A fathers Eulogy and a Gift of the Father

A fathers Eulogy and a Gift of the Father

BY Douglas S. Sutherland, M.D.

I’m a radiologist specializing in interpreting patient images, specifically oncology imaging and women’s imaging. The most rewarding part of my profession is making a positive difference in the lives of the patients by detecting breast cancer, diagnosing the extent and severity of a cancer and directing further treatment to provide the most timely and optimal patient care.

As a physician, I am surrounded by the medical challenges of life and one’s own mortality. Recently, this hit home for me. I had lost my father. A person so close to my heart, I haven’t known any closer, until recently. As an only child of a single parent for the entirety of my life, our relationship was truly unique and special. We never missed an opportunity to tell each other our feelings. We were never restrained in saying I love you. He showed me and my children all the love in his heart. He exemplified the love of Jesus his whole life.

Ironically, my father did not attend church regularly and wasn’t a fan of organized religion. I know in my heart he had faith, but I had never been direct with him regarding Jesus until the day before he passed. I am so grateful for the spiritual moment I had.

Standing next to his bed in a nursing facility, we were having a good talk about day-to-day life activities. His health was no better or worse than any other day. He was not acutely ill. I experienced a wave of unexpected emotion out of nowhere that caused me to well up in tears. I was embarrassed by it, not by doing it in front of him, but that it arose unexpectedly and so suddenly. I told him that I was saddened he wouldn’t be around forever and I felt helpless in trying to reverse or improve his current condition. He was always so encouraging and positive even at this moment. It was then that I asked him, dad you believe in God right? He gave me a confused look like I was crazy and of course said yes. I said dad you believe Jesus was the son of God and died for our sins? He said “yeah and I talk to him every day”. I definitively knew at that moment he had a relationship with Jesus. And the next day he passed peacefully and painlessly.

My earthly father showed me a love like I believe Jesus asks us to show one another and my heavenly Father, through the work of the Holy Spirit in me and by His Grace, gave me the blessing of peace before my father was welcomed home.

As a radiologist and a physician, I interpret images and help people. As a Christian I am learning to interpret the heart, as shown by my father and my Savior.

Eulogy

Gregory Douglas Sutherland

My father was the greatest man I'll ever know. He taught me through his actions - how to love and be loved. To me his love was so unconditional and without flaws. It was not until I became a father myself that I could fully comprehend the dedication it took to excel at being, not only my father, but also fulfill the duties required by a mother. He learned when to be gentle and nurturing, he also knew when to be tough and stand firm in his decisions. I knew without a shadow of a doubt that my father was behind me, believed in me and supported me. In return, he only requested that I gave my best in everything I aspired to become or accomplish. He was truly my best friend, strongest advocate, and truly my biggest fan! And he never let me forget it!

His personality was infectious, and his heart overflowed with care and compassion for everyone he met. I know he touched so many lives in a positive way.

Recently, I watched my Father’s health decline. The support of family and friends through these difficult days was overwhelming - I received an outpour of love and will have new memories and stronger relationships, as a result.

Reflecting on my Father, today, I see how he was a pillar of strength and accomplishments, but it was his hard work, his dedication and the relentless way he served others that will remain with me.

To know Greg was to love Greg. No one could have been prouder to be a father, grandfather and best friend than my dad... He was my everything.

With loss comes grievance... and our family is certainly grieving... but there is peace in knowing my father is reunited with Our Savior.

I will close by sharing that today, tomorrow and for however long it may be until we meet again, I know you will always watch over me!