The Love of a Father

My husband began transcribing this book in March, 2000 and continued through March, 2005. He was unable to complete it due to his sudden and unexpected death in October, 2005. In order to fulfill his wishes and to share his story with others I have completed his book as best as I could through many tears and with the help of the Lord.This book is a story of love, faith and hope in the midst of sorrow, suffering and loss. It is the story of trusting in 'The Love of A Father' when life can sometimes be at it’s worst, when we are suffering and when nothing seems to make any sense.It begins with my husband’s miraculous healing as a small child and how God spared his life with His ever loving hand and has guided our lives for His plan and purposes.When a young man from a small coal mining town in West Virginia and a young girl from a large city in Virginia meet at a local grocery food chain store their lives would be instantly changed forever.Edward ('Eddie') and Shirley Smith were married in 1963 and were devoted in marriage for 42 years. They have shared their very personal story in a hope that it will be a source of strength and encouragement for others.They have two children, one who went to be with the Lord in 1985, and three grandsons, one a heart transplant recipient and cancer survivor.Their marriage was like a fairy-tale romance and was truly apparent in the genuine love and respect that they had for each other.Through their many trials and heartaches they remained steadfast in their love for each other and in their faith and trust in Almighty God. 3