My Dad was born in Grady Hospital to Lilla Muse Meeks and John Meeks on February 21, 1934. The only one of his brothers born in a hospital. His mother was visiting her sister in Atlanta on the day he was born. She always said he was the only anniversary present she ever got.
A graduate of Villa Rica High School Class of 1954, he married his high school sweetheart Jeanette Smith on April 10, 1954. The couple married secretly as schools didn't allow married couples to attend school. They were thinking he would be drafted after school.
They went to McKoy road in Douglas County with witnesses Nancy Wix and Melvin Sudduth (who also married secretly). After they were married they had dinner at the Rock Inn Cafe near Winston, which was a drive-in back in the day.
He was a football legend in our small town, as he was inducted into the VRHS Football Hall of Fame in 2010, just a few weeks after his hospital stay for heart surgery.
He was a musical talent and had a beautiful tenor voice. He sang with the Glee Club in school, and continued singing with a quartet and as a soloist all through his adult life. He was in the FFA quartet with members Bobby Butler, Charles Dial and Bobby Keaton and Carolyn Boyd was the pianist...they competed in 1953 and 1954.
He was a carpenter, building houses, raised a garden, horses and cattle, and later worked as a salesman for Upchurch, Chris Huber Chevrolet, Don-Rich Ford and B&A Building Supply. It had been said he could do the work of two men.
He enjoyed golf with his friends on his day off and later competed at church fundraiser, winning longest drive, on one occasion. He collected Coca Cola memorabilia, coins and pocket knives.
Spending time with his family and friends was always at the top of his list. Whether horseback riding, fishing, camping at Lake Allatoona, water skiing and boating, or taking family vacations to the beach, the mountains and even going to visit his brother in California. He always took pride in his home and kept his yard manicured like a golf course.
He and Jeanette were honored with a 50th anniversary celebration, at Flat Rock Baptist Church, given by their children on April 10, 2004. They enjoyed a trip to Washington DC for their anniversary with their son.
He loved to eat; some of his favorite foods included turnip greens, corn bread, fried catfish, ice cream and candy, especially chocolate and snickers. He is a life long member of Flat Rock Baptist Church, was a member of the Adult Choir, a soloist, and was a faithful member of the Senior Men's Sunday School class as long as his health allowed. He was also a lifelong member of the Carroll County Coin Club.
He is survived by his children, Mike Meeks and Connie Meeks Duffey (Tom); and his grandchildren Adam Meeks and Emery Duffey, one brother Hugh Meeks of Alabama, and a host of extended relatives.
He was predeceased by his mother and father Lilla Louella Muse Meeks and John Sidney Meeks, and his brothers Delmas, Bud, George, William, Hubert, JC and Charles.
He is the best Dad anyone could ever have and I have always been so proud to call him MY Dad! My life is forever changed without him. Connie
---------------------------------------------------
How Far He Wishes He Could Run
EMERY DUFFEY·SATURDAY, DECEMBER 26, 2015
It doesn't matter how far he wishes he could run
Those two legs won't carry him as far as they used to
Sad but true
Because his feet seem too damn small to keep him steady
And his bones become jelly
And his muscles turn to concrete
Wet and slick enough for him to slip on
If he moves too quickly
It doesn't matter how far he wishes he could run
Each time he rises from a simple chair
Could lead to a potential downfall
A crashing onto carpeted floor
And another bruise that will loom
People will forget about him
Asking only about the blossoming blues and purples
That stretch their petals across skin that crumples
Like tissue paper
It doesn't matter how far he wishes he could run
His body is the earth
And each tectonic plate that holds it together
Experiences constant earthquakes
And what did he do in his life or past life
To deserve such a sentence?
Nothing.
It doesn't matter how far he wishes he could run
Or where he'd like to travel
Or how he wishes he could escape
His words run together like the white and yellow
Of fried eggs he used to love
His body overheats and steams
Like his coffee
His mouth just can't seem to form words
The way cookie cutters make perfect shapes
And food?
That thing which he loved and enjoyed dearly?
It's turned into oatmeal, sugarless candies, nonfried foods, etc.
It's as bland as he appears
It doesn't matter how far he wishes he could run
Even if the high school football star still lurks within
Coming back during restless nights
When he seizes up into a tight ball
And his bedroom melts away
Perhaps this is now his only escape?
Maybe he can enjoy these travels back in time
It doesn't matter how far he wishes he could run
His eyes see things that may or may not exist
He may mention these things to those around him
A coyote or a small animal on his lap
Or even a gaping hole in the floor
Or an thief in the night lurking in his house
That he can neither see nor touch
But he'll fight with the last of his strength if need be
It doesn't matter how far he wishes he could run
Words on the tip of his tongue
Come out twisted
He means to call one name, but says another
Or even nothing at all
The dead walk around him
But others cannot see
It doesn't matter how far he wishes he could run
He thinks as his body entraps who he is
The 'me,' 'I,' and 'myself'
Engulfed in a cage that eats his smiles
Leaving only a flat expression in family pictures
He's happy, oh, he's happy
That you are here with him
If only he could tell you
And smile for you
Or say your name with glee
It doesn't matter how far he wishes he could run
Because, as you can see
His body separates now
From who he is
Because he still is the way you remember him
And hears and registers every word of frustration or confusion you speak
But you often forget that his body is not the equivalent of him
No, his identity hasn't disappeared
It doesn't matter how far he wishes he could run
Or how many touchdowns he made in the past
Or how many hula hoops he rescued from rooftops
Or how many horses he rode or cows he sold
Or how many buildings he has built
Or fences he's mended
What matters to him now
What would mean the most
Is if you could see he's still there
Behind the mask of his condition
His body makes him stuck and unable to move
But he still exists as himself despite his shell
If only you can see that
If only you can help him bring that to surface from his cage
If only you can see through the darkened forest
Of things he sees that don't exist
And nonsense phrases like, "Do you ever feel slouchy?"
And flat expression or soft voice or body-shaking earthquakes
He's still there
And he can't run from his own body
But he can escape if you find him
If you still see him there
And pull him back to the present with you
You haven't lost him just yet
As long as he hasn't lost you
Do you see him, now?
Funeral service:
Dr. Jerry T. Brown, minister
Music by Harold G. Meeks (two songs, taped)
Beulah Land by Mike Meeks
Poem-How He Wishes He Could Run by Emery Duffey
Pallbearers: Hugh Meeks, Adam Meeks, Emery Duffey, Tom Duffey, Steve Meeks and Don Meeks
obituary by Connie Meeks Duffey
Remembering Daddy's favorite things:
he loved all movies by John Wayne
Andy Griffith as Andy and Matlock
Dallas with JR, Dynasty and Knots Landing
Hee Haw with all the music
always watched the Falcons and the Braves
listened to the Braves on the radio sitting in his swing
Wheel of Fortune, Jeopardy
Sanford and Son, he would act like Fred Sanford
The Lone Ranger and Roy Rogers shows
In the Heat of the Night and Archie Bunker...
MASH, Carol Burnette, all of the Peanuts holiday cartoon specials, Frosty the Snowman, Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, (which reminds me he always drove us around to see Christmas lights, the Hardy lights, even with the grandkids...
He loved to eat catfish at the Front Porch, Rio Vista, or anywhere and he loved to eat at the Cracker Barrel and playing checkers with his grandkids at the restaurant or at home)
He told us many times about picking cotton to pay $50 for his first car, a 1929 Chevrolet. When he got his license he was a designated driver for a business man in town that would give him money for food to wait for him till he came out of "a drinking place" and take him home.
A heart of gold stopped beating,
Hard working hands now rest.
God broke our hearts to prove to us
he only takes the best.
We think of you in silence,
we often speak your name,
all we have are memories,
your picture in a frame.
A million times we've thought of you,
a million times we've cried.
If love alone could have saved you,
you never would have died.
It broke our hearts to lose you,
but you didn't go alone.
For a part of us went with you
the day God took you home.
miss you every single day.....
on April 10, 2019 I woke remembering your last trip by the house from the funeral home, and how they paused in front of the house ....I have cried all day...missing you.
If tomorrow starts without me, and I'm not here to see,
If the sun should rise you find your eyes all filled with tears for me;
I wish so much you wouldn't cry the way you did today,
While thinking of the many things we didn't get to say.
I know how much you love me, as much as I love you
And each time that you think of me, I know you'll miss me too.
But when tomorrow starts without me please try to understand,
That an angel came and called my name and took me by the hand.
He said my place was ready, in heaven far above
And that I'd have to leave behind all those I dearly love.
But as I turned and walked away a tear fell from my eye.
For all my life I'd always thought, I didn't want to die.
I had so much to live for, so much left yet to do.
It seemed almost impossible that I was leaving you.
I thought of all the yesterdays the good ones and the bad.
I thought of all the love we shared, and all the fun we had.
If I could relive yesterday, just even for a while,
I'd say goodbye and kiss you and maybe see you smile.
But then I fully realized that this could never be,
For emptiness and memories would take the place of me.
When I thought of worldly things I might miss come tomorrow
I thought of you and when I did my heart was filled with sorrow.
When I walked through heavens gates I felt so much at home.
God looked down and smiled at me from his great golden throne
He said, "This is eternity and all I've promised you"
Today your life on earth has passed but here life starts anew.
I promise no tomorrow, but today will always last
And since each day is the same there's no longing for the past.
You have been so faithful so trusting and so true.
Though there were times you did some things you knew you shouldn't do.
You have been forgiven and now at last you're free.
So won't you come and take my hand and share my life with me?
So when tomorrow starts with out me don't think we're far apart,
For every time you think of me, I'm right here in your heart.
Author: David Romano
September 12, 2020.... still I miss you so much, brings me to tears...
A graduate of Villa Rica High School Class of 1954, he married his high school sweetheart Jeanette Smith on April 10, 1954. The couple married secretly as schools didn't allow married couples to attend school. They were thinking he would be drafted after school.
They went to McKoy road in Douglas County with witnesses Nancy Wix and Melvin Sudduth (who also married secretly). After they were married they had dinner at the Rock Inn Cafe near Winston, which was a drive-in back in the day.
He was a football legend in our small town, as he was inducted into the VRHS Football Hall of Fame in 2010, just a few weeks after his hospital stay for heart surgery.
He was a musical talent and had a beautiful tenor voice. He sang with the Glee Club in school, and continued singing with a quartet and as a soloist all through his adult life. He was in the FFA quartet with members Bobby Butler, Charles Dial and Bobby Keaton and Carolyn Boyd was the pianist...they competed in 1953 and 1954.
He was a carpenter, building houses, raised a garden, horses and cattle, and later worked as a salesman for Upchurch, Chris Huber Chevrolet, Don-Rich Ford and B&A Building Supply. It had been said he could do the work of two men.
He enjoyed golf with his friends on his day off and later competed at church fundraiser, winning longest drive, on one occasion. He collected Coca Cola memorabilia, coins and pocket knives.
Spending time with his family and friends was always at the top of his list. Whether horseback riding, fishing, camping at Lake Allatoona, water skiing and boating, or taking family vacations to the beach, the mountains and even going to visit his brother in California. He always took pride in his home and kept his yard manicured like a golf course.
He and Jeanette were honored with a 50th anniversary celebration, at Flat Rock Baptist Church, given by their children on April 10, 2004. They enjoyed a trip to Washington DC for their anniversary with their son.
He loved to eat; some of his favorite foods included turnip greens, corn bread, fried catfish, ice cream and candy, especially chocolate and snickers. He is a life long member of Flat Rock Baptist Church, was a member of the Adult Choir, a soloist, and was a faithful member of the Senior Men's Sunday School class as long as his health allowed. He was also a lifelong member of the Carroll County Coin Club.
He is survived by his children, Mike Meeks and Connie Meeks Duffey (Tom); and his grandchildren Adam Meeks and Emery Duffey, one brother Hugh Meeks of Alabama, and a host of extended relatives.
He was predeceased by his mother and father Lilla Louella Muse Meeks and John Sidney Meeks, and his brothers Delmas, Bud, George, William, Hubert, JC and Charles.
He is the best Dad anyone could ever have and I have always been so proud to call him MY Dad! My life is forever changed without him. Connie
---------------------------------------------------
How Far He Wishes He Could Run
EMERY DUFFEY·SATURDAY, DECEMBER 26, 2015
It doesn't matter how far he wishes he could run
Those two legs won't carry him as far as they used to
Sad but true
Because his feet seem too damn small to keep him steady
And his bones become jelly
And his muscles turn to concrete
Wet and slick enough for him to slip on
If he moves too quickly
It doesn't matter how far he wishes he could run
Each time he rises from a simple chair
Could lead to a potential downfall
A crashing onto carpeted floor
And another bruise that will loom
People will forget about him
Asking only about the blossoming blues and purples
That stretch their petals across skin that crumples
Like tissue paper
It doesn't matter how far he wishes he could run
His body is the earth
And each tectonic plate that holds it together
Experiences constant earthquakes
And what did he do in his life or past life
To deserve such a sentence?
Nothing.
It doesn't matter how far he wishes he could run
Or where he'd like to travel
Or how he wishes he could escape
His words run together like the white and yellow
Of fried eggs he used to love
His body overheats and steams
Like his coffee
His mouth just can't seem to form words
The way cookie cutters make perfect shapes
And food?
That thing which he loved and enjoyed dearly?
It's turned into oatmeal, sugarless candies, nonfried foods, etc.
It's as bland as he appears
It doesn't matter how far he wishes he could run
Even if the high school football star still lurks within
Coming back during restless nights
When he seizes up into a tight ball
And his bedroom melts away
Perhaps this is now his only escape?
Maybe he can enjoy these travels back in time
It doesn't matter how far he wishes he could run
His eyes see things that may or may not exist
He may mention these things to those around him
A coyote or a small animal on his lap
Or even a gaping hole in the floor
Or an thief in the night lurking in his house
That he can neither see nor touch
But he'll fight with the last of his strength if need be
It doesn't matter how far he wishes he could run
Words on the tip of his tongue
Come out twisted
He means to call one name, but says another
Or even nothing at all
The dead walk around him
But others cannot see
It doesn't matter how far he wishes he could run
He thinks as his body entraps who he is
The 'me,' 'I,' and 'myself'
Engulfed in a cage that eats his smiles
Leaving only a flat expression in family pictures
He's happy, oh, he's happy
That you are here with him
If only he could tell you
And smile for you
Or say your name with glee
It doesn't matter how far he wishes he could run
Because, as you can see
His body separates now
From who he is
Because he still is the way you remember him
And hears and registers every word of frustration or confusion you speak
But you often forget that his body is not the equivalent of him
No, his identity hasn't disappeared
It doesn't matter how far he wishes he could run
Or how many touchdowns he made in the past
Or how many hula hoops he rescued from rooftops
Or how many horses he rode or cows he sold
Or how many buildings he has built
Or fences he's mended
What matters to him now
What would mean the most
Is if you could see he's still there
Behind the mask of his condition
His body makes him stuck and unable to move
But he still exists as himself despite his shell
If only you can see that
If only you can help him bring that to surface from his cage
If only you can see through the darkened forest
Of things he sees that don't exist
And nonsense phrases like, "Do you ever feel slouchy?"
And flat expression or soft voice or body-shaking earthquakes
He's still there
And he can't run from his own body
But he can escape if you find him
If you still see him there
And pull him back to the present with you
You haven't lost him just yet
As long as he hasn't lost you
Do you see him, now?
Funeral service:
Dr. Jerry T. Brown, minister
Music by Harold G. Meeks (two songs, taped)
Beulah Land by Mike Meeks
Poem-How He Wishes He Could Run by Emery Duffey
Pallbearers: Hugh Meeks, Adam Meeks, Emery Duffey, Tom Duffey, Steve Meeks and Don Meeks
obituary by Connie Meeks Duffey
Remembering Daddy's favorite things:
he loved all movies by John Wayne
Andy Griffith as Andy and Matlock
Dallas with JR, Dynasty and Knots Landing
Hee Haw with all the music
always watched the Falcons and the Braves
listened to the Braves on the radio sitting in his swing
Wheel of Fortune, Jeopardy
Sanford and Son, he would act like Fred Sanford
The Lone Ranger and Roy Rogers shows
In the Heat of the Night and Archie Bunker...
MASH, Carol Burnette, all of the Peanuts holiday cartoon specials, Frosty the Snowman, Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, (which reminds me he always drove us around to see Christmas lights, the Hardy lights, even with the grandkids...
He loved to eat catfish at the Front Porch, Rio Vista, or anywhere and he loved to eat at the Cracker Barrel and playing checkers with his grandkids at the restaurant or at home)
He told us many times about picking cotton to pay $50 for his first car, a 1929 Chevrolet. When he got his license he was a designated driver for a business man in town that would give him money for food to wait for him till he came out of "a drinking place" and take him home.
A heart of gold stopped beating,
Hard working hands now rest.
God broke our hearts to prove to us
he only takes the best.
We think of you in silence,
we often speak your name,
all we have are memories,
your picture in a frame.
A million times we've thought of you,
a million times we've cried.
If love alone could have saved you,
you never would have died.
It broke our hearts to lose you,
but you didn't go alone.
For a part of us went with you
the day God took you home.
miss you every single day.....
on April 10, 2019 I woke remembering your last trip by the house from the funeral home, and how they paused in front of the house ....I have cried all day...missing you.
If tomorrow starts without me, and I'm not here to see,
If the sun should rise you find your eyes all filled with tears for me;
I wish so much you wouldn't cry the way you did today,
While thinking of the many things we didn't get to say.
I know how much you love me, as much as I love you
And each time that you think of me, I know you'll miss me too.
But when tomorrow starts without me please try to understand,
That an angel came and called my name and took me by the hand.
He said my place was ready, in heaven far above
And that I'd have to leave behind all those I dearly love.
But as I turned and walked away a tear fell from my eye.
For all my life I'd always thought, I didn't want to die.
I had so much to live for, so much left yet to do.
It seemed almost impossible that I was leaving you.
I thought of all the yesterdays the good ones and the bad.
I thought of all the love we shared, and all the fun we had.
If I could relive yesterday, just even for a while,
I'd say goodbye and kiss you and maybe see you smile.
But then I fully realized that this could never be,
For emptiness and memories would take the place of me.
When I thought of worldly things I might miss come tomorrow
I thought of you and when I did my heart was filled with sorrow.
When I walked through heavens gates I felt so much at home.
God looked down and smiled at me from his great golden throne
He said, "This is eternity and all I've promised you"
Today your life on earth has passed but here life starts anew.
I promise no tomorrow, but today will always last
And since each day is the same there's no longing for the past.
You have been so faithful so trusting and so true.
Though there were times you did some things you knew you shouldn't do.
You have been forgiven and now at last you're free.
So won't you come and take my hand and share my life with me?
So when tomorrow starts with out me don't think we're far apart,
For every time you think of me, I'm right here in your heart.
Author: David Romano
September 12, 2020.... still I miss you so much, brings me to tears...
My Dad was born in Grady Hospital to Lilla Muse Meeks and John Meeks on February 21, 1934. The only one of his brothers born in a hospital. His mother was visiting her sister in Atlanta on the day he was born. She always said he was the only anniversary present she ever got.
A graduate of Villa Rica High School Class of 1954, he married his high school sweetheart Jeanette Smith on April 10, 1954. The couple married secretly as schools didn't allow married couples to attend school. They were thinking he would be drafted after school.
They went to McKoy road in Douglas County with witnesses Nancy Wix and Melvin Sudduth (who also married secretly). After they were married they had dinner at the Rock Inn Cafe near Winston, which was a drive-in back in the day.
He was a football legend in our small town, as he was inducted into the VRHS Football Hall of Fame in 2010, just a few weeks after his hospital stay for heart surgery.
He was a musical talent and had a beautiful tenor voice. He sang with the Glee Club in school, and continued singing with a quartet and as a soloist all through his adult life. He was in the FFA quartet with members Bobby Butler, Charles Dial and Bobby Keaton and Carolyn Boyd was the pianist...they competed in 1953 and 1954.
He was a carpenter, building houses, raised a garden, horses and cattle, and later worked as a salesman for Upchurch, Chris Huber Chevrolet, Don-Rich Ford and B&A Building Supply. It had been said he could do the work of two men.
He enjoyed golf with his friends on his day off and later competed at church fundraiser, winning longest drive, on one occasion. He collected Coca Cola memorabilia, coins and pocket knives.
Spending time with his family and friends was always at the top of his list. Whether horseback riding, fishing, camping at Lake Allatoona, water skiing and boating, or taking family vacations to the beach, the mountains and even going to visit his brother in California. He always took pride in his home and kept his yard manicured like a golf course.
He and Jeanette were honored with a 50th anniversary celebration, at Flat Rock Baptist Church, given by their children on April 10, 2004. They enjoyed a trip to Washington DC for their anniversary with their son.
He loved to eat; some of his favorite foods included turnip greens, corn bread, fried catfish, ice cream and candy, especially chocolate and snickers. He is a life long member of Flat Rock Baptist Church, was a member of the Adult Choir, a soloist, and was a faithful member of the Senior Men's Sunday School class as long as his health allowed. He was also a lifelong member of the Carroll County Coin Club.
He is survived by his children, Mike Meeks and Connie Meeks Duffey (Tom); and his grandchildren Adam Meeks and Emery Duffey, one brother Hugh Meeks of Alabama, and a host of extended relatives.
He was predeceased by his mother and father Lilla Louella Muse Meeks and John Sidney Meeks, and his brothers Delmas, Bud, George, William, Hubert, JC and Charles.
He is the best Dad anyone could ever have and I have always been so proud to call him MY Dad! My life is forever changed without him. Connie
---------------------------------------------------
How Far He Wishes He Could Run
EMERY DUFFEY·SATURDAY, DECEMBER 26, 2015
It doesn't matter how far he wishes he could run
Those two legs won't carry him as far as they used to
Sad but true
Because his feet seem too damn small to keep him steady
And his bones become jelly
And his muscles turn to concrete
Wet and slick enough for him to slip on
If he moves too quickly
It doesn't matter how far he wishes he could run
Each time he rises from a simple chair
Could lead to a potential downfall
A crashing onto carpeted floor
And another bruise that will loom
People will forget about him
Asking only about the blossoming blues and purples
That stretch their petals across skin that crumples
Like tissue paper
It doesn't matter how far he wishes he could run
His body is the earth
And each tectonic plate that holds it together
Experiences constant earthquakes
And what did he do in his life or past life
To deserve such a sentence?
Nothing.
It doesn't matter how far he wishes he could run
Or where he'd like to travel
Or how he wishes he could escape
His words run together like the white and yellow
Of fried eggs he used to love
His body overheats and steams
Like his coffee
His mouth just can't seem to form words
The way cookie cutters make perfect shapes
And food?
That thing which he loved and enjoyed dearly?
It's turned into oatmeal, sugarless candies, nonfried foods, etc.
It's as bland as he appears
It doesn't matter how far he wishes he could run
Even if the high school football star still lurks within
Coming back during restless nights
When he seizes up into a tight ball
And his bedroom melts away
Perhaps this is now his only escape?
Maybe he can enjoy these travels back in time
It doesn't matter how far he wishes he could run
His eyes see things that may or may not exist
He may mention these things to those around him
A coyote or a small animal on his lap
Or even a gaping hole in the floor
Or an thief in the night lurking in his house
That he can neither see nor touch
But he'll fight with the last of his strength if need be
It doesn't matter how far he wishes he could run
Words on the tip of his tongue
Come out twisted
He means to call one name, but says another
Or even nothing at all
The dead walk around him
But others cannot see
It doesn't matter how far he wishes he could run
He thinks as his body entraps who he is
The 'me,' 'I,' and 'myself'
Engulfed in a cage that eats his smiles
Leaving only a flat expression in family pictures
He's happy, oh, he's happy
That you are here with him
If only he could tell you
And smile for you
Or say your name with glee
It doesn't matter how far he wishes he could run
Because, as you can see
His body separates now
From who he is
Because he still is the way you remember him
And hears and registers every word of frustration or confusion you speak
But you often forget that his body is not the equivalent of him
No, his identity hasn't disappeared
It doesn't matter how far he wishes he could run
Or how many touchdowns he made in the past
Or how many hula hoops he rescued from rooftops
Or how many horses he rode or cows he sold
Or how many buildings he has built
Or fences he's mended
What matters to him now
What would mean the most
Is if you could see he's still there
Behind the mask of his condition
His body makes him stuck and unable to move
But he still exists as himself despite his shell
If only you can see that
If only you can help him bring that to surface from his cage
If only you can see through the darkened forest
Of things he sees that don't exist
And nonsense phrases like, "Do you ever feel slouchy?"
And flat expression or soft voice or body-shaking earthquakes
He's still there
And he can't run from his own body
But he can escape if you find him
If you still see him there
And pull him back to the present with you
You haven't lost him just yet
As long as he hasn't lost you
Do you see him, now?
Funeral service:
Dr. Jerry T. Brown, minister
Music by Harold G. Meeks (two songs, taped)
Beulah Land by Mike Meeks
Poem-How He Wishes He Could Run by Emery Duffey
Pallbearers: Hugh Meeks, Adam Meeks, Emery Duffey, Tom Duffey, Steve Meeks and Don Meeks
obituary by Connie Meeks Duffey
Remembering Daddy's favorite things:
he loved all movies by John Wayne
Andy Griffith as Andy and Matlock
Dallas with JR, Dynasty and Knots Landing
Hee Haw with all the music
always watched the Falcons and the Braves
listened to the Braves on the radio sitting in his swing
Wheel of Fortune, Jeopardy
Sanford and Son, he would act like Fred Sanford
The Lone Ranger and Roy Rogers shows
In the Heat of the Night and Archie Bunker...
MASH, Carol Burnette, all of the Peanuts holiday cartoon specials, Frosty the Snowman, Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, (which reminds me he always drove us around to see Christmas lights, the Hardy lights, even with the grandkids...
He loved to eat catfish at the Front Porch, Rio Vista, or anywhere and he loved to eat at the Cracker Barrel and playing checkers with his grandkids at the restaurant or at home)
He told us many times about picking cotton to pay $50 for his first car, a 1929 Chevrolet. When he got his license he was a designated driver for a business man in town that would give him money for food to wait for him till he came out of "a drinking place" and take him home.
A heart of gold stopped beating,
Hard working hands now rest.
God broke our hearts to prove to us
he only takes the best.
We think of you in silence,
we often speak your name,
all we have are memories,
your picture in a frame.
A million times we've thought of you,
a million times we've cried.
If love alone could have saved you,
you never would have died.
It broke our hearts to lose you,
but you didn't go alone.
For a part of us went with you
the day God took you home.
miss you every single day.....
on April 10, 2019 I woke remembering your last trip by the house from the funeral home, and how they paused in front of the house ....I have cried all day...missing you.
If tomorrow starts without me, and I'm not here to see,
If the sun should rise you find your eyes all filled with tears for me;
I wish so much you wouldn't cry the way you did today,
While thinking of the many things we didn't get to say.
I know how much you love me, as much as I love you
And each time that you think of me, I know you'll miss me too.
But when tomorrow starts without me please try to understand,
That an angel came and called my name and took me by the hand.
He said my place was ready, in heaven far above
And that I'd have to leave behind all those I dearly love.
But as I turned and walked away a tear fell from my eye.
For all my life I'd always thought, I didn't want to die.
I had so much to live for, so much left yet to do.
It seemed almost impossible that I was leaving you.
I thought of all the yesterdays the good ones and the bad.
I thought of all the love we shared, and all the fun we had.
If I could relive yesterday, just even for a while,
I'd say goodbye and kiss you and maybe see you smile.
But then I fully realized that this could never be,
For emptiness and memories would take the place of me.
When I thought of worldly things I might miss come tomorrow
I thought of you and when I did my heart was filled with sorrow.
When I walked through heavens gates I felt so much at home.
God looked down and smiled at me from his great golden throne
He said, "This is eternity and all I've promised you"
Today your life on earth has passed but here life starts anew.
I promise no tomorrow, but today will always last
And since each day is the same there's no longing for the past.
You have been so faithful so trusting and so true.
Though there were times you did some things you knew you shouldn't do.
You have been forgiven and now at last you're free.
So won't you come and take my hand and share my life with me?
So when tomorrow starts with out me don't think we're far apart,
For every time you think of me, I'm right here in your heart.
Author: David Romano
September 12, 2020.... still I miss you so much, brings me to tears...
A graduate of Villa Rica High School Class of 1954, he married his high school sweetheart Jeanette Smith on April 10, 1954. The couple married secretly as schools didn't allow married couples to attend school. They were thinking he would be drafted after school.
They went to McKoy road in Douglas County with witnesses Nancy Wix and Melvin Sudduth (who also married secretly). After they were married they had dinner at the Rock Inn Cafe near Winston, which was a drive-in back in the day.
He was a football legend in our small town, as he was inducted into the VRHS Football Hall of Fame in 2010, just a few weeks after his hospital stay for heart surgery.
He was a musical talent and had a beautiful tenor voice. He sang with the Glee Club in school, and continued singing with a quartet and as a soloist all through his adult life. He was in the FFA quartet with members Bobby Butler, Charles Dial and Bobby Keaton and Carolyn Boyd was the pianist...they competed in 1953 and 1954.
He was a carpenter, building houses, raised a garden, horses and cattle, and later worked as a salesman for Upchurch, Chris Huber Chevrolet, Don-Rich Ford and B&A Building Supply. It had been said he could do the work of two men.
He enjoyed golf with his friends on his day off and later competed at church fundraiser, winning longest drive, on one occasion. He collected Coca Cola memorabilia, coins and pocket knives.
Spending time with his family and friends was always at the top of his list. Whether horseback riding, fishing, camping at Lake Allatoona, water skiing and boating, or taking family vacations to the beach, the mountains and even going to visit his brother in California. He always took pride in his home and kept his yard manicured like a golf course.
He and Jeanette were honored with a 50th anniversary celebration, at Flat Rock Baptist Church, given by their children on April 10, 2004. They enjoyed a trip to Washington DC for their anniversary with their son.
He loved to eat; some of his favorite foods included turnip greens, corn bread, fried catfish, ice cream and candy, especially chocolate and snickers. He is a life long member of Flat Rock Baptist Church, was a member of the Adult Choir, a soloist, and was a faithful member of the Senior Men's Sunday School class as long as his health allowed. He was also a lifelong member of the Carroll County Coin Club.
He is survived by his children, Mike Meeks and Connie Meeks Duffey (Tom); and his grandchildren Adam Meeks and Emery Duffey, one brother Hugh Meeks of Alabama, and a host of extended relatives.
He was predeceased by his mother and father Lilla Louella Muse Meeks and John Sidney Meeks, and his brothers Delmas, Bud, George, William, Hubert, JC and Charles.
He is the best Dad anyone could ever have and I have always been so proud to call him MY Dad! My life is forever changed without him. Connie
---------------------------------------------------
How Far He Wishes He Could Run
EMERY DUFFEY·SATURDAY, DECEMBER 26, 2015
It doesn't matter how far he wishes he could run
Those two legs won't carry him as far as they used to
Sad but true
Because his feet seem too damn small to keep him steady
And his bones become jelly
And his muscles turn to concrete
Wet and slick enough for him to slip on
If he moves too quickly
It doesn't matter how far he wishes he could run
Each time he rises from a simple chair
Could lead to a potential downfall
A crashing onto carpeted floor
And another bruise that will loom
People will forget about him
Asking only about the blossoming blues and purples
That stretch their petals across skin that crumples
Like tissue paper
It doesn't matter how far he wishes he could run
His body is the earth
And each tectonic plate that holds it together
Experiences constant earthquakes
And what did he do in his life or past life
To deserve such a sentence?
Nothing.
It doesn't matter how far he wishes he could run
Or where he'd like to travel
Or how he wishes he could escape
His words run together like the white and yellow
Of fried eggs he used to love
His body overheats and steams
Like his coffee
His mouth just can't seem to form words
The way cookie cutters make perfect shapes
And food?
That thing which he loved and enjoyed dearly?
It's turned into oatmeal, sugarless candies, nonfried foods, etc.
It's as bland as he appears
It doesn't matter how far he wishes he could run
Even if the high school football star still lurks within
Coming back during restless nights
When he seizes up into a tight ball
And his bedroom melts away
Perhaps this is now his only escape?
Maybe he can enjoy these travels back in time
It doesn't matter how far he wishes he could run
His eyes see things that may or may not exist
He may mention these things to those around him
A coyote or a small animal on his lap
Or even a gaping hole in the floor
Or an thief in the night lurking in his house
That he can neither see nor touch
But he'll fight with the last of his strength if need be
It doesn't matter how far he wishes he could run
Words on the tip of his tongue
Come out twisted
He means to call one name, but says another
Or even nothing at all
The dead walk around him
But others cannot see
It doesn't matter how far he wishes he could run
He thinks as his body entraps who he is
The 'me,' 'I,' and 'myself'
Engulfed in a cage that eats his smiles
Leaving only a flat expression in family pictures
He's happy, oh, he's happy
That you are here with him
If only he could tell you
And smile for you
Or say your name with glee
It doesn't matter how far he wishes he could run
Because, as you can see
His body separates now
From who he is
Because he still is the way you remember him
And hears and registers every word of frustration or confusion you speak
But you often forget that his body is not the equivalent of him
No, his identity hasn't disappeared
It doesn't matter how far he wishes he could run
Or how many touchdowns he made in the past
Or how many hula hoops he rescued from rooftops
Or how many horses he rode or cows he sold
Or how many buildings he has built
Or fences he's mended
What matters to him now
What would mean the most
Is if you could see he's still there
Behind the mask of his condition
His body makes him stuck and unable to move
But he still exists as himself despite his shell
If only you can see that
If only you can help him bring that to surface from his cage
If only you can see through the darkened forest
Of things he sees that don't exist
And nonsense phrases like, "Do you ever feel slouchy?"
And flat expression or soft voice or body-shaking earthquakes
He's still there
And he can't run from his own body
But he can escape if you find him
If you still see him there
And pull him back to the present with you
You haven't lost him just yet
As long as he hasn't lost you
Do you see him, now?
Funeral service:
Dr. Jerry T. Brown, minister
Music by Harold G. Meeks (two songs, taped)
Beulah Land by Mike Meeks
Poem-How He Wishes He Could Run by Emery Duffey
Pallbearers: Hugh Meeks, Adam Meeks, Emery Duffey, Tom Duffey, Steve Meeks and Don Meeks
obituary by Connie Meeks Duffey
Remembering Daddy's favorite things:
he loved all movies by John Wayne
Andy Griffith as Andy and Matlock
Dallas with JR, Dynasty and Knots Landing
Hee Haw with all the music
always watched the Falcons and the Braves
listened to the Braves on the radio sitting in his swing
Wheel of Fortune, Jeopardy
Sanford and Son, he would act like Fred Sanford
The Lone Ranger and Roy Rogers shows
In the Heat of the Night and Archie Bunker...
MASH, Carol Burnette, all of the Peanuts holiday cartoon specials, Frosty the Snowman, Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, (which reminds me he always drove us around to see Christmas lights, the Hardy lights, even with the grandkids...
He loved to eat catfish at the Front Porch, Rio Vista, or anywhere and he loved to eat at the Cracker Barrel and playing checkers with his grandkids at the restaurant or at home)
He told us many times about picking cotton to pay $50 for his first car, a 1929 Chevrolet. When he got his license he was a designated driver for a business man in town that would give him money for food to wait for him till he came out of "a drinking place" and take him home.
A heart of gold stopped beating,
Hard working hands now rest.
God broke our hearts to prove to us
he only takes the best.
We think of you in silence,
we often speak your name,
all we have are memories,
your picture in a frame.
A million times we've thought of you,
a million times we've cried.
If love alone could have saved you,
you never would have died.
It broke our hearts to lose you,
but you didn't go alone.
For a part of us went with you
the day God took you home.
miss you every single day.....
on April 10, 2019 I woke remembering your last trip by the house from the funeral home, and how they paused in front of the house ....I have cried all day...missing you.
If tomorrow starts without me, and I'm not here to see,
If the sun should rise you find your eyes all filled with tears for me;
I wish so much you wouldn't cry the way you did today,
While thinking of the many things we didn't get to say.
I know how much you love me, as much as I love you
And each time that you think of me, I know you'll miss me too.
But when tomorrow starts without me please try to understand,
That an angel came and called my name and took me by the hand.
He said my place was ready, in heaven far above
And that I'd have to leave behind all those I dearly love.
But as I turned and walked away a tear fell from my eye.
For all my life I'd always thought, I didn't want to die.
I had so much to live for, so much left yet to do.
It seemed almost impossible that I was leaving you.
I thought of all the yesterdays the good ones and the bad.
I thought of all the love we shared, and all the fun we had.
If I could relive yesterday, just even for a while,
I'd say goodbye and kiss you and maybe see you smile.
But then I fully realized that this could never be,
For emptiness and memories would take the place of me.
When I thought of worldly things I might miss come tomorrow
I thought of you and when I did my heart was filled with sorrow.
When I walked through heavens gates I felt so much at home.
God looked down and smiled at me from his great golden throne
He said, "This is eternity and all I've promised you"
Today your life on earth has passed but here life starts anew.
I promise no tomorrow, but today will always last
And since each day is the same there's no longing for the past.
You have been so faithful so trusting and so true.
Though there were times you did some things you knew you shouldn't do.
You have been forgiven and now at last you're free.
So won't you come and take my hand and share my life with me?
So when tomorrow starts with out me don't think we're far apart,
For every time you think of me, I'm right here in your heart.
Author: David Romano
September 12, 2020.... still I miss you so much, brings me to tears...
