A Tribute to My Dad
by Tabby Biddle
My dear dad, Wharton Biddle, passed away peacefully in his home in Jamestown, Rhode Island on Monday evening, with loved ones by his side. He was 92.
We were all lucky to have been able to see him and share our final words, as we knew the time was coming. He died gently and with grace, much as he lived his life.
With my Dad on my wedding day.
My dad was an artist, painter, writer, wood sculptor, inventor and all around creative guy. He was also a loving husband, father, grandfather and friend to many. He loved nature, gardening, traveling, golf, sailing and tennis. He wrote and illustrated an adorable children’s book entitled The Story of Timmy Sprite, which I must say is one of my pride and joys. : )
My Dad at his home in Jamestown, Rhode Island reading “The Story of Timmy Sprite” to my son.
People have described my dad as “an elegant man,” “one of the world’s true gentlemen,” “unflappably kind,” “a gentle soul,” “graceful,” “creative,” “quietly generous,” ““sincere,” “easy-going,” “relaxed,” and more. These are just some of his many wonderful attributes. He will be dearly missed.
With my Dad and my brothers and Dad’s 90th birthday celebration.
My Dad at our family’s beloved rocks in Jamestown, Rhode Island.
Some of you knew my dad. Others of you have heard me talk about him over the years. And many of you are likely hearing about my dad for the first time today. If that is you, I thank you for reading this far in my email.
What I’m learning in this grieving process is to allow spaciousness to feel the feelings, rest, take it easy, be gentle with myself, and know that the grieving comes in waves.
Whether you’ve lost a loved one, a relationship, a job, a home, a lifestyle, or anything else special to you — as so many of us have over this past year — I think these same principles apply:
Feel the feelings.
Rest.
Take it easy.
Be gentle with yourself.
Know that the grieving comes in waves.
Thank you for honoring my dad with me today.
I wish you peace, good health and safety as we all navigate these intense times.
With love,
