"I love you more than my luggage." John quipped that line to me many times. I will miss his one-liners.  Joe Ben said it best Tuesday night as we gathered at Miss Mary's house:  “That Rascal up and left us.” You did leave us, John.  My heart hurts.  There are so many things that I will miss about you it is hard to keep track.  I remember 25 plus years ago when I journeyed to Uncle Robert and Aunt Flora's house for my appointment at your make-shift beauty shop.  I recall sitting on a wooden stool in their utility room for you to illegally cut my hair.  Most of the women in Edgefield County sat on that same stool for you to do your magic.  You transformed us so well that we followed you here, there, and yonder.  You also were one of the best make-up artists I have ever known.  I have seen you transform little girls into Peach Queens, Junior Misses and several Miss Statesmans.  Our local girls did well:  One became a model and offered the cover of a top European magazine while another became a finalist in the Miss USA Pageant. Your talents were not limited to just hair and makeup. You were a superb decorator.  I love the way you helped prepare my home for the Johnston Women's Club Tour.  How many times we witnessed your creating an elegant ballroom out of a cow pasture.  We gasped as we entered a wonderland of lights and romance ... your gift to many of our Edgefield County brides. I will miss your candor.  Johnny-Boy, you threw grenades of honest truth.  Ouch!  You told me things that I did not want to hear but you knew I needed to hear. I will miss your wisdom. Countless times I would call you with an “issue.”  In only a few seconds, you said just the right words.  You were one of the wisest friends I ever had. We knew the drill.  There were those times when you had to have your solitude.  We worried about you but you always bounced back. Eventually, e-mails appeared or our phones would ring.  Thank God, you were back.  Only a month or so ago, you called me as I sat with my mother while she was in ICU.  I cried when I heard your voice.  I will miss how much you loved and cared.  All of us experienced your kindness that never demanded attention or praise.  Just like your final wishes Friday ... no praise, no special attention. We witnessed your unconditional love for your precious mother. You gave up so much to be with Aunt Flora but you never complained and loved every second of your time with her. I loved your e-mails expressing your deep faith ... a side of you many were not privileged to see.  Only a few weeks ago you sent an email quoting Philippines 4:13:  “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Promise me that when my time comes, you will be waiting for me with a round-brush, hair-spray, some rollers ... and shoes that are the same color (post funeral humor).   As always you will tell me with choice words, to sit down and be quiet. You will want me to be introduced in heavenly style. You always want me to be at my best.  John, you blessed me.  Thank you, my cousin, my friend. I love you more than my luggage.