Willie and I were by her bedside as she breathed her last breath.
About an hour after her passing I went back into her room. There was the sweetest smile on her face! Yet another precious gift from Him.
Walking by Faith
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
"I'll Fly Away", says the little byrdie.
Lydia has always been an early byrd. She left for Home early this morning. She was escorted into the presence of her Savior.
Willie and I were by her bedside as she breathed her last breath.
About an hour after her passing I went back into her room. There was the sweetest smile on her face! Yet another precious gift from Him.
Willie and I were by her bedside as she breathed her last breath.
About an hour after her passing I went back into her room. There was the sweetest smile on her face! Yet another precious gift from Him.
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Hope you find comfort in the Lord during this difficult time. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.
ReplyDeletemy thoughts and prayers will be with your family over the next few weeks because this will be very hard for you all. I hope you find peace and understanding during this time.. Most of all i need to tell you all how much you have touched my heart with your faith in God. You have also made me see that i need to tell everyone that i love them as they may not be here tomorrow. That being said i love all the Byrds in the nest and the one in heaven.
ReplyDeleteStacey, I have been following your journey over the past two years... woke up with Lydia on my mind, began praying for your precious family... praying now that God would wrap your family in his love and peace that surpasses all understanding, heaven has been blessed with a beautiful angel this morning...
ReplyDeleteI just found your blog this morning through a friend. I couldn't stop weeping as I read your story. I'm thankful for the peace that you have in Jesus. I will be praying for continued peace for you and your family.
ReplyDeletePraying for your family!! The day our son, Miles, went to be with our savior we now call that day his "Heaven Day." Every year on Miles' Heaven day, we do something special together as a family (take a trip, go on a special outing.) It makes the day such a sweet day for our family. We also try to do something good for others in Miles' memory on that day (just random acts of kindness to strangers.) We are so grateful God chose us to be Miles' parents, even if it was much shorter than we ever expected it to be.
ReplyDeletePraying, praying, praying!
You don't know me,I am Stacy - a wife and Mommy in Oklahoma with a sweet husband and children of my own. I found your blog last week through a link sent to me by a friend. Today, please just know that we are the Smiths, standing with the Byrds. May His glorious presence be real to you today, may His arms cover your shoulders, and may His peace enter into each crack and crevice of the hours and minutes (Phil 4:7)of the days and weeks ahead. Lydia's feet have brought the BEST news to our family....and our journey is changed because of yours.
ReplyDeletePraying very hard for God to comfort your hearts throughout this time. I honestly cannot imagine, but thank you for being a blessing and encouragement to me to always seek Him, even in times of heartache. I pray you feel God's arms around you when you need him most. Nahum 1:7Praying very hard for God to comfort your hearts throughout this time. I honestly cannot imagine, but thank you for being a blessing and encouragement to me to always seek Him, even in times of heartache. I pray you feel God's arms around you when you need him most. Nahum 1:7
ReplyDeleteMay we forever be mindful of the peace and comfort that comes from our Savior. Thank you for sharing your journey . It has touched my life . I have been reading your blog from a post of a friend. May you find comfort in your loss.
ReplyDeleteMy heart breaks for your loss of your precious Lydia. I pray for God's peace and comfort for you all as you continue this journey.
ReplyDeleteIt truly amazes me, how one person, whom you've never met can touch your life. Lydia, for me, is one of them. I was brought here by my dear cousin. Your story..her story, has brought me down & lifted me up. I can't imagine the pain of losing a child, but I know that HE is there to wrap you in HIS love. Memories of her will be your treasure & her love will live on in those that 'knew' her.
ReplyDeleteYour sweet Lydia was definitely the good seed that fell on different ground, and taught us all so much as we watched her grow in her faith!! Thank you so very much again for sharing this journey with us all. And Lydia, thank you so much for teaching us how to simply walk in faith! Stacey, you and your family will continue to remain in my prayers, and in the prayers of so many whose lives have been touched so sweetly by Lydia's journey! She's dancing with her Prince now. May God continue to comfort all of you in the days ahead!
ReplyDeletePrayers for all your family. Having also experience the death of a child, I can almost feel your pain and also the peace you feel that comes only from Jesus Christ. Your faithfulness amazes me and I pray that your faithfulness with continue to fill you life when you experience those inevitable lonely moments that are to come. Hang on to your precious memories. Love in Christ Jesus our Lord.
ReplyDeleteStacey and Willie,
ReplyDeleteI was catching up on your blog early this morning and my wife just told me of your loss. Lydia's story touched many of us and will continue to, and your faith is an inspiration to us all.
You're in our thoughts and prayers,
Bill and Elizabeth Bunting
Sharon introduced me to your blog a few months ago and I am so blessed to have been touched by Lydia's wisdom and your faithfulness. He works such miracles. I will continue to lift you up to the same Savior holding her hand right now. God's peace be with you, and lots of hugs.
ReplyDelete~Faye from NC
She is with the Lord now. You story and your family are amazing. Reading this gave me chills, as we are neighbors who have never met...I actually live in Crowne Village apartments. If you ever need anything, don't hesitate to call. 8043071157. My name is Brittany.
ReplyDeleteIt is my prayer that you feel our Father's arms wrapped around you all as He carries you through the days to come.
ReplyDelete{here from Reagan's blog}...prayers and blessings and mercy to your precious family; may the God of all Comfort comfort you.
ReplyDeletelove Jen at www.diaryof1.com
Praying for comfort for your family during this time. Your faith is truly inspiring to myself and to others.
ReplyDeleteOur family continues to pray for yours during this difficult time. May the God of ALL comfort comfort you with His never-failing love, grace, peace and strength. May you continue to lift Him up and glorify Him in the days ahead.
ReplyDeletepraying for your family...what a beautiful girl with a beautiful testimony.
ReplyDeleteAs I have read your blog I am continued to be inspired and awed by your faith through these trials...thank you for living out your theology. There is not much to say that you don't already know so I wanted to share a song with you (I put it on the mix I made for you all and the Sneads)
ReplyDeleteIt is not death to die
To leave this weary road
And join the saints who dwell on high
Who’ve found their home with God
It is not death to close
The eyes long dimmed by tears
And wake in joy before Your throne
Delivered from our fears
O Jesus, conquering the grave
Your precious blood has power to save
Those who trust in You
Will in Your mercy find
That it is not death to die
It is not death to fling
Aside this earthly dust
And rise with strong and noble wing
To live among the just
It is not death to hear
The key unlock the door
That sets us free from mortal years
To praise You evermore
So sorry to read about the loss of your precious daughter. I will be praying for your family
ReplyDeleteI don't know you personally but i'm sorry for your loss. May God be with you always! <3
ReplyDeleteYour daughter is a true miracle and a true inspiration. Your family is permantley placed in my heart. Your story has touched my heart so very deeply. I pray for comfort and peace for your family. I pray God touches your hearts to ease your sorrows.
ReplyDeleteJesus, I ask you to lift this family up, I ask you to walk with them in their time of need. I ask you to take away their heavy hearts. Bring peace and healing to this family. IN Jesus's name I pray, amen.
Just came across your blog through a friend's FB wall. Praying that the Lord will carry you through at this extremely difficult time. So glad you will see Lydia again.
ReplyDeleteWe are friends of the Painters and they shared you blog with us the past few weeks. Thank you so much for these posts. You have been a blessing to so many. May God bless you and grant you peace during this time. We have been and will be praying for you.
ReplyDeletePraying for your family....what an inspiration to and witness of God's love your family is. Rejoicing in the fact that your sweet little girl is safe and pain free now, but sadden for the heartache you must be feeling.
ReplyDeleteWe are praying for you and your family for the days ahead. You will be safe in His arms He will carry you through. My son went to be with the Lord in 1993. His name is David and he also had a brain tumor. You have been such an inspiration through your blog and your life showing God's glory through every step of your journey. Thankful that one day you will see your little girl again in heaven. God Bless you and give you his perfect peace.
ReplyDeleteLydia's story is having a profound impact on people around the country and even around the world. Your testimony is bringing the Love and Mercy of God into homes of both believers and unbelievers. God is being glorified through your struggle. Seeds are being planted and great things will bloom from this. Thank you for sharing your journey with all of us. May God bless and comfort you while you grieve for your loss and celebrate your beautiful daughter's journey home to The Savior.
ReplyDeleteI first heard of your story this morning. I pray that the "peace that passes all understanding" remain in your hearts, and the hearts of all of those who were blessed to have known and continue to love your dear Lydia.
ReplyDelete~With Love...
I am so heartbroken for you all. Lydia's spirit is so beautiful and will continue to touch and inspire people. As I put on my "heart necklace" this morning, I thought, I will wear this for Lydia today. A little while later I learned she is now with Jesus. Stacey, thank you for sharing your faith with so many and Lydia's journey also. You have given me a different outlook on the journey that my son is now going through. I know that God will continue to give you peace and comfort. Continued prayers and love to all of you....
ReplyDeleteYour family is in my thoughts and prayers. I can't imagine saying good bye to a child and my heart breaks for you. I hope there is some comfort knowing that she has touched many lives through this blog. I found out about it from a posting on Facebook last night and have shared it with others today. We all hold out children a little closer as a new Angel is entering heaven. God bless you and your family.
ReplyDeleteYou are in my thoughts and prayers. Your faith has been an inspiration to me and countless others. So glad Lydia is not in pain any more. May the God of comfort hold you all in His hands as you learn to live life without her. Thank you for sharing this journey with us.
ReplyDeleteDebbie, MA
I'm the sister to Natalie Wood and I visit them and the church at least once, if not twice a month. I learned about Lydia not long ago and sorry to hear of her passing. I'm happy to know that she is with her Savior and no longer in pain. My prayers will continue to be with you and your dear family. May God's loving arms embrace you daily; may He be the source of your comfort in this difficult time.
ReplyDeleteBecky Leung
I am Ashley Letchworth's and Allie Lloyd's second cousin in Australia. I came to follow Lydia's journey Home with interest and prayer. I lost my mom two years ago, and as much as I miss her, I would not begrudge her one moment with her saviour and her son, who died before I was born. Think of her as she is, whole, complete and without pain. You will be with her soon I am certain. How long can Jesus tarry? Even so come Lord Jesus.
ReplyDeleteJonathan
Byrd family, know that even though we have never met, your story, Lydia's story touches my heart and reminds me of why I believe in the Gospel and why its important to share that good news every single day. Thank you for sharing your story and thank you for being faithful to the reality and love of the Gospel. Christ truly brings peace and the world is a better place because you have shared. I believe the Lord still has big things for Lydia even as the angels rejoice with her in heaven. I believe that He will continue to be glorified through your blog and the stories you share about sweet Lydia. Praying for you and praying that many people will read and realize the love and grace the Lord has for His children.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteI am a friend of Sammie Starr. I just want to thank you for being so beautifully transparent in this blog. I am in tears and so blessed by your walk with Jesus throughout Lydia's journey. Your constant use of God's Word has ministered to my own heart. I can see God's grace, comfort and strength through your family. Please know that even in this sad time - your family is ministering to many that you may never even meet this side of heaven. I will be praying for you as you enter into this next chapter of life. Thank you again for being so faithful to Jesus!
ReplyDeleteStacee, your faith during your family's heartbreaking journey has been amazing. I am glad your angel is no longer suffering and is dancing with our sweet Lord. I am praying for you and Willie and for God's strength in the days to come. Alison Merritt
ReplyDeleteMy heart aches at the news of Lydia's passing today. While we've never met, and it's been 20+ years since I've roamed high school halls with Willie, I can only imagine the pain you and your family are experiencing right now. While I'm not a spiritual person, your faith and story inspire me to make the most of every minute and take nothing for granted. Peace be unto you.
ReplyDeletePatrick Sutton
Williamston, NC
You don't know me, but I've been following your story for quite some time now. I started earlier this year following your group on facebook. I haven't been keeping up as much as usual, but, today when I got up there I saw your blog that was posted today about Lydia passing and I couldn't help but to sit at my desk at work and cry. I am amazed at the faith your family has right now. I hope that one day I can be as strong as you and your family. I have a 4 year old of my own and I could never imagine going through what you and your family have been through. I didn't know Lydia but she had to have been one amazing little girl! I just wanted you and your family to know that I am praying for all of you and praying that you all keep your strong faith during this time in your life! How truely inspirational you all are! God Bless you!
ReplyDeleteI go to Colonial Baptist in Cary and teach Hearts, Hands, and Voices to 3 year olds. A little girl walked up with her mom and tears eyed told Pam that Lydia had died today. Pam quickly reminded them that Lydia is now in heaven. I overheard this and didn't know you but upon browsing FB came across a link to your blog where some people had indicated Lydia was in the kindergarten class they taught. I just spent the last few hours reading your blog. While I do have two little ones, I cannot even begin to imagine what your family is going through. I want to let you know that there are individuals at Colonial who kept you in their thoughts and prayers today.
ReplyDeleteDearest Stacey, you and your precious family are in our prayers.
ReplyDelete~Anna Ralston-Kerrigan
Stacey, family & friends - while I do not know you.. this young heart or Lydia indeed touched 1,000s during this earth journey and courage faith filled past 2 years. A sincere moment of honor and silence for sharing Lydia's love for God and granting us far and near to know her faith.
ReplyDeletePeace & Light..
-Jeff
Today, I am humbled.
ReplyDeleteI came across your blog yesterday, which I'm sure was a day wrought with indescribable pain, but also the comfort that Lydia is now Home. I was awed, inspired, and truly touched by your faith throughout this entire ordeal. Through this blog, Lydia was able to touch more hearts and souls than you will probably ever know. Mine being one of them. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
ReplyDeleteMy famiy's thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. Your faith in God has been a witness to me. Find comfort in knowing that Lydia is safe in God's hands free of pain.
ReplyDeleteLike many others I've never had the honor of meeting your family or Lydia. But I did have the privilege of following your blog. Thank you for being willing to share Lydia's story with us and your journey through this valley. Your faith has been an inspiration to many. God used and continues to use Lydia to share the gospel of Jesus Christ.
ReplyDeleteMy wife and I lost our first daughter Abigail when she was only 5 months old. Every story is different and unique, but we know the pain of losing a child. I pray He will comfort you just as He did us. You will truly be safe in His arms.
1 Thessalonians 4:13-18. We don't grieve like the world. We have a hope, a promise from our heavenly Father, we will be reunited one day.
May God bless you as Lydia has blessed so many. Though I don't know you - I think God chose the best possible parents for Lydia's journey. Your family will continue to be in our prayers!
ReplyDeletePrayers are with you and your family from me, I found your blog "by accident", although there are no accidentd really. You are a pillar of strentgh to so many people and one the greatest demonstrations of God's power that I have seen in my lifetime. I hate that you have to deal with the pain of not having Lydia in your arms anymore. But thank you so raising such a godly little girl while you had her.
ReplyDeletePraying for your family during this difficult time and in the months ahead. I am so sorry for your loss, but rejoice that little Lydia is now in the glory of heaven with Jesus. What a great example your family has been to so many people. God bless!
ReplyDeleteI found your blog randomly, and I want you to know that my heart breaks for your family. Bittersweetly, though, I am rejoicing with you as well that your daughter is with our God and is no longer in pain. The loss of her life on earth is still very difficult to bear, and I don't pretend for a second that this is an easy thing for you, nor is it something that I claim to fully understand. But I am weeping and rejoicing with you as you go through this season.
ReplyDeletePraying for you and your family. My heart is breaking for you, but I know that is not what you would want. A celebration is what you would prefer I think. Lydia was such a special little girl, or should I say "young lady!" We only knew her for a very short time, but what a special time we were so blessed and lucky to have been in her presence. Your faith, unbelievable strength, and your perfectly put words are such an inspiration. The memories you have created for your family are priceless. I know Lydia is now home and in such a wonderful, perfect place! May she run...jump...smile as much as possible with her beautiful smile...and be free!!! Love to you guys:)
ReplyDeleteAs many on here, I do not know you and your family personally, but I do know the father you call out to. Your blog and the story you have shared has shown me how important faith is and how HE is the one who is in control. He knows us better than we know ourselves and he will lead us to a home that is better than here on Earth! Through your words I feel I have met one of the strongest mothers, friends, and most importantly, child of God! Thank you for sharing your family's story. All of you Byrds are an inspiration and I pray you feel comfort in his presence, for he is always with you!
ReplyDeleteKatie
Greenville, NC
I do not know your family either. I came across your blog through another blog who asked for prayers for your family. I can't imagine what you and your family must be going through. My heart is absolutely breaking for you but your faith is such an inspiration to me. Lydia is beautiful. Sending thoughts and prayers your way.
ReplyDeleteHannah
Chicago, IL
Such a beautiful little girl, and how blessed the world is to have known her for even such a short time. The strength of Christ that you have allowed Him to show through you is amazing, and I pray that He will continue to comfort you in this time. There's another girl who just died, Jasmine Uhl, and I can't help but imagine that your little angel was waiting for her in heaven just a few days before, ready to welcome her home. Prayers to you all, and condolences and (please don't take this the wrong way) congratulations for the welcoming of one of yours into the Kingdom of no sorrow and endless joy.
ReplyDeleteI linked to your story here:http://mommyprincessof2.wordpress.com/2011/11/01/november-is-full-of-thanks/ I hope that is OK and also want you to know that I am Sharon's cousin. Your story has touched my heart and it is a beautiful story of God's love for his children. We will continue to pray for you. I did not see a contact area so that is why I am posting here.
ReplyDeleteYour faith in Him is amazing and inspiring. You make me want to be better and more appreciative of the life that I think is so hectic. These are the moments and they should be cherished. Thank you for helping me see that. God Bless you and your family.
ReplyDelete