by Marilyn M.
Member since:
February 14, 2007

My Brother Passed Away Today

January 24, 2008 05:04 PM EST (Updated: January 24, 2008 10:34 PM EST)
views: 558 | comments: 138

I had always hoped that he would stop drinking and that his body and mind would heal.  But that was not to be.

Thankfully, he didn't die alone on the streets in the cold.  He was with friends and his heart gave out at about 3:20 this morning.

If you haven't read about my brother, here are two links:

He Walks Your Streets

What They Don't Tell Us (about alcohol)

 

My cousin just sent the picture included here.  It was taken in 1957 when my brother was one year old and I was five. 

 

I'll be away for a few days.  The funeral is on Monday in Pittsburgh.

 

 
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Comments: 138

Susan Roberts Jan 24, 2008, 5:07pm EST
(((HUGS))) I am so sorry to hear of your brother passing. GOD BLESS
Kathy D. Jan 24, 2008, 5:09pm EST
I'm so sorry, Marilyn.
Tiffany G. Jan 24, 2008, 5:09pm EST
this brought tears.. I am so sorry about that!! I hope you get through it ok.. we are here for you!!
Christopher K. Jan 24, 2008, 5:09pm EST
I am sorry to hear of your brothers passing marilyn.my prayers will be of you tonight
Tina (a slightly smaller Spanky) B. Jan 24, 2008, 5:13pm EST
Marilyn, I am so sorry. I know it means very little at a moment like this, but something I reminded myself of when a dear family friend's body finally gave out after many years of alcohol abuse was that at least now, whatever demons were chasing him have no power anymore.

My heart and prayers are with you and your family.
Lynn R. Jan 24, 2008, 5:16pm EST
Thoughts are with you and your family. You have my deepest sympathy.
carolyn b. Jan 24, 2008, 5:17pm EST
I'm so sorry about you loss, my prayers are with you and your family.
Bobbie S. Jan 24, 2008, 5:18pm EST
I am so sorry for you Marilyn, and I do hope you are surrounded by supportive friends and family who can help you get through the loss. You are in my prayers.
Lori F. Jan 24, 2008, 5:18pm EST
Marilyn my thoughts are with you.
Sandra T. Jan 24, 2008, 5:19pm EST
I'm so sorry for your loss, and I'm glad he did not die alone!
Dee - Nature Babe! Jan 24, 2008, 5:20pm EST
I am very sorry. It is a good thing that he was with friends. Thank God!
Trish A. Jan 24, 2008, 5:22pm EST
I wrap you with extra love.
Jan S. Jan 24, 2008, 5:24pm EST
I'll wrap you in prayer. It's so hard to lose a sibling who shares your memories of early family life. No one else has that connection. God bless you.
Juan J Martinez Jan 24, 2008, 5:24pm EST
My heart goes out to you in this time of sorrow.
*LORA* M. Jan 24, 2008, 5:26pm EST
I am sorry to hear this
Michael C. Jan 24, 2008, 5:31pm EST
I'm saddened to hear of your loss, Marilyn...
Alcoholism touches so many lives, including those who love the ones addicted.

God's blessing and peace for you and your family...
Sarah-jane C. Jan 24, 2008, 5:45pm EST
I am so sorry for your loss Marilyn! My father was an alcoholic for many many years. One day he decided to quit cold turkey and actually try to live. He passed away the next day. He already had serousis of liver and the tylenol he took sent him into a seizure. I was 9 years old
Patricia F. Jan 24, 2008, 5:54pm EST
I am so sorry for the loss of your brother-he was lucky to have a sister who supported him all along.
WS R. Jan 24, 2008, 5:57pm EST
I'm sorry for your loss. Take care.
So very sorry for your loss, and feel it deeply as I approach the anniversary of my own brother's death. Take care.
Apryl Just Apryl Jan 24, 2008, 6:12pm EST
Marilyn, I am so sorry for your loss

Big Hug~
michelle kane Jan 24, 2008, 6:14pm EST
So sorry---I lost my cousin at the young age of 37 to his battle of the bottle....so sad...
Brian T. Jan 24, 2008, 6:14pm EST
I'm so sorry to hear the bad new. Plese take care of yourself in your time of sorrow.
Marianne M. Jan 24, 2008, 6:21pm EST
Marilyn,
I'm so deeply sorry for your loss. I just read the two links you included. Alcoholism is a terrible disease. It destroys too many lives. Thinking of you.
Charlotte K. Jan 24, 2008, 6:27pm EST
Marilyn, I am so sorry for your loss. I pray that your family will recover from this terrible loss, although I know that you will always miss him, and I also pray that he is now resting in peace.
Vana R. Jan 24, 2008, 6:39pm EST
Marilyn,
I'm sorry to hear of your loss. My heart goes out to you and your family. You're in my prayers...(((hugs)))
Marilyn M. Jan 24, 2008, 6:46pm EST
Thanks, everyone. Your prayers are cherished.
t b. Jan 24, 2008, 6:47pm EST
I am so very sorry for your loss Marilyn.
Mary F. Jan 24, 2008, 6:48pm EST
I'm so sorry. You will be in my thoughts.
becky soccer mom x1 p. Jan 24, 2008, 6:49pm EST
you have my deepest sympathy
Otelia S. Jan 24, 2008, 6:55pm EST
"I'm Sorry" doesn't seem like enough, so I'll add that You will always be in my prayers.
Hold on to those preciuos memories of your brother and hopefully, day by day, You'll be comforted with God's Love for you.
Be well and God Bless!
Lucky Stars Jan 24, 2008, 6:55pm EST
I'm so sorry, Marilyn. God's blessings to you.
Renee (Pres of Baby James Foundation) ~. Jan 24, 2008, 6:57pm EST
Marilyn I am so sorry.
Jennifer Oliver Jan 24, 2008, 6:57pm EST
Bless your heart, Marilyn, I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of your brother! May the good memories fill the hole in your heart. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

(((HUGS)))
Danielle P. Jan 24, 2008, 6:59pm EST
I am so so sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers. I hope he is at peace now.
Michael Harvey Jan 24, 2008, 7:03pm EST
It sadden me to learn that your brother has made his transition. God Bless and comfort this family in the days ahead I pray, in Jesus name. Amen. If there is ever anything that I can do for you or your family kindly advise.
lynn a. Jan 24, 2008, 7:06pm EST
Marilyn, I am sorry that you are going through this. We love regardless of alcoholism or any other ill. It doesn't matter. People don't have to be perfect to be loved and missed. I will say a few prayers for you and your family. Take care.
Nana to Seven Cutiepies Jan 24, 2008, 7:07pm EST
So sorry for your loss Marilyn. I send my deepest sympathies and prayers that God will be with you and your family during these trying times.
Mark M. Jan 24, 2008, 7:17pm EST
Hi Marilyn,
Wishing you peace in the hope of the resurrection. Safe travels and blessings for your trip.
Love in Christ, -Mark
Lin G. Jan 24, 2008, 7:20pm EST
Marilyn,
I'm so sorry to hear this. You must be devistated. I had a very close friend go the same way, even though he hadn't had a drink in over 5 years. The damage had been done and couldn't be reversed. I know this is hard to bear, and there just aren't any words of comfort that will help you right now. It should help you to know that he went quickly without long drawn out suffering. My prayers will be with you tonight.
Suze P. Jan 24, 2008, 7:22pm EST
I'm so sorry Marilyn, that's so sad.. my prayers are with you and your famiily.
F. Jeanette c. Jan 24, 2008, 7:23pm EST
Marilyn, I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. My sympathy to you and yours. I know all about the problems of alcohol. I've seen more than my share over the years. Members and friends of the family. It can take a toll on everyone involved.

10 4 u
Carol Roach Jan 24, 2008, 7:23pm EST
oh God Marilyn, I am so sorry
Joan G. Jan 24, 2008, 7:23pm EST
Hi Marilyn,

I am saddened to hear about this. You will be in my prayers.
Sue M. Jan 24, 2008, 7:23pm EST
I'm so sorry to hear this, Marilyn! My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
~*~Nina~*~ R. Jan 24, 2008, 7:27pm EST
Marilyn, I am truly sorry for your loss. I will pray for you and your family. God Bless You.
Nina
Lydia (part of the solution) Shelley Jan 24, 2008, 7:34pm EST
Marilyn, you and your family have my most sincere condolences. I'll add you to the prayer chain, too.
I am so sorry for your loss, Marilyn. No matter the age, we always hope things will turn out better for our loved ones.
Curt L. Jan 24, 2008, 7:38pm EST
I am so very sorry for your loss! God bless you and your family, Marilyn!
Katie D. Jan 24, 2008, 7:52pm EST
So sorry.
Karl Leuba Jan 24, 2008, 8:05pm EST
Find strength in knowing that the torments have ended. I can offer little more than my sympathy, and the hope that your grief will be far shorter than your memories of his impact on your life.
Beverly T. Jan 24, 2008, 8:14pm EST
Oh, Marilyn, I am praying for your family and you. I know this is hard! Lots of hugs are going your way, and I'll be praying for eveyone involved. Hug! Hug! Hug!
Jerri H. Jan 24, 2008, 8:32pm EST
Sorry for your loss Marilyn.
Pat S. Jan 24, 2008, 8:35pm EST
msg you by mail
Swimming With The Tide O. Jan 24, 2008, 8:37pm EST
I'm so very sorry about your loss Marilyn. You and your family will be in my prayers. Travel safely and remember to take care of yourself.
Sharon B. Jan 24, 2008, 8:42pm EST
I am so sorry for your loss.
Randi B. Jan 24, 2008, 8:50pm EST
I am so sorry to hear about your brother. I too have a brother who has drank, mostly beer, most of his life. He has hardly any liver left. It breaks my heart for you because we can't do anything. I love my brother very much and hate it for him. I have prayed for him for years now. Just so the ones that know Robert Burnham is my brother this is not him it is another brother. God will be with you and strenghten you.
Carl Prime Time Lee Jan 24, 2008, 8:54pm EST
Prayers...
dianne j. Jan 24, 2008, 9:01pm EST
Marilyn, I just returned from a funeral home where I said goodby to a friend of more than 40 years to find your post. I am so sorry for you and your family. You are all in my thoughts.
Jeanie C. Jan 24, 2008, 9:06pm EST
So sorry for your loss Marilyn, loss is never easy but I think you know he's been gone for a while. Too bad the demons won. Sorry he's gone, I wish you well with a speedy healing of your heart. You and your family are in my prayers
Alison H. Jan 24, 2008, 9:07pm EST
I'm so very sorry for your loss. I lost a brother-in-law to alcohol.

(((hugs & prayers)))
Bridget ♥ Jan 24, 2008, 9:31pm EST
I am so sorry for your loss.
Sue * Jan 24, 2008, 9:41pm EST
I am so sorry for your loss. I'm glad he wasn't alone.
I am so very sorry for your loss.
Lord God Almighty, I ask that you be with Marilyn and family , for their loss of a son and brother. In Jesus Christ name Amen.
Matthew Emmett Townsend Jan 24, 2008, 9:48pm EST
Ohhh sweety.... (hugs)

I hope and pray the funeral gathering is a good healing one...

We love you,,,
Wanda H. Jan 24, 2008, 9:57pm EST
Marilyn, all my best thoughts are with you today. I am so sorry for your loss. I am so glad your brother didn't pass alone. Take all the love, pouring out to you, in our comments and hold it in your heart. We will be there to sustain you as deal with this loss in your family. Bless you and yours dear, in the hard time. Namaste
Phyllis R. Jan 24, 2008, 10:11pm EST
You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.....God Bless each of you!!!
carolyn m. Jan 24, 2008, 10:14pm EST
so sorry for your loss my friend just remember we are all here if you need us huggs and love carol m., will pray for you and your familey
Shekinah C. Jan 24, 2008, 10:18pm EST
Thanks for letting us know Marilyn. I am sorry for your loss. You sound brave when you share but yet is has to be grief unspeakable. I have lost so many in my family to alcoholism and no, they don't tell folks the consequences.Any way, I am lifting you.
Offgrid Girl
necee t. Jan 24, 2008, 10:26pm EST
oh Marilyn... i'm so sorry for your loss... Blessings to you and yours...
Lawrence U. Jan 24, 2008, 10:58pm EST
A great loss, Marilyn! My heartfelt sympathy and prayers are for you in your hour of need.
Sherrie H. Jan 24, 2008, 11:04pm EST
My heart goes out to you and your family will be in my prayers. Keep looking up.
David S. Jan 24, 2008, 11:25pm EST
Thanks for being strong. My prayers are with you.
K S. Jan 24, 2008, 11:30pm EST
I wish you the strength to get through what you need to, in the coming days ..... please accept my sympathy for the loss of your brother ....
''The One & Only BERF" .. Jan 24, 2008, 11:31pm EST
Marilyn----

I know that nothing I write will take away the sorrow you feel and the pain this loss has brought to you. I pray that the Lord brings comfort and peace to both you and your family. I also pray with all my heart that you will see your brother again one day, and you both will once more talk and laugh together.
Connie C. Jan 24, 2008, 11:32pm EST
I am sorry for your loss.
Dani B. Jan 24, 2008, 11:37pm EST
I'm sorry
Janet H. Jan 24, 2008, 11:38pm EST
I am so sorry that your brother passed away.
Sarah McSib Jan 25, 2008, 12:11am EST
I am truly and deeply sorry to hear about your loss. You and your family will be in my prayers.
Nancy S. Jan 25, 2008, 12:11am EST
I am so sorry Marilyn. I know how hard this is for you. My prayers are with you and your family. God bless.
April H. Jan 25, 2008, 12:34am EST
I am so sorry for your loss!
Wilma M. Jan 25, 2008, 1:57am EST
I am so sorry to hear of your brother's death. I'm glad he wasn't alone.
Jennine D. Jan 25, 2008, 2:03am EST
Maria I am so sorry of your loss. I will be keeping you in prayer.
Bethany C. Jan 25, 2008, 2:04am EST
Marilyn, I can only add my voice to the others here who have said we are praying for you and your family.
May the grace of God comfort you at this time. His grace is sufficient.
I know no words that can help at a time like this, but I know Our Father can mend the brokenhearted.
J. P. Jan 25, 2008, 2:31am EST
Very sorry to hear that, may he rest in peace Marilyn.
Sunaura *. Jan 25, 2008, 2:41am EST
My deepest sympathy at your time of loss
Charlotte G. Jan 25, 2008, 2:45am EST
Very sorry for your loss. You and your family will be in my thoughts.
Rose T. Jan 25, 2008, 3:08am EST
My deeepest empathy to you Marylyn and your family.

May the Lord lift you with His loving arms and heal the hurt while your brother is gone;
To sit beside the Lord and wait, for the opening of the pearly gates.
May you know that all is well and your brother made it through his hell.
To stand beside the Lord on high he made it through a world of pride.
So when the wind blows by your face, remember your brother at the pearly gates!

Amen
Luna Rushdi Jan 25, 2008, 4:01am EST
Hi Marilyn I am really sorry for your loss. My best wishes are with you. If you need anybody to talk to, I am here for you. Just send me an email. My prayers are with you and your family.
C A. Jan 25, 2008, 5:25am EST
My sympathies Marilyn. God Bless.
Anne N. Jan 25, 2008, 5:39am EST
My deepest sympathies at your loss, Here is a poem I wrote when my brother died years ago, I hope it brings some comfort to you,

I'LL MEET YOU THERE
by Anne R. C. Neale

I'll meet you in Heaven when my turn comes,
We can reminisce and have spiritual fun,
We can meet our ancestors, family, parents too
And meet Our God and His Angels so true,

I'll meet you in Heaven on the Spiritual Plane,
Where pure love abounds and His Holy Name
Our Spirits will soar and we'll be fine up there,
When we" cross over' on the Golden stairs,

l'll meet you in heaven is my song,
Having Belief in God is never wrong,
Jesus prepared a place for us all,
I'll meet you in Heaven with my Spirit and Soul.
denise e Jan 25, 2008, 6:41am EST
i am so sorry to hear about your loss... you will be in my prayers
Yvonne F. Jan 25, 2008, 7:06am EST
My deepest sympathy Marilyn, I'll keep you in my thoughts and prayers
Michele J. Jan 25, 2008, 7:45am EST
I am sorry for your loss, you will be in my prayers.
Ana S. Jan 25, 2008, 7:58am EST
marilyn, you are in my thoughts and prayers in this sad time. I am soo sorry for the loss of your brother
Sammie B. Jan 25, 2008, 8:07am EST
I'm so sorry to hear that. I'll be sure to keep you in my prayers.
Carol V. Jan 25, 2008, 8:59am EST
I'm sorry to hear about your loss. Prayers are headed your way. . . .
Angela A. Jan 25, 2008, 9:59am EST
I am sorryb to hear about your brother but even posting this here does not even feel like enough to take away the pain you must be feeling right now. There is no words of comfert to be said to anyone greiving like I know you must be. I can tell this by your writing and the love that is put into the words you say about your brother. Right now leaning on your writing might be able to help you out. I did not see this till this morning a day after it was posted. Know that we all are thinking of you. Stay safe and get back when you can.
Carmen Y. Jan 25, 2008, 10:37am EST
Marilyn, I so very sorry about the loss of your brother. I know what you're going through....my younger sister passed away 12 days ago. My entire family is hurting and it will take time to get over the loss.

I'll say a prayer for you and your family. God bless
Geoffrey E. Jan 25, 2008, 11:19am EST
Marilyn,

How terribly sad. All my best to you and your family in this difficult time. God bless.
Mariana T. Jan 25, 2008, 11:47am EST
Marilyn, sending hugs and prayers your way. I am very sorry about your brother. Salud.