Denise Marotta LopesDenise Marotta Lopes

Encouragement. Hope. Without exception, love.

A Goodbye to a Friend

by Denise Marotta Lopes on Feb 10, 2026 category Stories

I didn’t sleep well last night. Because of that, I arrived at the screened porch in daylight. I prefer to greet the day while it is still dark. When possibilities still lie ahead. When I join the darkness as it enters the light.

No matter what is happening, the sun rises. It always does. The birds still sing and squawk. They call to one another and await a return to their greeting. This morning was not as cold as recent mornings. I didn’t need the space heater, but instead, wrapped myself in a thick blanket, sipped a hot cup of coffee, and picked up my wooden Rosary Beads.

Today, I offered my prayers for the life of my friend, Father George. He died yesterday. The world feels different without him in it. Like something very important is missing. I’ve been visiting him at the retirement home for priests and brothers for over 12 years. For pet therapy, for conversation, for storytelling, and for many laughs.

He is the priest who heard my confession after I returned to the Catholic Church after 26 years. No judgment. Only friendship. Always friendship.

Franklin and I visited him yesterday; we said our goodbyes shortly before he took his last breath here on earth. I thanked him for being such a good friend.

The sun rose today on a different world, but on a good world. A world better for him having lived in it. A world he left, for an even better one.

God-speed, my friend.

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About the Author Denise Marotta Lopes

I appreciate the little things and write about them. I desire to bring hope, encouragement, and—without exception—love.

    Comments

    1. Daniel Marotta

      February 10, 2026 at 11:58 am

      So sorry for your loss my Cousin. May he rest in peace .

      Reply
      • Denise Marotta Lopes

        February 10, 2026 at 2:29 pm

        Amen, Danny. Thank you.

        Reply
    2. Cathy Boon

      February 12, 2026 at 2:10 am

      I’m sorry for your loss, Dee.

      Reply
      • Denise Marotta Lopes

        February 12, 2026 at 7:46 am

        Thank you, my friend.

        Reply
    3. Cathy Miller

      February 12, 2026 at 10:48 am

      This is so beautiful, thank you. God blessed us,giving us time with our Favorite Uncle George. I know Uncle George made everyone he met,his favorite. God Bless,see you again in our heavenly home.

      Reply
      • Denise Marotta Lopes

        February 12, 2026 at 12:30 pm

        Thank you for your kind words, Cathy. He was a very special man and a friend to all he encountered. I am remembering your family in my prayers.

        Reply
    4. Donna Horan

      February 12, 2026 at 10:17 pm

      Thank you for your kind words about my Uncle George. He will be missed by so many people. He is in heaven with his beloved family. Rest in peace. Love your favorite niece Donna.

      Reply
      • Denise Marotta Lopes

        February 13, 2026 at 6:50 am

        Thank you, Donna. We loved your Uncle George. He was accepting, loving, and kind. And, he was especially funny. He was a gatherer of people. I am thinking off you and your family.

        Reply
    5. Jeannine Cass

      February 13, 2026 at 8:18 am

      Such a beautiful tribute to your friend. What a gift you were to him. Your written words touched me deeply. “He left this world for a better one.”

      Reply
      • Denise Marotta Lopes

        February 13, 2026 at 12:14 pm

        Dear Cousin. I know you understand this deeply. Thank you for your kind words. My love is with you.

        Reply
    6. jude squire

      February 13, 2026 at 11:27 pm

      Your loss is palpable, nice that you got to spend precious time with him.

      Reply
      • Denise Marotta Lopes

        February 14, 2026 at 10:33 am

        Thank you for understanding, Jude.

        Reply

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        Author Bio

        Denise Marotta Lopes

        I appreciate the little things and write about them. I desire to bring encouragement, hope,and—without exception—love.

        denisemarottalopes@gmail.com