A Legacy... Lost

There comes a time in everyone’s life when they meet someone that moves them to the very core. An individual that embodies every positive aura known to man and beyond. One who exudes genuine kindness; tender and loving to the point where you can feel it when they walk into the room. You don’t meet many of these people if you ever meet one at all.

Like so many others in our small bustling town, I was lucky enough to not only meet such a man, but get to know him and his wonderful family. His name was Kelly Pates. Kelly would lighten up a room when he walked through the door. Kelly knew no stranger, in fact, he would drive miles to help a complete stranger. Kelly blessed and touched so many souls it defies imagination and comprehension.

For those that knew Kelly also know Kelly had a divine gift. Kelly was a passionate musician. All my life, I have known deep inside that music was the one energy that was incorruptible and pure. Many people poses the power to control music and bring it to the hearts of many, but only a very select few have the power to deliver it so eloquently that it would whelp a tear in a grown mans eye or silence a newborns hungry cry. Kelly possessed such a gift and shared it with so many.

Kelly didn’t have one selfish bone in his body. He was a loving husband and father. He was a teacher and mentor to so many, including myself, and a wonderful friend to all. I don’t think I ever saw Kelly without a smile on his face. Kelly loved life and all the people in it. He was a patient and loving man that so many people loved and respected.

Yesterday we lost this amazing man. Our hearts are heavy and our eyes swollen. Nothing on earth could ever replace Kelly or the acts of generosity he committed daily. He will be missed by so many for so long. Our hearts pour out to his family, a family that has been through so much. Kelly, my brother, you ARE a legacy and we will not ever forget you and the gift you shared with all of us. I sit here heartbroken wishing I were half the man you were. In your honor we should all strive to try to live by the example you set for all of us.

Kelly is no doubt looking down on us all completely torn up inside because of the heartache he sees shared by so many during this sad day. But I do know what Kelly’s words would be right now… “Hey, You guys cheer up and lets all do a shot of Jegarmeister”… as he grabbed his guitar and lit into “Love the One Your With”.

Kelly, we love you brother. You are a true Legacy. Shine on you crazy diamond!