On Wednesday, May 25th, I concelebrated and preached the funeral of a young man whose name is Nichols Alexander Flowers. Nick was 19 year old. He is the son of Mickie and Larry Flowers, the brother of Maddie, Gabbie and Noah, the grandson of my cousin Larry and his wife Joyce and the grandson of Ray, a grade school classmate and his wife Patti.
Less than four weeks ago life was normal, but within that time Nick found he had a heart problem and underwent major surgeries before leaving us this past Friday morning. His passing was devastating, his funeral very sad, his spirit, though, overriding all these emotions, brought a smile to so many faces and peace to so many hearts.
Many people said many things about Nick. His family shared that he was "the sweetest, kindest, most loving soul. He loved his family dearly." He never, ever, had a mean word for anyone or about anything. "He is without a doubt the most pure hearted person that we have ever known."
This was echoed on social media by his high school band director who posted "I witnessed one of the kindest, happiest, purest young men I have ever met." He said of Nick "His attitude instantly filled the entirety of every space he was in until there was no room for anything else but happiness." "He always knew what was important, and was never afraid to remind us in his own gentle but insistent way." This teacher concluded: "I will never have another student like him and you will never have another friend like him because he is one of a kind." A great tribute.
Nick was involved in band and the drama club at Albert Gallatin High School and was currently on the dean's list in his freshman year at Penn State.
He was a kid that "went to bed with a smile on his face and woke up the same way." He was a young man of deep faith and infectious joy.
One person on facebook spoke of being inspired by this family every time they came into Saint Joseph Church, filled the pew, knelt in quiet prayer before greeting those around them and praying with the parish family at liturgy.
Nick is a gift to us. Nick in his young life knew that God had gifted him so that he could share that giftedness with others. And he welcomed the gift that others are into his life. No wonder he was such a pure heart who exuded happiness. Thank you, Nick.
He brings his joy to the home of his heavenly Father. Our continued prayers to his Mom and Dad, sisters and brother, family and friends.
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