In Memory of Dustin “Rooster” Ferguson
September 22nd, 2011 by Joe BurgessMADD Mock DWI / 4/13/2009
“In memory of Rooster”
Tuesday would have been your twenty second birthday.
It’s hard to believe that you have been gone three years, today.
We miss you everyday but have much comfort knowing “my soul finds rest in GOD alone: my salvation comes from HIM. He alone is my rock and my salvation: He is my fortress, I will never be shaken”.
I am sure that you have had the best birthday celebration ever and I am sure you are dancing around.If I know you: probally trying to teach the angels how to do the “motorcycle” dance that your NENE never mastered!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, my baby boy!
Love you, forever and always,
Momma
(Based from a comment posted on Dustin’s birthday, Tuesday.)
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Jury Sentences Bates to 16 Years for Fatal Car Crash that Killed 19 Year Old
August 26, 2010
A Drew County jury took approximately 3 hours to determine the sentence for Jennifer Irene Bates, Wednesday afternoon, after one juror who didn’t want to send Bates to prison was replaced. The dismissed juror told MonticelloLive, “That’s not the same lady that was drinking and driving that day,” referring to Bates’ current mental state.
The jury then sentenced her to serve 10 years on the negligent homicide case, and another 6 for the aggravated assault charge.
The charges are to run consecutively, for a total of 16 years, but Bates could be eligible for parole in less than 3 years.
A representative of the Arkansas Dept. of Correction had testified that they could provide care for disabled inmates, as needed.
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Posted August 25, 2010
Jury Finds Bates Guilty of All Charges for Fatal Car Crash that Killed 19 Year Old
Testimony began at 8:30 this morning, and concluded at 8:45 in the guilt portion of the trial of Jennifer Irene Bates, who is charged with negligent homicide (or a possible alternate charge of manslaughter) for the September 22, 2008, death of Dustin “Rooster” Ferguson.
The jury was chosen by noon Tuesday, and the state presented it’s case, except for the blood alcohol witness, who testified this morning.
Tuesday’s witnesses for the state included an employee from Sonic, who testified that less than 10 minutes before she heard sirens responding to the fatal crash that day, she saw Bates drinking vodka and appearing to be intoxicated when she was ordering a soft drink and a corn dog at Sonic. One of the vodka bottles was left at the business, as was presented as evidence.
Four witnesses testified as to the speed of Bates’ vehicle, and that she was driving north, faster than the speed of traffic, in the turning lane, and also in the oncoming southbound lane, prior to the crash.
Testimony was also given by the Arkansas State Trooper that investigated the wreck.
Wednesday, a representative of the Arkansas Dept. of Alcohol Testing testified that Bates’ blood sample was analyzed to be. 0.27, more than three times the legal limit.
Closing arguments began just after 9 o’clock. Then the jury deliberated until 10:15, when they came back with guilty verdicts on all 3 charges, negligent homicide, manslaughter, and aggravated assault.
The aggravated assault charge is for damage and injury to the driver of another vehicle that was also involved, and the accident.
Judge Bynum Gibson removed the charge of manslaughter from the jury’s decision, since it was basically a duplication of the charge of negligent homicide, except without the alcohol stipulation. Also, both charges carry the possible sentence of 3-10 years.
The sentencing part of the trial began next, and included testimony from Dustin Ferguson’s father and sister about how Dustin’s death has affected their lives.
Two family doctors and a neurosurgeon were called to the stand to tell about her health conditions.
A psychiatrist and a psychologist were also called to explain Bates’ mental and cognitive situation.
An LPN from Bates’ nursing home told about her daily activites and limitations. She told the jury that Bates needs help with dressing, bathing, and medication. She was then asked about a signed form that stated that Bates’ understands the facilities smoking policies, and would be allowed to smoke, if she wanted to.
Ms. Bates took the stand, and said that she couldn’t remember that day, but that her family told her about it. She also apologized for the events that occurred that September afternoon.
Bates’ sister testified about her condition, and about her limited activities, adding that Bates has an 85-90 year old roommate.
A psychologist testified that he felt Bates was “faking” during part of her IQ test, and explained his opinion.
During the closing arguments, Prosecutor Frank Spain told the jury, “the defense will tell you that she’s suffered enough, but her condition is a result of her actions,” and that “giving her probation is not the message you want to send.”
Public defender Tim Leonard, assisted in the case by Sandra Bradshaw, suggested that the jury give Bates probation. He told the jury, “I’m not representing the Jennifer Bates that was drinking and driving, but the childlike nursing home resident that is here today.”
Judge Gibson told the court, “the jury may only consider her health conditions if they choose to.”
The prosecution pointed out, in response to Bates and her sister’s desire for her to be able to speak to groups and tell her story, that testimony said that she has no memory of that day, and also that she didn’t have to be sentenced to “tell her story”, and she hasn’t done so yet. Spain added, “All DWI’s are dangerous, and she did that at 2:50 in the afternoon on the most dangerous road in this town.
The jury went into the sentencing phase at 2:05.
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Posted at 4 pm, August 24, 2010
The trial for Jennifer Irene Bates finished its day around 3 pm, Tuesday afternoon, with the state expecting to call their final witness, to testify about blood alcohol content.
The prosecution isn’t expected to call any witnesses in this stage of the trial.
The case will likely be handed over to the jury to determine the guilt or innocence of Bates by 10 am.
The sentencing portion of the trial, if needed, would begin after the verdict comes back from the jury, with victim impact statements from the family members of both sides of the case.
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Posted at 12:30, August 24, 2010
Jury Chosen for Bates Trial for Fatal Car Crash; Opening Argument Begin at 1:30
A 12 person jury, along with 2 alternates has been chosen for the trial of Jennifer Irene Bates, charged with negligent homicide (or a possible alternate charge of manslaughter) for the September 22, 2008, death of Dustin “Rooster” Ferguson. Bates has also been charged with aggravated assault in the alleged alcohol related accident for damage and injury to the driver of another vehicle that was also involved.
MonticelloLive.com will update the case later today.
The trial is expected to last two days.
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Posted Aug. 11, 2010
Bates Trial for Dustin’s Driving Death Set for August 24-25
Jennifer Bates had court hearings on Monday and Tuesday in the Drew County Circuit Court, dealing with motions and issues involved in the September 22, 2008 automobile crash, near Wendy’s and Walmart, which claimed the life of Dustin “Rooster” Ferguson.
Bates’ public defender presented motions dealing with mental evaluations of Bates’ condition after she sustained brain injuries in the wreck, and also a motion to move the trial to another county, due to pre-formed opinions by prospective jurors.
Judge Bynum Gibson ruled on the motions, and set the court date for August 24-25.
Judge Gibson ruled that the court record shows reports from both a psychiatrist and a psychologist at this time, and encouraged the public defender to seek another professional opinion, if they felt the need, as long as it didn’t affect the court date.
Dr. Kim, a licensed state clinical psychologist, testified, Monday, that he felt Bates had the ability to assist in her defense against these charges. Tuesday, an LPN from the nursing home where Bates lives testified to her abilities and daily activities.
Judge Gibson ruled that Bates would be able to assist her defense council in her case, to an appropriate level to allow the case to proceed.
Next the defense presented affidavits from members of the public, stating that they felt there could not be a fair trial in Drew County. A friend of the Bates family testified about comments that she had heard in various places around town.
The editor of the local paper, followed the owner of MonticelloLive, were asked about their news coverage, and if it would likely prevent an impartial jury from being seated.
Judge Gibson ruled that, if both jury panels were called, that there should be at least 12 jurors and an alternate to serve on the case.
A possible plea bargain was discussed , Monday, but the time for plea bargains had passed, due to a June 28 ruling.
Also, the prosecution added manslaughter as a possible alternative charge, for the jury to consider.
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Posted March 2, 2010
Charges Filed Against Driver for Dustin Ferguson’s Death in Sept. 2008 Car Crash
Jennifer Bates, of Star City, the driver of the vehicle that caused the fatal collision on September 22, 2008, that claimed the life of 19 year old Dustin “Rooster” Ferguson, has been charged with negligent homicide and aggravated assault, in Drew County Circuit Court by the prosecuting attorney’s office.
Bates had not been charged previously, because of her medical condion following the wreck.
The charge of negligent homicide includes the words “while intoxicated or with an alcohol concentration of in excess of .08%”.
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In Memory of Dustin Ferguson
Posted Sept. 21, 2009.
This week marks one year since the loss of Dustin “Rooster” Ferguson in an automobile crash on HWY 425 North, near Walmart.
The number of friends and acquaintances that have come to be heard from since Dustin’s untimely death has shown just how much of an impact that his short life has made on so many people.
When MADD presented their annual Mock DWI Accident at MHS, this year’s event was done in memory of Dustin. MonticelloLive video taped the portrayal of what really happens at the scene of an alcohol related, fatality car crash, and it has been viewed over 400 times, click here to see the video.
This special edition of One Monticello Life was written by a relative of Dustin’s shortly after his death, and is tribute to how one young man, living for God, can change the world around him.———————————
What an honor it is for me to be able to write such a tribute to such a fine young man. What sorrow it is for me to sit here and wipe away tears thinking of how much he will be missed. A fine spirit, a big heart, and a love for everyone. Dustin Ferguson.
Dustin, better known as Rooster, was born September 20, 1989 to Ray and Tina Ferguson. Dustin grew up in Monticello and was a graduate of Monticello High School, and a Student at UAM. He was a free spirited guy who loved God, life, and people. Dustin was outgoing, and loved to tell stories, jokes, or just do something out of the ordinary to make people laugh. He loved to smile, and wanted to see others with a smile on their face. You could be having the worst day, and after spending about five minutes with Dustin, you forgot every problem, care or worry you had.
Dustin had many hobbies. He loved to hunt, fish, and spend time with his family and friends. Dustin also had another hobby: his faith, which he shared with countless people. His life was a testimony to the many he came in contact with.
Dustin lived his life to the fullest, never knowing if that day may have been his last. His heart was bigger than anyone I know, and he was always willing to give or to help someone in need, always putting others first. You could see Dustin’s testimony in his love, his giving and in all that he did. It was nothing to see Dustin out at Wal-Mart or a gas station in boxers, his boots and a hat. He made that wardrobe famous! But no matter what he was wearing, or where he was at, you could always count on a kind word and a smile from him.
Dustin built his life on friendship, and would fight giants for his friends or family, even if it meant getting “a little roughed up.” He always had a crowd of people around him, or could attract one very easily. If you ever needed something, Dustin was there instantly to lend a hand, a shoulder to cry on, or just a smile. It is hard to understand why God would take someone so young, who had his whole life in front of him. But we are taught not to question God, that He does all things for a reason.
Dustin believed that.
Even though he isn’t here with us on earth, you can bet that a day won’t pass, that he isn’t watching over every one of us. No one knew what the future held for Dustin, but God did, and He knew that life would be better for him in Heaven. That doesn’t make the pain any easier for any of us, and it will take weeks, months, and maybe years to get over his loss. But he will be with us in our heart, and our memories of him will help each of us get through those difficult days.
Dustin was a giver, and he gave his heart to help others, be an example, and to share his faith. Let’s not let Rooster down. Let’s continue what he did everyday: loving, helping, sharing and smiling. Rest in Peace Dustin, for we will see you real soon. Thank you for being an example to us all, and thank you for being such a great One Monticello Life
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The loss of Dustin Ferguson has received over 175 comments from MonticelloLive readers, more than any story that’s ever been posted.
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The story below posted on September 23, 2008
Tuesday 4 PM Update–Fatality Wreck Near Wendys & Wal-Mart-Monday
The driver of the Chevy Silverado, shown on the left, was reportedly traveling north on HWY 425 North, near Wendy’s and Wal-Mart around 2:45, Monday afternoon, when she pulled into the turning lane, and crossed into oncoming traffic in the inside southbound lane.
Dustin Ferguson, age 19, of Monticello, was traveling south in the Ford Ranger pick-up, shown on the right, when the Silverado struck him head on. According to witnesses, Mr. Ferguson died at the scene.Â
 After the original impact, the Ford struck a third vehicle, which sustained minor damage.Â
The driver of the Chevy, will be listed as being at fault, has been identified as Jennifer Bates, age 29, of Star City. She was ejected from the vehicle as it continued northbound. She has since been transferred to Jefferson Regional Medical Center in Pine Bluff, where as of 6:30 Tuesday morning, she remained in critical condition. As of 4 PM, JRMC had made no notification of a change in her status.
The accident was investigated by Arkansas State Trooper Clayton Moss, with assistance on the scene from the Monticello Police Dept. and Drew County Sheriff’s Dept. The fire and rescue units also responded.
Testing will be done, as with all fatality accidents, to determine if there were any contributing factors to the events that took place.
Following the news of the accident, around 150 youth of our area gathered at Drew Memorial Hospital, and started a prayer vigil. Rev. Jimmy Albrecht and Rev. Ray Hearron, of Second Baptist Church, and Bro William West, youth pastor of Shady Grove Baptist, were also there to minister to those in need.
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WOW–HER OWN ACTIONS caused her to be sent to the unit. She created her own handicap and she will have a better chance of defending herself than her victim did when she crushed, maimed and killed him. In 3 years, she’ll be out of the place and that boy’s body will still be in the ground.
She can’t make any worse decisions now that she’s handicapped than she did when she supposedly had a “good mind.” If she’d used her good sense when she had it, she, like every other prisoner wouldn’t be behind bars. If she had used her good mind, the “state of Arkansas” wouldn’t have even known, or cared, who she was. Neither would have the prosecutor, the judge, jury and most of the general public….
The fact is that there are many people in prison who aren’t the brightest bulbs in the box. And every felon has a family who loves him/her and believes that their loved one shouldn’t be in prison because….(pick a reason). I’m not saying this is an evil woman…she might have been a perfectly likeable person for all I know, but she was her own worst enemy and I can’t help but believe that there were people who knew she had a bad problem and either wouldn’t, or couldn’t, stop her self destructive behavior. This type of drunken lunacy didn’t just come about overnight. This had to have been building to a crisis point for years. Most people, except a hardened drinker, would be comatose with that alcohol level…comatose or near death with alcohol poisoning.
The deed is done, the justice system has spoken…There are no winners here…only destruction.
That would be the McPherson SPU Unit – currently holding 12 inmates. She is isolated with 11 other inmates, not in general population.
And you alone are part of that destruction. I am sorry that you have lost so much. But death is a part of life and everyone goes thru lost. Its how we deal with the lost, that shows our true character and you have dealt with it far from graciously. We can not control the actions of others only the way we react to those actions. I pray that God helps ease your suffer. I personally dont want to see this girl suffer anymore. Dustin cant suffer anymore but she can and you seem bend on making sure that she and her faimly both so. Its funny this case gets so much attention yet the cases of child abuse and rape get less attention and time than this hanicap women did. And for those of you that say it was by her on hands that she is hanocap, Im sorry but last time I checked my beliefs and Bible God is control of everything that happens. So get off your high horse and realize that in the Bible no one sin is great than the other and he will judge you by the same standards as this woman. And God has already punished her enough. It is not your place to keep beating a dead horse. She will serve out the sentence that a prejudice uncaring and compassionate jury of 12 gave her and all you are doing by continue to harp on the fact that she did this to herself is hurting everyone involved including yourself because aslong as you continue this you will be unable to heal and move on. Now lets just all move on.
Thank you, “Really”, for clarifying the facts as to the conditions of Ms. Bates’s incarceration. I had thought it unlikely that Ms. Bates would be taken to a facility and that officials at that unit would be unaware of her condition, as one writer stated. No one wishes Ms. Bates to be inhumanely treated. It is good to know that she is in a smaller environment that caters to inmates with special needs.
Reply to WOW:
Excuse me, but I had nothing to do with the destruction of either family. I am not kin to anyone involved, nor am I suffering due to this particular loss. I do regret the loss of a seemingly fine boy who apparently was an asset to the community, and neither do I know Ms. Bates, except through her actions.
I’m sorry that the victim’s family isn’t “gracious” enough about the death of an innocent boy at the hands of a drunk. To say that “death is a part of life”, “at least Dustin isn’t suffering anymore”, and the mark of character is how one deals with the death of the victim is a remarkable statement. Perhaps the victim’s family should issue an apology to Ms. Bates’s family? “I’m sorry I made a victim impact statement”? “I’m sorry your loved one was hurt as she was killing Dustin?”
So, let’s see what we have here. The victim’s family has been unkind. God, not the alcohol filled victim, set all this in motion.
God left her handicapped and Dustin in the ground. Since God has handicapped Ms. Bates, the legal system has no business touching her. The prosecutor, the judge and the jury were all prejudiced and coldhearted.
The destruction of two families is My fault, the Victim’s Family’s fault, God’s fault, the Prosecutor’s Fault, the Jury’s fault and the only ones suffering are the perpetrator and her family, because God handicapped her but was kind enough to kill Dustin so he wouldn’t suffer. Oh, and the dead boy’s family didn’t handle it graciously? Weren’t THEY the ones who were verbally attacked in the courthouse? Were they supposed to beg the jury to forget the whole thing?
To take the victim’s family to task for being ungracious is ridiculous. For going to court? For giving victim impact statements?
That jury represented the public, including me. I think they did a good job and I think they reflect the views of most of the public.
Of course the Bates family is hurting. They feel Ms. Bates has suffered enough, and they’re angry that the legal system even took this case on. Their friends and extended family feel their pain and want to help them. But assuming that only the family of the victim would feel justice has been done is simply wrong. When someone writes in attacking the justice system, championing the cause of the perpetrator, so angry that SHE has been mistreated, there are people who ARE going to say, “Wait a minute, what about the victim?”
If you’re going to reply to ME…reply to ME, do not attack the victim’s family, lecturing them on graciousness, God and grief and how they should deal with their loss. They have nothing to do with what I write; I don’t share blood, nor am I close friends with either family. If Ms. Bates had been killed by a drunk driver, I would be just as adamant that the driver was wrong.
I DO believe it’s time to move on. The boy’s family is left with a grave and Ms. Bates’s family is left with an incarcerated, brain damaged family member, and all the lashing out at everybody in the world, raging at the injustice, anger at the victim’s family, attacking anyone who thinks justice was done–all the diatribes in the world will not change the facts. They have to confront and accept their situation the way the victim’s family had to accept their loss nearly two years ago. They will eventually get some form of their loved one back. The boy’s folks won’t. That is not being on a “high horse”. That’s flat out, impartial truth.
Originally she was to be included in the general population,she is now in a special area,that is a new thing,but originally she was to be placed in general population.
God does things we will NEVER UNDERSTAND. So before you all go and pass judgement on either family, remember God’s way is NOT our ways. True he took Dustin on September 22, 2008. But he gave Jennifer another chance at life with him. If you know Jennifer now you will see the love of God in her heart. She was always a very caring person and still is. I think that she is truly being punished in her own body, but you know SHE IS GOD’S CHILD. I believe that both families have suffered enough. SO STOP BAGERING THEM AND LEAVE THEM ALONE… INSTEAD PRAY THAT THIS NEVER HAPPENS TO YOUR FAMILY.
Of course Jennifer is God’s child, as are we all, though I do have a little problem with God being blamed for Dustin’s death. The issue was punishment for illegal behavior on this earth that resulted in the death of another of God’s children who was living his life with decency and respect for God and the community. To stand firm that justice was done is not badgering the family. And I certainly pray that this does not happen to my family. I live in fear that someone I love will be wiped out by someone who is drinking and driving. And I pray just as hard that none of my loved ones will maim or kill someone else or themselves so needlessly. Either scenario is every family’s nightmare. It’s a nightmare from which neither family will ever awaken.
I’ve only skimmed through and read some of these comments, because there are some that it hurts to read. Rooster was my cousin, and I loved him and his parents and grandparents dearly. They are wonderful, loving, Christian, forgiving people. They have been on the receiving end of a lot of verbal abuse over this entire trial, when the truth of the matter is, they had no control over it. The trial was not “Ferguson vs. Bates.” They didn’t choose to press charges on this lady. The city of Monticello chose to press charges, and the family had to once again relive the most horrible afternoon of their lives.
How many of you attended Rooster’s funeral? I was there. One of the things I remember most about that day, was the first thing we did when the funeral started. Anyone remember? By the family’s request, the first thing that we did was say a prayer for Jennifer Bates and her family. Yes, she was drinking and driving and she shouldn’t have been. Yes, she made bad choices. Yes, she killed my loving, beautiful cousin Rooster, whether intentional or not. And yes, she needs our love, forgiveness, and prayers…just as Rooster’s parents need them.
Dustin was a Christian who believed in God’s grace and mercy. God forgives us, no matter what sin we commit, big or small. It’s all the same to Him. However, there will always be earthly consequences for those sins. If a girl gets pregnant out of wedlock, she can be forgiven by God, but it doesn’t take her pregnancy away. She still has to deal with the consequences. Jennifer Bates did something she shouldn’t have done that September afternoon. She drank heavily and drove. Those actions cost the life of my cousin. She is now facing the consequences. She has been facing the consequences for 2 years now, and she will spend the rest of her life doing so.
I’ve read a lot of talk about how she is a different person now than she once was. I read her sister’s comment of how she has lost the sister she once knew. How her father lost his daughter in a sense. I can understand that it’s hard to look at someone who is still here but is also still so different. I understand it every time I look at Rooster’s mom. She is different now. She doesn’t laugh as much as she once did. She no longer has a son to love, and that has changed her into a different person. His death changed a lot of people. Jennifer Bates was just one of those people who was changed by her actions. Some may think that it’s easier to deal with losing someone entirely than it is to lose the person they once were. But in families who are as close as Dustin’s was, you can’t lose a member to death without it changing the people that loved him.
I hope that Jennifer Bates understands enough to know that Dustin’s family is praying for her. I hope she understands enough to put faith in God to have the best life she can, no matter what her circumstances. I pray for this for her, because I want her to make it to Heaven one day. I promise Rooster will be first in line to hug her at the Gates.
Today would have been your twenty second birthday. It’s hard to believe that you have been gone almost three years on the 22nd. We miss you everyday but have much comfort knowing “my soul finds rest in GOD alone: my salvation comes from HIM. He alone is my rock and my salvation: He is my fortress, I will never be shaken”. I am sure that you have had the best birthday celebration ever and I am sure you are dancing around.If I know you: probally trying to teach the angels how to do the “motorcycle” dance that your NENE never mastered!HAPPY BIRTHDAY my baby boy!
Love you forever and always,
Momma
May we never forget that innocent boy :(
Rest in peace my friend and classmate. We will always miss you. See you on the other side Rooster, Happy Birthday!!
-EM
We miss Rooster so much! Everytime he came over to visit with Dustin or spend the night, I always made sure I had Pizza Rolls! He loved them. Everytime I see them in the store, I think of Rooster. He played soccer with my Dustin and they went to Church together. Rooster was 1 in a million, so happy and so full of life and will never be forgotten! He was such a special young man.
Love momma # ??? (many)
Everyday that i come trough monticello, i have a thought about “the towns’” bestfriend! Rooster you’ll forever be missed!! Nowdays, as i think bout it, i realize the impact u had on my life and many others! Honest, comical, faithful are words thatll never begin to describe the man u were! A tear and a prayer go out to you and the fam!
Love to ya!
Earlier today, Becca came in to get her haircut and one of the other stylists made a comments about someone being stubborn . . And at that moment everything just rushed back to me. September 22,2008 was a day monticello felt such an impact . For me, i saw everything. Every night for a whole month i sat there every night with a play back of the accident going through my mind. I remember standing there that day arguing with a man about who was in that truck. I didnt want to believe it was him but i kept telling the man , yes thats Rooster. I have never in my life seen so many people be at a hospital at one time. I hate that the last memory i have of him is watching everything end for him but then i sit back and think about all the nights in ameca parking lot, racing to redlights, and walking down the halls at MHS. He was truly loved by many & will for sure never be forgotten.
To this day I still think about ROOSTER. The wonderful impact he made on my life, i miss his jokes he use to tell me to make me laugh till i cryed and I look back now instead of crying I laugh about the good times! I didn’t know if people still read this and I just wanted to let the family know eventhough all this time rooster has passed I still pray for y’all and always will and sometimes I catch myself praying to rooster but y’all are still in my prayers!
Love
Kristin
It’s that time of year again. Time seems to pass by so fast. It certainly doesn’t feel like this will be our third Christmas without you. I am not sure but coming to this sight and writing at special times seem to help. We miss you so much and nothing can or will ever be able to fill that place in my heart. I hold on to the memories and our faith. You know our family Christmas traditions and our tree was always up after Thanksgiving. This year time almost caught up but thanks to your sister it is up and bright. The hanging of the stockings were tough but we keep pushing forward. Becca misses you so much! She would love to have you here to talk with. She misses your talks and laughs when you would come in from your dates and just sit in her room “being her big brother”. I know you are in better hands and place, My heart still aches and the tears still come but I keep looking up and keep the faith. Holding on to the memories that GOD allowed me and others to make while you were with us helps ease the pain. The Christmas eve nights at Granny’s putting together all the “special surprises” santa brought to the younger family members. When Christmas morning came and the kids got up and were surprised at what “santa” brought them but in five minutes of playing with the battery operated toys they wouldn’t go. Why you ask because, the night before you and your Uncles would play with EVERYTHING and have the batteries ran down. You guys had just as much fun as the little ones. It time for me to go. Merry Christmas son! I love you forever and always,Momma