyes for the last time, I remember him looking straight back into mine. I told him that I loved him so very much and that we would miss him greatly, but that I rejoiced that we see each other again. A tear came to his eye and he took a few long, delayed, restful sighs and closed his eyes.
“For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive” (I Corinthians 15:22).
“O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our lord Jesus Christ” (I Corinthians 15:55, 57).
It has been my honor and privilege to have my mother live with me the past few years. She was his great love; and he hers. As anyone who knew them knew, they were very close. Even after 13 years she still misses him dearly. Some days are extremely hard for her; but her pain is tempered with the joy of resurrection hope. I appreciate those of you who have expressed your love to her over these years.
“Happy Birthday,” dear dad. I love you very much. Rest well. I will see you in the morning!
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