Johnnie: To Know Rita was to Love her !!
***********
Death takes the Body.
God takes the Soul.
Our mind holds the Memories.
Our Heart keeps the Love whole.
***********
We little knew that day that God was going to call your name;
In life we loved you dearly, in death we do the same;
It broke our hearts to lose you, you did not go alone.
For part of us went with you, the day God called you home;
You left us peaceful memories, your love is still our guide;
And though we cannot see you, you are always at our side;
Our family chain is broken and nothing seems the same;
But as God calls us one by one, the chain is linked again.
The Unbroken Chain-Author Unknown
***********
Johnnie Richardson:
To me, Rita was as Beautiful as Farrah Fawcett, Movie Actress, who passed away June 25,2009
**********************************
Rita's unique and beautiful spirit will always remain with all of us who were fortunate to have known her.
************************************************
GOD'S BEAUTIFUL GARDEN
God looked around His Garden and found an empty place. He then looked down upon the earth and saw your beautiful tired face. He knew that you were suffering. He knew that you were in pain. He knew that you would never get well on earth again. He saw the road getting rough and the hills were hard to climb. So He closed your weary eyelids and whispered 'peace is thine.' He put His arms around you and He lifted you to rest. God's Beautiful Garden must be Beautiful, He only takes the Best. If tears could build a stairway, and heartaches could make a lane, we'd walk a path to Heaven and bring you home again.
***********************************************
RITA CAROLYN BENGTSON ZALENSKI
Rita Carolyn Bengtson Zalenski of Killeen, was called home Thursday, November 23, 2006. An Angel whispered to this Beautiful Lady and said take my hand and come with me, your work here is done. She went away to a place where there's no tears, nor sorrow or pain, only laughter and smiles and there will always be a tomorrow. As the Angel held her hand she whispered once again and said do not be afraid my child you are not alone, all who went before you are there awaiting for your return. Rita hesitated for a moment until she heard our words, "It's alright Mom, we will be ok." As we wept and held her hands, a tear fell from her eye and she passed quietly. She was surrounded by her loving husband and family. Rita was reunited with her parents, Roy Harold Bengtson and Grace Louise Tollison Bengtson; and those that she loved from many years before. It was a great celebration on that special day, when our Heavenly Father called her back home to thee.
Rita was born 24 July 1952. She moved to Killeen during her childhood years. She attended Killeen High School and married soon after that . Rita is survived by her husband, Walter Zalenski and her two children, Jennifer and Stephen. She had a heart of gold and was always there to help her family when in need. Rita loved unconditionally and whole-heartily. She will be truly missed by all who knew and loved her. "Until we meet again Mom, we love you."
************************************************
"If Tomorrow Starts Without Me"
If tomorrow starts without me, and I'm not here to see, If the sun should rise you find your eyes all filled with tears for me; I wish so much you wouldn't cry the way you did today, While thinking of the many things we didn't get to say. I know how much you love me, as much as I love you And each time that you think of me, I know you'll miss me too. But when tomorrow starts without me please try to understand, That an angel came and called my name and took me by the hand. He said my place was ready, in heaven far above And that I'd have to leave behind all those I dearly love. But as I turned and walked away a tear fell from my eye. For all my life I'd always thought, I didn't want to die. I had so much to live for, so much left yet to do. It seemed almost impossible that I was leaving you. I thought of all the yesterdays the good ones and the bad. I thought of all the love we shared, and all the fun we had. If I could relive yesterday, just even for a while, I'd say goodbye and kiss you and maybe see you smile. But then I fully realized that this could never be, For emptiness and memories would take the place of me. When I thought of worldly things I might miss come tomorrow I thought of you and when I did my heart was filled with sorrow. When I walked through heavens gates I felt so much at home. God looked down and smiled at me from his great golden throne He said, "This is eternity and all I've promised you" Today your life on earth has passed but here life starts anew. I promise no tomorrow, but today will always last And since each day is the same there's no longing for the past. You have been so faithful so trusting and so true. Though there were times you did some things you knew you shouldn't do. You have been forgiven and now at last you're free. So won't you come and take my hand and share my life with me? So when tomorrow starts with out me don't think we're far apart, For every time you think of me, I'm right here in your heart.
Author: David Romano
************************************
"UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN"
A smile so bright it can light up any dark place
A soul so beautiful accompanied by a matching face
A laugh so contagious I miss it every day
A love so strong it will never fade
The world was better with you in it
My heart was full but now it isn't
I cherish the moments we have had
From birth you were my biggest fan
Support, prayer, or just lending an ear
You listened to me and helped me face every fear
No matter what was going on you were always here
This part of my life will never seem fair
I've never done anything without you
And now I never will have too
you're My Guardian Angel and I know that's true
I thank you mommy for raising me to be just like you!
As times pass your family will continue to grow
We all love you more than you could ever know
The years will pass but the memories will remain
Hopefully we can eventually heal from this pain
A Wife, a Mother, a Daughter, a Grandmother, a Sister, a Aunt & Cousin
But most importantly an Angel and my very Best Friend
I can't say goodbye only until we meet again
Love your Daughter,
Jennifer Bengtson Fryman
************
To My Mom from Jennifer
If Roses grow in Heaven, Lord,
please pick a bunch for me,
Place them in my Mother's arms
and tell her they're from me.
Tell her, I love her and I miss her,
and when she turns to smile,
place a kiss upon her cheek
and hold her for awhile.
Remembering her is easy,
I do it every day,
but there's an ache within my heart
that will never go away.
Added by Uncle Johnnie
************************************
I'M FREE !
Don't grieve for me for now I'm free. I'm following the path God has laid you see. I took His hand when I heard His call. I turned my back and left it all. I could not stay another day to laugh, to love, to work, or play. Tasks left undone must stay that way. I found peace at the close of day. If my parting has left a void then fill it with remembered joys. A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss. O yes, these things too, I will miss. Be not burdened with times of sorrow. I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow. My life's been full I savored much, good friends, good times, a loved one's touch. Perhaps my time seemed all too brief. Don't lengthen it now with undue grief. Lift up your hearts and peace to thee . . God wanted me now. He set me free.
************************************
MOTHERHOOD
The most important person on earth is a mother. She cannot claim the honor of having built Notre Dame Cathedral. She need not. She has built something more magnificent than any cathedral - a dwelling for the immortal soul, the tiny perfection of her baby's body.
The angels have not been blessed with such a grace. they cannot share in God's creative miracles to bring new saints to Heaven. Mothers are closer to God, the Creator, than any other creature. God joins forces with mothers in performing this act of creation. What in God's good world is more glorious than this: to be a mother.
************************************
"God made a wonderful Mother,
A Mother who never grew old,
He gave her a smile of sunshine,
And molded a heart into gold.
He made her so like an angel,
As anyone ever could be.
God made a wonderful Mother,
Then gave that Mother to me.
Eternal rest give unto her, O, Lord,
And let perpetual light shine upon her.
May she rest in peace..."
*************************************
"My Mother kept a garden,
a garden of the heart.
She planted all the good things,
that gave my life it's start.
She turned me to the sunshine and
encouraged me to dream;
fostering and nurturing, the seeds of self-esteem.
And when the winds and rains came,
she protected me enough-but not too much.
She knew I'd need to stand up strong and tough.
Her constant good Christian example
Always taught me right from wrong;
Markers for my pathway
that will last a lifetime long.
I am my Mother's garden
I am her legacy.
And I hope today she feels the love
reflected back from me."
The above written for Jennifer,(Her Daughter)
A Tribute to Rita from Johnnie
From all of my memories, Rita was a very Loving, Caring, and Thoughtful person.
Rest in Peace,Rita,You are Loved very much by Jennifer and Myself and Missed by all, Love You, Johnnie.
************************************
************************************
DEATH IS NOTHING AT ALL
- by Canon Henry Scott -Holland -Canon of St Paul's Cathedral, "The King of Terrors", a sermon on death delivered in St Paul's Cathedral on Whitsunday 1910, while the body of King Edward VII was lying in state at Westminster: published in Facts of the Faith, 1919.
Death is nothing at all
I have only slipped away into the next room
I am I and you are you
Whatever we were to each other
That we are still
Call me by my old familiar name
Speak to me in the easy way you always used
Put no difference into your tone
Wear no forced air of solemnity or sorrow
Laugh as we always laughed
At the little jokes we always enjoyed together
Play, smile, think of me, pray for me
Let my name be ever the household word that it always was
Let it be spoken without effort
Without the ghost of a shadow in it
Life means all that it ever meant
It is the same as it ever was
There is absolute unbroken continuity
What is death but a negligible accident?
Why should I be out of mind
Because I am out of sight?
I am waiting for you for an interval
Somewhere very near
Just around the corner
All is well.
Nothing is past; nothing is lost
One brief moment and all will be as it was before
How we shall laugh at the trouble of parting when we meet again!
***********
Death takes the Body.
God takes the Soul.
Our mind holds the Memories.
Our Heart keeps the Love whole.
***********
We little knew that day that God was going to call your name;
In life we loved you dearly, in death we do the same;
It broke our hearts to lose you, you did not go alone.
For part of us went with you, the day God called you home;
You left us peaceful memories, your love is still our guide;
And though we cannot see you, you are always at our side;
Our family chain is broken and nothing seems the same;
But as God calls us one by one, the chain is linked again.
The Unbroken Chain-Author Unknown
***********
Johnnie Richardson:
To me, Rita was as Beautiful as Farrah Fawcett, Movie Actress, who passed away June 25,2009
**********************************
Rita's unique and beautiful spirit will always remain with all of us who were fortunate to have known her.
************************************************
GOD'S BEAUTIFUL GARDEN
God looked around His Garden and found an empty place. He then looked down upon the earth and saw your beautiful tired face. He knew that you were suffering. He knew that you were in pain. He knew that you would never get well on earth again. He saw the road getting rough and the hills were hard to climb. So He closed your weary eyelids and whispered 'peace is thine.' He put His arms around you and He lifted you to rest. God's Beautiful Garden must be Beautiful, He only takes the Best. If tears could build a stairway, and heartaches could make a lane, we'd walk a path to Heaven and bring you home again.
***********************************************
RITA CAROLYN BENGTSON ZALENSKI
Rita Carolyn Bengtson Zalenski of Killeen, was called home Thursday, November 23, 2006. An Angel whispered to this Beautiful Lady and said take my hand and come with me, your work here is done. She went away to a place where there's no tears, nor sorrow or pain, only laughter and smiles and there will always be a tomorrow. As the Angel held her hand she whispered once again and said do not be afraid my child you are not alone, all who went before you are there awaiting for your return. Rita hesitated for a moment until she heard our words, "It's alright Mom, we will be ok." As we wept and held her hands, a tear fell from her eye and she passed quietly. She was surrounded by her loving husband and family. Rita was reunited with her parents, Roy Harold Bengtson and Grace Louise Tollison Bengtson; and those that she loved from many years before. It was a great celebration on that special day, when our Heavenly Father called her back home to thee.
Rita was born 24 July 1952. She moved to Killeen during her childhood years. She attended Killeen High School and married soon after that . Rita is survived by her husband, Walter Zalenski and her two children, Jennifer and Stephen. She had a heart of gold and was always there to help her family when in need. Rita loved unconditionally and whole-heartily. She will be truly missed by all who knew and loved her. "Until we meet again Mom, we love you."
************************************************
"If Tomorrow Starts Without Me"
If tomorrow starts without me, and I'm not here to see, If the sun should rise you find your eyes all filled with tears for me; I wish so much you wouldn't cry the way you did today, While thinking of the many things we didn't get to say. I know how much you love me, as much as I love you And each time that you think of me, I know you'll miss me too. But when tomorrow starts without me please try to understand, That an angel came and called my name and took me by the hand. He said my place was ready, in heaven far above And that I'd have to leave behind all those I dearly love. But as I turned and walked away a tear fell from my eye. For all my life I'd always thought, I didn't want to die. I had so much to live for, so much left yet to do. It seemed almost impossible that I was leaving you. I thought of all the yesterdays the good ones and the bad. I thought of all the love we shared, and all the fun we had. If I could relive yesterday, just even for a while, I'd say goodbye and kiss you and maybe see you smile. But then I fully realized that this could never be, For emptiness and memories would take the place of me. When I thought of worldly things I might miss come tomorrow I thought of you and when I did my heart was filled with sorrow. When I walked through heavens gates I felt so much at home. God looked down and smiled at me from his great golden throne He said, "This is eternity and all I've promised you" Today your life on earth has passed but here life starts anew. I promise no tomorrow, but today will always last And since each day is the same there's no longing for the past. You have been so faithful so trusting and so true. Though there were times you did some things you knew you shouldn't do. You have been forgiven and now at last you're free. So won't you come and take my hand and share my life with me? So when tomorrow starts with out me don't think we're far apart, For every time you think of me, I'm right here in your heart.
Author: David Romano
************************************
"UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN"
A smile so bright it can light up any dark place
A soul so beautiful accompanied by a matching face
A laugh so contagious I miss it every day
A love so strong it will never fade
The world was better with you in it
My heart was full but now it isn't
I cherish the moments we have had
From birth you were my biggest fan
Support, prayer, or just lending an ear
You listened to me and helped me face every fear
No matter what was going on you were always here
This part of my life will never seem fair
I've never done anything without you
And now I never will have too
you're My Guardian Angel and I know that's true
I thank you mommy for raising me to be just like you!
As times pass your family will continue to grow
We all love you more than you could ever know
The years will pass but the memories will remain
Hopefully we can eventually heal from this pain
A Wife, a Mother, a Daughter, a Grandmother, a Sister, a Aunt & Cousin
But most importantly an Angel and my very Best Friend
I can't say goodbye only until we meet again
Love your Daughter,
Jennifer Bengtson Fryman
************
To My Mom from Jennifer
If Roses grow in Heaven, Lord,
please pick a bunch for me,
Place them in my Mother's arms
and tell her they're from me.
Tell her, I love her and I miss her,
and when she turns to smile,
place a kiss upon her cheek
and hold her for awhile.
Remembering her is easy,
I do it every day,
but there's an ache within my heart
that will never go away.
Added by Uncle Johnnie
************************************
I'M FREE !
Don't grieve for me for now I'm free. I'm following the path God has laid you see. I took His hand when I heard His call. I turned my back and left it all. I could not stay another day to laugh, to love, to work, or play. Tasks left undone must stay that way. I found peace at the close of day. If my parting has left a void then fill it with remembered joys. A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss. O yes, these things too, I will miss. Be not burdened with times of sorrow. I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow. My life's been full I savored much, good friends, good times, a loved one's touch. Perhaps my time seemed all too brief. Don't lengthen it now with undue grief. Lift up your hearts and peace to thee . . God wanted me now. He set me free.
************************************
MOTHERHOOD
The most important person on earth is a mother. She cannot claim the honor of having built Notre Dame Cathedral. She need not. She has built something more magnificent than any cathedral - a dwelling for the immortal soul, the tiny perfection of her baby's body.
The angels have not been blessed with such a grace. they cannot share in God's creative miracles to bring new saints to Heaven. Mothers are closer to God, the Creator, than any other creature. God joins forces with mothers in performing this act of creation. What in God's good world is more glorious than this: to be a mother.
************************************
"God made a wonderful Mother,
A Mother who never grew old,
He gave her a smile of sunshine,
And molded a heart into gold.
He made her so like an angel,
As anyone ever could be.
God made a wonderful Mother,
Then gave that Mother to me.
Eternal rest give unto her, O, Lord,
And let perpetual light shine upon her.
May she rest in peace..."
*************************************
"My Mother kept a garden,
a garden of the heart.
She planted all the good things,
that gave my life it's start.
She turned me to the sunshine and
encouraged me to dream;
fostering and nurturing, the seeds of self-esteem.
And when the winds and rains came,
she protected me enough-but not too much.
She knew I'd need to stand up strong and tough.
Her constant good Christian example
Always taught me right from wrong;
Markers for my pathway
that will last a lifetime long.
I am my Mother's garden
I am her legacy.
And I hope today she feels the love
reflected back from me."
The above written for Jennifer,(Her Daughter)
A Tribute to Rita from Johnnie
From all of my memories, Rita was a very Loving, Caring, and Thoughtful person.
Rest in Peace,Rita,You are Loved very much by Jennifer and Myself and Missed by all, Love You, Johnnie.
************************************
************************************
DEATH IS NOTHING AT ALL
- by Canon Henry Scott -Holland -Canon of St Paul's Cathedral, "The King of Terrors", a sermon on death delivered in St Paul's Cathedral on Whitsunday 1910, while the body of King Edward VII was lying in state at Westminster: published in Facts of the Faith, 1919.
Death is nothing at all
I have only slipped away into the next room
I am I and you are you
Whatever we were to each other
That we are still
Call me by my old familiar name
Speak to me in the easy way you always used
Put no difference into your tone
Wear no forced air of solemnity or sorrow
Laugh as we always laughed
At the little jokes we always enjoyed together
Play, smile, think of me, pray for me
Let my name be ever the household word that it always was
Let it be spoken without effort
Without the ghost of a shadow in it
Life means all that it ever meant
It is the same as it ever was
There is absolute unbroken continuity
What is death but a negligible accident?
Why should I be out of mind
Because I am out of sight?
I am waiting for you for an interval
Somewhere very near
Just around the corner
All is well.
Nothing is past; nothing is lost
One brief moment and all will be as it was before
How we shall laugh at the trouble of parting when we meet again!
Johnnie: To Know Rita was to Love her !!
***********
Death takes the Body.
God takes the Soul.
Our mind holds the Memories.
Our Heart keeps the Love whole.
***********
We little knew that day that God was going to call your name;
In life we loved you dearly, in death we do the same;
It broke our hearts to lose you, you did not go alone.
For part of us went with you, the day God called you home;
You left us peaceful memories, your love is still our guide;
And though we cannot see you, you are always at our side;
Our family chain is broken and nothing seems the same;
But as God calls us one by one, the chain is linked again.
The Unbroken Chain-Author Unknown
***********
Johnnie Richardson:
To me, Rita was as Beautiful as Farrah Fawcett, Movie Actress, who passed away June 25,2009
**********************************
Rita's unique and beautiful spirit will always remain with all of us who were fortunate to have known her.
************************************************
GOD'S BEAUTIFUL GARDEN
God looked around His Garden and found an empty place. He then looked down upon the earth and saw your beautiful tired face. He knew that you were suffering. He knew that you were in pain. He knew that you would never get well on earth again. He saw the road getting rough and the hills were hard to climb. So He closed your weary eyelids and whispered 'peace is thine.' He put His arms around you and He lifted you to rest. God's Beautiful Garden must be Beautiful, He only takes the Best. If tears could build a stairway, and heartaches could make a lane, we'd walk a path to Heaven and bring you home again.
***********************************************
RITA CAROLYN BENGTSON ZALENSKI
Rita Carolyn Bengtson Zalenski of Killeen, was called home Thursday, November 23, 2006. An Angel whispered to this Beautiful Lady and said take my hand and come with me, your work here is done. She went away to a place where there's no tears, nor sorrow or pain, only laughter and smiles and there will always be a tomorrow. As the Angel held her hand she whispered once again and said do not be afraid my child you are not alone, all who went before you are there awaiting for your return. Rita hesitated for a moment until she heard our words, "It's alright Mom, we will be ok." As we wept and held her hands, a tear fell from her eye and she passed quietly. She was surrounded by her loving husband and family. Rita was reunited with her parents, Roy Harold Bengtson and Grace Louise Tollison Bengtson; and those that she loved from many years before. It was a great celebration on that special day, when our Heavenly Father called her back home to thee.
Rita was born 24 July 1952. She moved to Killeen during her childhood years. She attended Killeen High School and married soon after that . Rita is survived by her husband, Walter Zalenski and her two children, Jennifer and Stephen. She had a heart of gold and was always there to help her family when in need. Rita loved unconditionally and whole-heartily. She will be truly missed by all who knew and loved her. "Until we meet again Mom, we love you."
************************************************
"If Tomorrow Starts Without Me"
If tomorrow starts without me, and I'm not here to see, If the sun should rise you find your eyes all filled with tears for me; I wish so much you wouldn't cry the way you did today, While thinking of the many things we didn't get to say. I know how much you love me, as much as I love you And each time that you think of me, I know you'll miss me too. But when tomorrow starts without me please try to understand, That an angel came and called my name and took me by the hand. He said my place was ready, in heaven far above And that I'd have to leave behind all those I dearly love. But as I turned and walked away a tear fell from my eye. For all my life I'd always thought, I didn't want to die. I had so much to live for, so much left yet to do. It seemed almost impossible that I was leaving you. I thought of all the yesterdays the good ones and the bad. I thought of all the love we shared, and all the fun we had. If I could relive yesterday, just even for a while, I'd say goodbye and kiss you and maybe see you smile. But then I fully realized that this could never be, For emptiness and memories would take the place of me. When I thought of worldly things I might miss come tomorrow I thought of you and when I did my heart was filled with sorrow. When I walked through heavens gates I felt so much at home. God looked down and smiled at me from his great golden throne He said, "This is eternity and all I've promised you" Today your life on earth has passed but here life starts anew. I promise no tomorrow, but today will always last And since each day is the same there's no longing for the past. You have been so faithful so trusting and so true. Though there were times you did some things you knew you shouldn't do. You have been forgiven and now at last you're free. So won't you come and take my hand and share my life with me? So when tomorrow starts with out me don't think we're far apart, For every time you think of me, I'm right here in your heart.
Author: David Romano
************************************
"UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN"
A smile so bright it can light up any dark place
A soul so beautiful accompanied by a matching face
A laugh so contagious I miss it every day
A love so strong it will never fade
The world was better with you in it
My heart was full but now it isn't
I cherish the moments we have had
From birth you were my biggest fan
Support, prayer, or just lending an ear
You listened to me and helped me face every fear
No matter what was going on you were always here
This part of my life will never seem fair
I've never done anything without you
And now I never will have too
you're My Guardian Angel and I know that's true
I thank you mommy for raising me to be just like you!
As times pass your family will continue to grow
We all love you more than you could ever know
The years will pass but the memories will remain
Hopefully we can eventually heal from this pain
A Wife, a Mother, a Daughter, a Grandmother, a Sister, a Aunt & Cousin
But most importantly an Angel and my very Best Friend
I can't say goodbye only until we meet again
Love your Daughter,
Jennifer Bengtson Fryman
************
To My Mom from Jennifer
If Roses grow in Heaven, Lord,
please pick a bunch for me,
Place them in my Mother's arms
and tell her they're from me.
Tell her, I love her and I miss her,
and when she turns to smile,
place a kiss upon her cheek
and hold her for awhile.
Remembering her is easy,
I do it every day,
but there's an ache within my heart
that will never go away.
Added by Uncle Johnnie
************************************
I'M FREE !
Don't grieve for me for now I'm free. I'm following the path God has laid you see. I took His hand when I heard His call. I turned my back and left it all. I could not stay another day to laugh, to love, to work, or play. Tasks left undone must stay that way. I found peace at the close of day. If my parting has left a void then fill it with remembered joys. A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss. O yes, these things too, I will miss. Be not burdened with times of sorrow. I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow. My life's been full I savored much, good friends, good times, a loved one's touch. Perhaps my time seemed all too brief. Don't lengthen it now with undue grief. Lift up your hearts and peace to thee . . God wanted me now. He set me free.
************************************
MOTHERHOOD
The most important person on earth is a mother. She cannot claim the honor of having built Notre Dame Cathedral. She need not. She has built something more magnificent than any cathedral - a dwelling for the immortal soul, the tiny perfection of her baby's body.
The angels have not been blessed with such a grace. they cannot share in God's creative miracles to bring new saints to Heaven. Mothers are closer to God, the Creator, than any other creature. God joins forces with mothers in performing this act of creation. What in God's good world is more glorious than this: to be a mother.
************************************
"God made a wonderful Mother,
A Mother who never grew old,
He gave her a smile of sunshine,
And molded a heart into gold.
He made her so like an angel,
As anyone ever could be.
God made a wonderful Mother,
Then gave that Mother to me.
Eternal rest give unto her, O, Lord,
And let perpetual light shine upon her.
May she rest in peace..."
*************************************
"My Mother kept a garden,
a garden of the heart.
She planted all the good things,
that gave my life it's start.
She turned me to the sunshine and
encouraged me to dream;
fostering and nurturing, the seeds of self-esteem.
And when the winds and rains came,
she protected me enough-but not too much.
She knew I'd need to stand up strong and tough.
Her constant good Christian example
Always taught me right from wrong;
Markers for my pathway
that will last a lifetime long.
I am my Mother's garden
I am her legacy.
And I hope today she feels the love
reflected back from me."
The above written for Jennifer,(Her Daughter)
A Tribute to Rita from Johnnie
From all of my memories, Rita was a very Loving, Caring, and Thoughtful person.
Rest in Peace,Rita,You are Loved very much by Jennifer and Myself and Missed by all, Love You, Johnnie.
************************************
************************************
DEATH IS NOTHING AT ALL
- by Canon Henry Scott -Holland -Canon of St Paul's Cathedral, "The King of Terrors", a sermon on death delivered in St Paul's Cathedral on Whitsunday 1910, while the body of King Edward VII was lying in state at Westminster: published in Facts of the Faith, 1919.
Death is nothing at all
I have only slipped away into the next room
I am I and you are you
Whatever we were to each other
That we are still
Call me by my old familiar name
Speak to me in the easy way you always used
Put no difference into your tone
Wear no forced air of solemnity or sorrow
Laugh as we always laughed
At the little jokes we always enjoyed together
Play, smile, think of me, pray for me
Let my name be ever the household word that it always was
Let it be spoken without effort
Without the ghost of a shadow in it
Life means all that it ever meant
It is the same as it ever was
There is absolute unbroken continuity
What is death but a negligible accident?
Why should I be out of mind
Because I am out of sight?
I am waiting for you for an interval
Somewhere very near
Just around the corner
All is well.
Nothing is past; nothing is lost
One brief moment and all will be as it was before
How we shall laugh at the trouble of parting when we meet again!
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Death takes the Body.
God takes the Soul.
Our mind holds the Memories.
Our Heart keeps the Love whole.
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We little knew that day that God was going to call your name;
In life we loved you dearly, in death we do the same;
It broke our hearts to lose you, you did not go alone.
For part of us went with you, the day God called you home;
You left us peaceful memories, your love is still our guide;
And though we cannot see you, you are always at our side;
Our family chain is broken and nothing seems the same;
But as God calls us one by one, the chain is linked again.
The Unbroken Chain-Author Unknown
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Johnnie Richardson:
To me, Rita was as Beautiful as Farrah Fawcett, Movie Actress, who passed away June 25,2009
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Rita's unique and beautiful spirit will always remain with all of us who were fortunate to have known her.
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GOD'S BEAUTIFUL GARDEN
God looked around His Garden and found an empty place. He then looked down upon the earth and saw your beautiful tired face. He knew that you were suffering. He knew that you were in pain. He knew that you would never get well on earth again. He saw the road getting rough and the hills were hard to climb. So He closed your weary eyelids and whispered 'peace is thine.' He put His arms around you and He lifted you to rest. God's Beautiful Garden must be Beautiful, He only takes the Best. If tears could build a stairway, and heartaches could make a lane, we'd walk a path to Heaven and bring you home again.
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RITA CAROLYN BENGTSON ZALENSKI
Rita Carolyn Bengtson Zalenski of Killeen, was called home Thursday, November 23, 2006. An Angel whispered to this Beautiful Lady and said take my hand and come with me, your work here is done. She went away to a place where there's no tears, nor sorrow or pain, only laughter and smiles and there will always be a tomorrow. As the Angel held her hand she whispered once again and said do not be afraid my child you are not alone, all who went before you are there awaiting for your return. Rita hesitated for a moment until she heard our words, "It's alright Mom, we will be ok." As we wept and held her hands, a tear fell from her eye and she passed quietly. She was surrounded by her loving husband and family. Rita was reunited with her parents, Roy Harold Bengtson and Grace Louise Tollison Bengtson; and those that she loved from many years before. It was a great celebration on that special day, when our Heavenly Father called her back home to thee.
Rita was born 24 July 1952. She moved to Killeen during her childhood years. She attended Killeen High School and married soon after that . Rita is survived by her husband, Walter Zalenski and her two children, Jennifer and Stephen. She had a heart of gold and was always there to help her family when in need. Rita loved unconditionally and whole-heartily. She will be truly missed by all who knew and loved her. "Until we meet again Mom, we love you."
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"If Tomorrow Starts Without Me"
If tomorrow starts without me, and I'm not here to see, If the sun should rise you find your eyes all filled with tears for me; I wish so much you wouldn't cry the way you did today, While thinking of the many things we didn't get to say. I know how much you love me, as much as I love you And each time that you think of me, I know you'll miss me too. But when tomorrow starts without me please try to understand, That an angel came and called my name and took me by the hand. He said my place was ready, in heaven far above And that I'd have to leave behind all those I dearly love. But as I turned and walked away a tear fell from my eye. For all my life I'd always thought, I didn't want to die. I had so much to live for, so much left yet to do. It seemed almost impossible that I was leaving you. I thought of all the yesterdays the good ones and the bad. I thought of all the love we shared, and all the fun we had. If I could relive yesterday, just even for a while, I'd say goodbye and kiss you and maybe see you smile. But then I fully realized that this could never be, For emptiness and memories would take the place of me. When I thought of worldly things I might miss come tomorrow I thought of you and when I did my heart was filled with sorrow. When I walked through heavens gates I felt so much at home. God looked down and smiled at me from his great golden throne He said, "This is eternity and all I've promised you" Today your life on earth has passed but here life starts anew. I promise no tomorrow, but today will always last And since each day is the same there's no longing for the past. You have been so faithful so trusting and so true. Though there were times you did some things you knew you shouldn't do. You have been forgiven and now at last you're free. So won't you come and take my hand and share my life with me? So when tomorrow starts with out me don't think we're far apart, For every time you think of me, I'm right here in your heart.
Author: David Romano
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"UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN"
A smile so bright it can light up any dark place
A soul so beautiful accompanied by a matching face
A laugh so contagious I miss it every day
A love so strong it will never fade
The world was better with you in it
My heart was full but now it isn't
I cherish the moments we have had
From birth you were my biggest fan
Support, prayer, or just lending an ear
You listened to me and helped me face every fear
No matter what was going on you were always here
This part of my life will never seem fair
I've never done anything without you
And now I never will have too
you're My Guardian Angel and I know that's true
I thank you mommy for raising me to be just like you!
As times pass your family will continue to grow
We all love you more than you could ever know
The years will pass but the memories will remain
Hopefully we can eventually heal from this pain
A Wife, a Mother, a Daughter, a Grandmother, a Sister, a Aunt & Cousin
But most importantly an Angel and my very Best Friend
I can't say goodbye only until we meet again
Love your Daughter,
Jennifer Bengtson Fryman
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To My Mom from Jennifer
If Roses grow in Heaven, Lord,
please pick a bunch for me,
Place them in my Mother's arms
and tell her they're from me.
Tell her, I love her and I miss her,
and when she turns to smile,
place a kiss upon her cheek
and hold her for awhile.
Remembering her is easy,
I do it every day,
but there's an ache within my heart
that will never go away.
Added by Uncle Johnnie
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I'M FREE !
Don't grieve for me for now I'm free. I'm following the path God has laid you see. I took His hand when I heard His call. I turned my back and left it all. I could not stay another day to laugh, to love, to work, or play. Tasks left undone must stay that way. I found peace at the close of day. If my parting has left a void then fill it with remembered joys. A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss. O yes, these things too, I will miss. Be not burdened with times of sorrow. I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow. My life's been full I savored much, good friends, good times, a loved one's touch. Perhaps my time seemed all too brief. Don't lengthen it now with undue grief. Lift up your hearts and peace to thee . . God wanted me now. He set me free.
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MOTHERHOOD
The most important person on earth is a mother. She cannot claim the honor of having built Notre Dame Cathedral. She need not. She has built something more magnificent than any cathedral - a dwelling for the immortal soul, the tiny perfection of her baby's body.
The angels have not been blessed with such a grace. they cannot share in God's creative miracles to bring new saints to Heaven. Mothers are closer to God, the Creator, than any other creature. God joins forces with mothers in performing this act of creation. What in God's good world is more glorious than this: to be a mother.
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"God made a wonderful Mother,
A Mother who never grew old,
He gave her a smile of sunshine,
And molded a heart into gold.
He made her so like an angel,
As anyone ever could be.
God made a wonderful Mother,
Then gave that Mother to me.
Eternal rest give unto her, O, Lord,
And let perpetual light shine upon her.
May she rest in peace..."
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"My Mother kept a garden,
a garden of the heart.
She planted all the good things,
that gave my life it's start.
She turned me to the sunshine and
encouraged me to dream;
fostering and nurturing, the seeds of self-esteem.
And when the winds and rains came,
she protected me enough-but not too much.
She knew I'd need to stand up strong and tough.
Her constant good Christian example
Always taught me right from wrong;
Markers for my pathway
that will last a lifetime long.
I am my Mother's garden
I am her legacy.
And I hope today she feels the love
reflected back from me."
The above written for Jennifer,(Her Daughter)
A Tribute to Rita from Johnnie
From all of my memories, Rita was a very Loving, Caring, and Thoughtful person.
Rest in Peace,Rita,You are Loved very much by Jennifer and Myself and Missed by all, Love You, Johnnie.
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DEATH IS NOTHING AT ALL
- by Canon Henry Scott -Holland -Canon of St Paul's Cathedral, "The King of Terrors", a sermon on death delivered in St Paul's Cathedral on Whitsunday 1910, while the body of King Edward VII was lying in state at Westminster: published in Facts of the Faith, 1919.
Death is nothing at all
I have only slipped away into the next room
I am I and you are you
Whatever we were to each other
That we are still
Call me by my old familiar name
Speak to me in the easy way you always used
Put no difference into your tone
Wear no forced air of solemnity or sorrow
Laugh as we always laughed
At the little jokes we always enjoyed together
Play, smile, think of me, pray for me
Let my name be ever the household word that it always was
Let it be spoken without effort
Without the ghost of a shadow in it
Life means all that it ever meant
It is the same as it ever was
There is absolute unbroken continuity
What is death but a negligible accident?
Why should I be out of mind
Because I am out of sight?
I am waiting for you for an interval
Somewhere very near
Just around the corner
All is well.
Nothing is past; nothing is lost
One brief moment and all will be as it was before
How we shall laugh at the trouble of parting when we meet again!
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"Forever In Our Hearts"
