[Fare Thee Well My Honey]

Greg, Michelle, Morgan, and Madison,

This is the toughest post I have ever written, but I offer these thoughts and observations in the spirit of continued support. First, let me say that Brian's eulogy not only was perfectly conceived, like Tara, but also imparted graciously. Once again your family rose above its pain and grief to dignify Tara with heartfelt farewell sentiments and to leave those in attendance at her home-going service with an image of Tara that everyone will cherish, and no one will ever forget! You could not, and will not, have coped with this heartbreak without an astonishing amount of faith, family, and friends; all of whom were, and are, present for Tara and you.

There are three parts of Tara's home-going that I shall never forget. First, after saying my so-longs to Tara at the funeral parlor, I turned to walk to the exit, and when I passed your family, Greg declared to me, "Thank you, Steve." Second, in the church's parking lot amidst the hundreds of people, Greg came up to me, took my hand, gave me a big hug, and said, "Hey, did ya see Bix?" Third, as a former seminarian and altar server, I cannot recall a more loving and honest celebration of the Eucharist, "the perfect sacrifice", as the congregants, lector, Eucharistic minister, and priest, through their words and tears, poured out their love, appreciation, and support of your family as well as seemed to bond ever closer and more perfectly with God and Tara. The strength, love, and dignity your family displayed through this ordeal is inspirational!!!

I never met Tara before yesterday, but somehow I seemed to have known her, even if it was only vicariously. Maybe it was through your family's profound openness, honesty, courage, and lovingness that allowed me to feel elated by Tara's and your successes and devastated by her passing. Know, for whatever it is worth, that no life or series of events in recent years has unsettled me more or inspired me to do better!

Thank you Stouts for being who you are and for allowing me the privilege of getting to know your "Angel"!!!

May the grace and peace of God be with you always!

Jersey Steve

PS The musical arrangement at the home-going service, I believe, was as follows: Bach prelude, Here I am Lord, Morning has Broken, Ave Maria, On Eagles' Wings, Song of Farewell, and Amazing Grace. Nicely intergrated!!!

[Fare Thee Well My Honey]

Thanks Looky!!! God willing I'll be there Monday.

Peace

Just received this from Greg should anyone be in the area:

Subject: Tara

Viewing - Sunday, September 30, 2007 2pm to 4pm and 7pm to 9pm

Carmen F. Spezzi Funeral Home

15 Cherry Lane

Parlin, NJ 08859

Funeral Services - Monday, October 1, 2007 9am from the Funeral Home

Followed by a 10am mass at Saint Mary of Ostrabrama Church

Jackson Street

South River, NJ 08882

With burial to follow at Saint Mary's Cemetery

Cranbury Road

East Brunswick, NJ 08816

[Fare Thee Well My Honey]

Greg,

Peace be to you and your family; and, know that you are most certainly in Yraida's and my thoughts and prayers.

If you are able to post whether there will be a private or public service, we would respond in kind with as much love and support possible.

May the grace and peace of our God be with you!

Jersey Steve