Lynchburg: R.I.P. Southern Style, Revisited

As I previously noted two years ago, in the south, folks are special. And lucky. Whereas in the rest of the world, we just die, people in the Bible Belt evolve to higher ground. Take, for example, these heartfelt tributes from the News & Advance daily  newspaper (names are changed to keep me from going proceeding immediately to hell):

On Nov. 18, The Lord stopped by Bay Parks Nursing Home in Bronx, NY, to call Nellie Frances Grey home to rest… She leaves to cherish her memory a host of devoted nieces and nephews, one sister-in-law and her many friends.

James “Jim” Hillerberg reunited with his parents, Hershal & Claire, and his brothers, Paul & Harry, and was placed at the feet of Jesus for healing on Monday, Nov. 21. Jim lived in Plaquemine, LA, with his Paw-Paw Bergman for two years as a child.

Deacon William Lincoln Bennett of Bedford departed this life early Sunday morning. God granted him the desires of his heart to live his final days in the comfort of his home.

Zackary Dustin Moss went to be with the Lord Monday. A Celebration of Life will be held at Tharp Funeral Chapel. The family asks that children's toys be given away in his memory. He was very excited about the upcoming benefit his band was putting on for God's Pantry.

I also learned something new: In the South, black folks have a code: Whenever you see “departed” instead of “died,” it’s an insider term for African Americans. Who knew?