I originally wanted to title this post, “Darkness prevails.” But, in the spirit of Jim Stafford, I have chosen to simply go with his name.

The first time I walked into Jim Stafford’s house was inspiring to me. From the front door, you could look through the living room, kitchen and huge family room and look right through the sliding glass door to the backyard. I am not sure why we were there, but it was a party. There were a lot kids there, Dylan included. We played a lot of pool that night, but what stuck with me was the house. On the way home, I remembering asking Donna, “Do you think we will ever live a house like that?” To which Donna replied, “Yes, if you want to.” Years later, after I bought my first and only house with a somewhat similar kind of view through it, I told Jim about how seeing his house was a inspiration to me. He said “Really?” I’m sure he thought it was silly, even after I explained it to him. But it was the truth.

Our experiences with Jim Stafford and his family were periodic through out the years. Nonetheless, they were incredibly memorable to us. The first time Jim and his family came over Lonny and Jennie’s while I was there was kind of funny for me. I wondered who this guy was that he thought he could just walk into Lonny and Jennie’s house. Little did I know. After having spent some time with Jim and getting know him better, I would have felt privileged to have him walk into my house with that big smile on his face and a friendly hello in his voice.

It seemed like we had quite a few years where we would get together with Jim and his family. For a while, it was New Year’s Eve for pool playing and video game embarrassments for the elders. Myself included. Always at the hand of Dylan, Jim Jr. and John. Dylan was always excited about New Years during that period where we did that. Later, it became Fourth of July to watch fireworks at the mall. Jim was always welcoming and friendly. I cannot think of a nicer man I have met in my life. His optimism was infectous to everybody in the room. His voice was a smile. When he would speak, you just knew that there was smile not far away.

My family and I treasured those memories with Jim and his family. They made holidays that usually weren’t that big of deal to us memorable, and something we will never forget. Jim was strong, and he tried to hang in there for his family. He did for quite a while.

The last time I saw Jim, he walked right into Lonny and Jennie’s house like he had countless times before. He was welcomed as always, and it was nice to see him for the little bit we did. The last time Donna and I heard Jim’s voice was probably a couple months ago when he found out we lost Dylan. Clearly, he was struggling, but still made the effort. It was heartfelt and appreciated. A very, very nice man.

Rest in peace, Jim. We will all miss you.