You don’t know Lillian, but I’m sure you know someone like her. She was my brother-in-law’s mom. She passed away a few days ago at 97 years old. And now, I have the privilege of celebrating her life.
It got me thinking—what will others say about you and me when we’re gone?
When I think of Lillian Pickard, one word comes to mind: Angelic. I didn’t know every detail about her—her strengths, her weaknesses—but I know this: I’ve never heard a single soul speak ill of her. Only admiration. Only kindness. She had this rare grace, a way of seeing the best in others and sharing a love that felt almost heavenly.
Even in her 90s, she carried a beauty that few possess at any age. Not just outward beauty—though she had that, too—but a beauty that radiated from the inside out.
She was gentle. She was kind. She prayed for everyone. She loved God deeply and prioritized Him above all else. She loved Jesus, the One who secured her eternity, and she sought the Holy Spirit’s guidance every step of the way.
She took care of her body that the Holy Spirit resided in. Small and frail in stature, yet strong and unwavering in faith.
No one is perfect, not even Lillian Pickard—but I believe with all my heart that she strived for it. She loved God so much that she longed to reflect Him. She loved Jesus so fully that His character became her own.
If she could read this now, she’d probably smile and say, “Now Tim, you’re just saying too much.”
But here’s what I know: she loved everybody. She lived out the two greatest commandments—loving God with all her heart, soul, mind, and strength, and loving others as herself.
She kept life simple, but she lived it well. And because of that, everyone who knew her celebrates her.
Even in the short time I spent with her, she left a lasting impression. She made me want to be better. To live better. To love better. I hope I grow up to be like her.
I hope, when my time comes, someone finds something good and Godly in what I leave behind—just as Lillian has left with me. I’m beyond grateful to have known her. She was a model, a mentor, an earthly angel who left a permanent mark on my heart.
And in a strange way, I look forward to celebrating her in person again one day. She makes me reflect on what truly matters.
King Solomon once said: “It is better to go to a funeral than to a party. We all must die, and everyone living should think about this.” (Ecclesiastes 7:2 NCV)
Lillian Pickard ran her race well. She lived out what the Apostle Paul wrote:
“So let us run the race that is before us and never give up. We should remove from our lives anything that would get in the way and the sin that so easily holds us back. Let us look only to Jesus, the One who began our faith and who makes it perfect… Think about Jesus’ example… So do not get tired and stop trying.” (Hebrews 12:1-3 NCV)
Lillian, that was the race you ran. You never stopped trying. And you’ve inspired me to do the same.
You are heaven-bound. So am I. And I will see you soon enough.
With deep gratitude for your lessons, your love, and the example you set—Amen and Amen. ❤️
LORD, please heal the void left behind by Lillian’s passing. But also, please let the memories and the lessons she left behind fill that space. I pray this in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. Amen. ❤️
Photo: My Brother-in-law, John Pickard and His beautiful Mom
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