Dexter Gabbard

Hi,
My wife and I went to a Verizon Wireless today--totally random--and it made me think about Dexter.  He and I met on a random flight from Nashville to Tampa back in probably 2003 or 2004.  I was living in NYC at that time and was pursuing a full-time career in music.  Dexter and I struck up a conversation on the plane and before I knew it we were extremely well-acquainted and managed to stay in touch for years.  I actually worked a part-time job at the VZW in Times Square in NYC because of an introduction he made on my behalf.  

My memory is a little foggy but I'm almost 99% sure that he also funded some of early studio time (I had a "studio fund" that friends and family contributed to) and he was a big fan of my music which was of course flattering and encouraging.  The last time he and I connected was in 2007 or so when he had just started talking about Huge Brand which he was fired up about.  I have no idea how the company performed from that point forward but I have to assume it was successful.  

I was shocked and disturbed to read about his death.  What happened??  Can anyone here tell me how this occurred?  I'm 42 years old today and to think that he passed at age 41 is one of the most tragic things I can imagine.  I would greatly appreciate any insight or news that anyone can share with me.  My email address is cooperuf@gmail.com or cooperuf@yahoo.com - either one works.  I still have old emails from Dexter in my inbox and it's again just so shocking to me that he's gone.  I can't say I've ever become actual friends with a stranger who I met on a flight lol.  And after reading all of these comments it's evident to me that he was a magnet and lightning rod of relationships and was clearly loved by many.  

Thank you in advance for getting back to me on this and please accept my most sincere condolensces.  

Robert Cooper
cooperuf@gmail.com
813.546.7999

Well my darling Dexter it has been 7 years today that I last spoke to you on the phone.  I remember it like it was yesterday and yet it seems a whole lifetime ago. The would of, could of, should of always is on my mind but that does not change what was to be.  I love you Dexter with every ounce of my being. I miss you more than there are words to describe it.  I know you are in heaven and if I could bring you back to me I wouldn't.  I hate that but you truly are where we all hope to me and it doesn't get any better than that.  Seven LONG years wow it is still so hard to believe.  I know that I have loved you since the moment you were born (and before than) and love you as much today as then.  God I was so blessed to be your Mom and I thank Gpd everyday for it. How proud I was of you and still am.  I want to write some great story about you but all I can do is think and miss you and cry. You were such a good person with such a good heart.  You always saw the best in everything and how the world could use alot more of you in it.  Your life was not long but how you lived it.  You always was there for me and I can't even begin to tell you how great it was to have you around.  I talk to you every single day and will until I pray that I get to see you again.  Never seeing you again would be the Hell for me.  I miss your stories, your recipes, and your thoughts and idea.  I miss you.  Forever in my  heart you will always be. Your Mom

You never realize how you take things for granted in your life until you find out a past friend or co-worker has passed away.

I worked with Dexter in Nashville, Tennessee where we were on the same outside business sales team for Cellular One / GTE Wireless in the 1990's.

Our friendship was instant because he was always positive and humurous at work everyday.

Dexter always talked about how much fun and relaxation he got from his hobby of hunting.

We both ended up as movie extras in a 3rd rate martial arts/action film filmed in Nashville called "The Expert" with a 3rd rate Chuck Norris like actor named Jeff Speakman.  It had an eclectic cast of Jiames Brolin, Jim varney and Elizabeth Gracen. It went direct to HBO for broadcast but it did receive a B+ rating from Entertainment Weekly. Dexter played a police officer in his scene and I was a terrorist killed near the end of the film. Beacuse of this movie extra work that Dexter got me involved in I still do extra work in films produced in Tennessee.

Once I left GTE Wireless I lost contact with him and the rest of my friends/co-workers always thinking that one day I would catch up with them and see how they were doing in general.

I was speechless when I ran into an old co-worker today and while we talked about past rememberances they told me Dexter passed away.

All I could think of was his funny smile when he was clowning around at work.

He was and is a person that will be sorely missed in a world that needs people who are honest, humorous and easy to be friends with.


"Go Rest High On That Mountain"

Hey Uncle Dexter, just want to say I have been missing you. Over the weekend I went to Ginnie Springs. I don't know if you ever been there, but you would have loved it. The springs were clear as day and freezing cold! The caves were so deep and i was scared to swim in them, but knowing you, you would take the risk. I wish you could have been there with me. It would have been a great memory to have with you. Come with me next time, we can swim in the caves together. I love you Uncle Dexter!!

It has been a while since I seen and visited on this page. Just seeing pictures of you, and thinking of all the memories I shared with you brought so much pain to my heart. People told me that over time, the loss gets easier, but honestly, I don't think it does. I feel we run away and try to live on from the pain, but once we face it again, it all rushes back to the last moment and hits us harder. Lately, I have been talking a lot about you and I hope one day I can make you proud by following in your footsteps.  I miss our talks and games we used to play. You have been the best uncle to me, and I know you never have left my side. Come visit me in my  dreams soon. I love you Uncle Dexter.

I didn't know Dexter very long. I went to four high schools during my senior year. He was at the last one I went too. He was in one of my classes and we sat at the same table at times. I remember him because he was such a nice guy. I was a shy fat girl that didn't know anyone. We all know how people can be in high school. Not Dexter. He was friendly and nice to me.  I remember one time someone made a comment that wasn't very nice, he told them to hush and told me not to listen to them. From what I've been reading I see that he was a truly good person. So sorry for your loss. I wish I could have known him better.

Death has cast its dark shadow over this family,
and it has left us all deeply bereft.

A voice has been stilled, a heart has stopped,
laughter has departed, joy has fled.

Gone are the warmth and the glow of a loved one's presence;
The chain of love has lost a vital link.

Death has taken a life which was precious;
It has brought pain, lonliness, and sorrow.

And yet there is so much which death cannot touch.
So much over which it has no dominion.

Death cannot rob us of our past;
The years, the dreams, the experiences which we shared.

Death cannot take from us the love we knew;
It is woven into the tapestry of our lives.

The lessons we were taught we shall continue to cherish;
We shall cling to the wisdom which lives on.

What we have had, we shall always possess:
What we have known, we shall always hold dear.

Death cannot take from us our abiding trust.
That God will give us strength to endure what we must.

Death cannot take from us our sustaining hope.
That darkness will yield to light, and the hurt give way 
to healing.

Death cannot take from us the comforting faith,
that with God every soul is precious: none is ever lost.

Thus even in sorrow, we thank the Lord our God,
For our memories and our hopes, for our trust and our faith.

For these, we believe need never be lost;
These, and so much more, death cannot take from us.




 

Eddie of course we remember you...I have looked for you and Antoinette on Facebook to no avail.  If you read this go to my facebook page under the name Shannon Gabbard Conklin and leave me a message.  Thank you for your condolences about Dex, I sure love and miss him!!

I'm not sure if Shannon or her mom remember me from Germany (early 80's) I was sad to read about dexter's untimely passing, he was a good friend, god bless.

What a shock to have stumbled across such sad news.  My condolences to Dexter's Family!  I didn't know Dexter that well, but what I had knew of him was Honest & Genuine.  And I will leave it at that! 

Dexter, Was just thinking of you and remembering what a great guy and boss you were. Miss your calls.

Just a little note to tell you you have been on my mind lately and I wanted you to know how much I think of you and miss you.  The world misses you - many people miss you.  Thank you for being you - the beautiful person you were. 

 

I know you were there when the baby was born - thank you.

Dear Anut Reenie and family,

 

You are on my mind today and I hope and pray that you are okay, hold on to your memories.

 

Love,

Donna and family

Dear Aunt Reenie,

I thought this was nice and somehow bring some comfort to you.

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Love,

Donna Eldridge Conrad

Dexter I hope you know how much you were and are loved.  Your friends and family meant the world to you and I guess you truly never knew what you meant to all of us.  I miss and talk to you every morning and night and only pray that you hear me.  You were my rock and there are not words that I know that describe how much I love you.  My head is always full of memories and through my tears I enjoy those memories.  I always thought you would be there for me and David in our golden years and remember that you kept saying we needed to get rid of alot of our stuff because you didn't want to fool with the mess and that you were going to put us in a nursing home.  Knowing you were joking, I just knew I would always have you in my life and everyday  I still shake my head in disbelief that you are no longer with us.  Everyone misses you and though them I still feel you existed.  I never want you to be forgotten.  I am soooooo proud to have been your mother.  As much as I have cursed God for taking you with the same breathe I thank him for letting me have you!!!   You were always my baby....  I love you

Dex, as I read the stories and memories it is so amazing how you touched so many people, you were loved by so many and you will never be forgotten, they say its not what you take when you leave this world  behind you, its what you leave behind you when your gone. you lived loved and laughed and left so many memories and happiness in each and every life you touched. I only hope I will or can be half the person you were. it is so rare to find such a genuine caring person who loves unconditionally without wanting in return. I know you were granted wings to fly because you are truly an angel. i miss you and I know you will be kind enough to hold the gate open for me when its time to meet again. love ya always doll.. kaeleen

I knew Dexter for a short time. He was left WAHS shortly after I arrived. Unlike most military kids, WAHS was my first overseas move and I was completely out of my element in a foreign country and quite lost. Dexter made entry into WAHS a bit easier.

 

From reading about his adult life, he seems to have carried on the same rapport with anyone he met. I read about all his family, friends, and all he enjoyed doing - and did, and it's easy to see that Dexter really lived.

I lost a dear friend (not from WAHS) also in October who also just seemed to embrace life with a never ending passion. It was sudden and left everyone stunned. Her absence is very much noticed. No doubt, those closest to Dexter are feeling the same pain.

 

My deepest sympathy to all of you - and thanks Dexter. I knew you only briefly, but have not forgotten your kindness.

I remember Dexter from high school.  I got to start my day sitting next to him in class.  We had a great time and it is one of my fondest high school memories...because of him.  He was a great guy back then, and I can only imagine the wonderful man that he had become.  My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. 

Dex. how will I ever find another you? so full of life? you had such a love for all things big and small and everyones best intrest at heart. I have so many things I didnt get to say. I hope you hear and feel them now. How do I tell you goodbye? I will hold on to every memory made. I know your gone but I will think of you. I cant find the light so I will think of you. And I hope you know I hold you in my heart each and every day. I will think of you when the dawn breaks and when the sun awakes. I just wish if I had a wish it would be to turn back time. Just to talk to you one more time. i just cant understand. The tears that fall are just because I left so much unsaid..Til we meet again miss you doll.. please Dex be with me I need your advice and your presence. miss you unimaginably.. love k

Dear Aunt Reenie,

 

I want you to know that I think about you all the time, I can't believe this happened! I cannot imagine the pain you are in. I wish I was near you so I could give you a hug, and let you cry and I would cry with you. I hope and pray that time helps. This is not right! Just please know that I love you and wish I could help you. I am here to talk to when your ready.

David, Shannon thank you, for helping mom. I know you are hurting too! If I can help or do anything please call me. I think about all of you often and pray for all of you.

 

I love you,

 

Donna and Family

I had the opportunity to go to the Florida Keys with Dex and dump allot of my problems on him but he always stayed positive. I cry just reading all of your kind words. He is a great man and one thing I will always remember when I was going crazy at work on a lunch break...he said, "Bill, you need to have an attitude of gratitude right now"...that helped...I got out of myself and the day got better.

 

Dex was always fun to be around...Devil Ray/Yankee games, at the bar. There are few people that could bring you to a positive level when you are down in the dumps. I just heard about this recently and am saddened. I met Dex at the Old Northeast Tavern and met his stepdad at The Pier where we had a great time.

 

To the family of Dex, I cannot fathom what you are going thru but he will be missed!

 

Bill Payne 

I only just heard about the Wurzburg High website from another friend and came across the posting about "Gabby".  I just wanted to pass on my condolences to Shannon and the rest of the family. May peace be with you all in these trying times.-Colleen

to the family  of dexter we are so sorry for your loss and  send our symathy  and our love at this time in your life  love your uncle richard from indiana

 

I sit and I read and I think how do we turn this sorrow around? I think we do something good, I think that is what Dexter would do. Dexter would have bought a gift for a child in need, or helped a stranger get across the street, held a door open for a senior, read a book to a child etc.

I think this is what Dexter wants for christmas this year, to take our pain and turned it into happiness for someone. This was Dexter, this is what he would do.

Anut Reenie, my heart is with you. I wish you peace and comfort this christmas. Hold on to each other, David thank you, for being here for Anut Reenie. I know your hurting to. Shannon and girls I am

so happy you are in Florida with mom.

Merry Christmas, I love you. Merry Christmas, Dexter

Dex, my sweetest. Yesterday was my birthday and even tho I didnt want to celebrate it, my friends did a good job of trying to make me have fun, Melissa was so sweet bcuz she hugged me and let me cry, she actually understands, hopefully you have met her husband Pete up there, he was a great person as well. but all I could do is remember that last year, we spontaniously flew to Maine, bcuz u wanted me to see snow for my bday. Dexter, I had the best bday EVER with you.We acted like little kids, throwing snowballs at eacother, and u were so sweet, kept making sure my gloves were on, to keep my hands warm. I have never, and will never meet a more thoughtful, caring, loving, fun,( I could go on on listing ur endless great qualities). Man in my life. I know you don't want me to be sad but I can't help it. I miss you so much, but have to be happy that we did get to spend such an amazing time together. I need you, I need totalk to, I need your advice. My whole world has been turned upside down, & I don't know what to do. Please send me a sign, hold me and let me know that somehow this happened for a reason, that nobody can ever understand. Be with ur mom and David, Christmas wo you is going to be hard, for everyone. I love and miss you TOO much. Muah! :^)

I was given the opportunity to work with Dexter at VZW.  He taught me alot to learn about the business.  He was not only a manager but a friend as well as a joker.  He always joked about David and his communicating skills....LOL.  I will never forget the day when he forgot to include the "L" in email.  David and I was waiting for the moment when he made that mistake.  We joked with him everyday, calling him "EMAI."  I enjoyed working with Dexter.  He hated for me to call him my BOSS.  He wanted to be called a friend. 

To Dexter's family.....I feel your pains.  I lost a brother, and recently a mother. My hearts goes out to the whole family.  Dexter will never be forgotten for the things he showed me about work, life, and being a successful person..... 

 

 

Think of you often. When I see a white SUV like yours, I look twice. Miss you Dex.

There's nothing more to say but than to look at the counter on this site and see it top 20,000 in such a short time.  THAT is our pain, and this is our comfort.  You did more with this "mortal coil" than I could dream of in life, and love.   What a blessing it was to have known you!

ITS HARD TO SEE MY UNCLE GO.HE WAS THE BEST THERE WAS.EVERY SUMMER WHEN I CAME TO VISIT ST.AUGUSTINE I WOULD ALWAYS BEG MY GRANDMA TO SEE MY UNCLE.KNOWING THAT I WILL NEVER SEE HIM,HUG,OR HEAR HIS VIOCE JUST HURTS MY HEART.THERE WAS SO MANY MEMMORIES THAT WERE INCREDIBLY AMAZING AND I WILL ALWAYS CHERISH THEM.HE'S A KIND OF GUY THAT EVERY PERSON COULD LOOK UP TO AND I'M GLAD THAT I COULD GET TO KNOW HIM.LET HIS SOUL BE WITH ALL YOU PEOPLE AND NEVER FORGET THIS DEAR PERSON.TO EVERY ONE HE WAS A GOOD SON,BROTHER,LOVER,FRIEND,AND AND UNCLE.GOODBYE UNCLE DEXTER.:(

The days go by and I still can't understand what happened. I feel an emptiness in my heart and it hurts. I miss you so much.

Our hearts still ache with sadness and our tears still flow. 

What it meant to lose you  No one will ever, ever know.  I miss

you dearly Dexter!

God, I cry a lot. And God said: that is why I gave you tears, I said: God I'm so depressed. And God said: that is why I gave you Sunshine, I said: God, I hurt . And God said: I know that is why I gave you loved ones. I said : God my loved one died. And God said : So did mine. I said: God its such a loss. And God said: I saw MINE nailed to a cross. I said: God, but your loved one lives. And God said: So does yours. I said: God, where are they now? And God said: Mine is on the right and yours is in the light. I said: God, it hurts! And God said: I KNOW.

 

 

While cleaning the other day, I came across a card that Dex gave me during a very difficult time in my life.He helped me so much then,& I feel that he still is. It has such a powerful, beautiful & uplifting msg, I want to share with all of you. "When it seems everything is falling down around us,something strong and certain within us is preparing to spread its wings and soar. I've seen you meet challenge and setback with wings of your spirit outspread, Transforming your pain into power, courageously moving ahead... So as you continue your journey, remember what I know is true- You'll once again rise on the wings of your soul, more graceful, more joyful, more YOU." Then Dexter wrote "Jesse, I am so proud of you. Things will only get better." It is so very true. It can't get any worse, now can it?? I keep remembering the day I was going through pics & letters from my sister & nieces, crying to him. He said "Do you just want to be sad? Why are you doing that to yourself? You can't change what has happened, you can only become stronger because of it. Remember the happy memories & cherish them, instead of the sad ones" So, I am trying to do what Dexter would want me to do. He wouldn't want us to be sad, he wants us to be happy. So remember the good times, learn from his example and just know that he is in a far better place now, looking down on all of us, sending us strength to get through this. We will be with him again, when God is ready for us. Until then, try to turn your pain into power,& spread the wings of ur spirit to couageously soar ahead. I love you Dex, thank you for all that you taught me, and for always being there for not only me, but EVERYONE you've ever met. Please help us get through this. We miss you TOO much ;-) Love ur Sweetpea

Dex, I can't believe your life has been cut so short. You must have been needed in heaven.  God always picks the best ones. I didnt get to say goodbye to you. I want you to know that knowing you and talking to you made a difference in my life. You were an amazing guy, funny and full of life. I am a better person because of you. You touched so many people and were the lucky ones that got to be a part of your life. I know your in a better place. My heart hurts but I am comforted knowing I have one more angel to be with me. Your soul was meant to soar. I miss you and I will miss your laughter and encouragement, your positivity and your eagerness to live life to the fullest each and every day. My heart goes out to your family, especially your mom you talked to me about her often. I will truly miss you. still cant believe your gone and I cant just shoot you a text message and get a funny reply. your famous words to me..."Take care doll" Miss you Dexter please always know your in my thoughts I wish there would have been more time.. love always kaeleen 

 David and Rennie, My heart goes out to you both. I can't say "i KNOW HOW YOU FEEL " BECAUSE i DON'T. I wish I would have gotten to know Dexter.  He must have been a remarkable person. Never hesitate to call and just chat. I will always be here for both of you.  Hopefully he is having a conversation with Dad and Dickie . Always remember THAT GOD ONLY TAKES THE BEST!!!!!

              LOVE TO BOTH

"Let's go on a road trip", Dex said to me one time 'way back in the day' after the passing of my sister and our brother James (Sandwich).  So we went; no particular destination in mind.  We talked for hours about many different aspects of life (and death), and, despite him being known as a joker, he displayed a serious, contemplative side to him that was truly a complement to his free spirit and innovative thinking ways.  A unique combination that is rarely seen, but greatly needed, in our world today.  Dexter, your ability to persevere and move on despite the circumstances is something that we all respected.  You will be missed by many.  God Bless your family and friends.

 

Footprints in the Sand

One night I dreamed I was walking along the beach with the Lord.

Many scenes from my life flashed across the sky.

In each scene I noticed footprints in the sand.

Sometimes there were two sets of footprints,

other times there were one set of footprints.

This bothered me because I noticed

that during the low periods of my life,

when I was suffering from

anguish, sorrow or defeat,

I could see only one set of footprints.

So I said to the Lord,

"You promised me Lord,

that if I followed you,

you would walk with me always.

But I have noticed that during

the most trying periods of my life

there have only been one

set of footprints in the sand.

Why, when I needed you most,

have you not been there for me?"

The Lord replied,

"The times when you have

seen only one set of footprints in the sand,

is when I carried you."

  

A friend recently sent me these words to comfort me during these hard times. Since they had such an effect on me - I wanted to share with everyone.
 
From Robert Fulghum’s All I Really Need to Know I Learned In Kindergarten:

    “Imagination is stronger than knowledge.”
    “Myth is more potent than history.”
    “Dreams are more powerful than facts.”
    “Hope always triumphs over experience.”
    “Laughter is the only cure for grief.”
    “Love is stronger than death.”
   

Dear Aunt Reenie,

 

I'am so proud of you! I just got done reading Dexter's Eulogy. What a great job you did! I was crying and then I was laughing and then crying again! It was beautiful. I hope you and David and Shannon are doing okay, I think about all of you often. I hope and pray that you are okay, if you need me just call and we can talk. Dexter would have been so proud of you! I know he was smiling in Heaven and said thats my mom!

 

I Love you,

 

Donna 

Anut Reenie,

 

I'am writing this for Margaret.

 

A son a motherwould be proud of, a loving brother,a best friend to his stepfather.

His willness to share everything he had, his absolute goodness, his complete gentleness, his sensitivity towards people made those who came in contact with him want to hug him.

So full of love for his family, his adorable smile that lights up his personality. He was a true gift from God, he was Heaven sent. And now he is your wonderful angel!

 

Love, Margaret,Laurie,Pat,Steven,Brian, Louie and Danny

Whew...this is tough.  I read Grant's email almost a week ago telling us about Dexter.  Man, I was in shock and couldn't believe it...still am.  I am so thankful that I was able to see Dexter at Grant's birthday party several months ago.  I'll cherish that forever. 

When I first went to UK, I had the great fortune of living next to Dexter.  We hit it off immediately.  Man, did we have fun pulling pranks and practical jokes on anybody and everybody we could.  Poor John Tilley!  I remember coming home from school one day and Dexter rushed over to the apartment with a small box in his hand.  We had talked and somehow I had mentioned to him that I liked hamsters and had them as pets when I was little.  Dexter had gone out that day and bought me a hamster and a cage...so it could keep us company.  He also named him..."Snapperhead".  That was Dexter, ALWAYS thinking of others.  So, while I want to cry, I find that I can think of those fun times with Dexter and it brings a smile to my face.  I'm so glad I have that!

Love ya Dex!!

Glenn

Michele and I are so grateful for the opportunity to meet Dexter's family and friends over the past few days and hope we can become as close to you as we were with Dexter.  Thank you for sharing the memories, jokes, pictures and tears.  Like many of you, we are still in shock and denial.

 

This morning I recieved a Zig Ziglas "Daily Insight" email just as I do every day, however this message was so touching and powerful that must have been sent direcly from Dexter:

 

25,550 Days
by Andres Ponciano

So I guess there's a point in life or perhaps a couple that make you stop and ponder things. It seems the older you get, the more you start to notice and fully comprehend that once you are born you also begin to die. Whether it is a morbid thought or not it is true. Whether we like it or not, it is still true, and unlike math two true's don't make a false, or is that backwards?

Doesn't matter. Math doesn't make sense. The point is its reflection time. Here's food for thought: Did you know how many days there are in the average lifespan? 70 years= 25,550 days. 75 years = 27,375 days. 80 = 29,200 days. 90 = 32,850 days. I read that in an article some time ago and it really jumped out at me. I thought to myself, damn that isn't very much. Especially considering I've lived 8700 of those already. So that is about a third of an average life span.

So the question is what now? How will you use your time? Time is the only thing that doesn't offer you a second chance in life. Once it is gone, it is gone. Definitely puts things into perspective. It seems life is really short as they say. Although I've never agreed with that statement I can understand it.

Are you living life to the fullest? Are you taking advantage of all the opportunities that come your way? Are you aware that most opportunities usually disguise themselves as hard work? Have you realized that most things worth fighting for are always difficult? Have you done what you planned to do? Have you gotten what you wanted? Have you left something for the next generations? Have you left your mark? Have you met all the people and visited all the places?

There is the story of the boy who said "I've got places to go and people to meet". That is what he did. So my friends, without much subtlety I say "don't let time pass you by without getting the most out of it." Take care of your health; take care of your relationships, whether with family, friends, strangers, God, loved ones and kids.

Take care of your work and invest time in becoming better and better and if possible even better, develop your talents, whether they are in art, music, sports, or any other aspect of life. And most of all instill a sense of love and gratitude for everything in your life. For in due time, unfortunately most things whither and die, but there are few that do remain. Those are entirely up to you!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Besides being on of our subscribers, Andres is a professional musician who has grown up all over the world. Life has many roads and he is trying to go through as many as he can. An adventurer, a writer, a musician, an old soul, a philanthropist, and everything in between. You can reach Andres at luzia@hotmail.com

Cherish every moment my friends

 

Obviously the last two days were hard on everyone. As I sat with friends and family members, I learned more and more about Dex. I had the pleasure to see Grant and Sean, who I had met in the past. Both were nice enough to open their home to me without knowing me. I would expect nothing more from a friend of Dex. I always thought his corny jokes were a way to get me to see humor that was not X-Rated! Sometimes we would trade jokes...his were acceptable to anyone, mine...not so much.

 

I met people I had heard so much about, but finally met for the first time. I wish Dex were there because he would share a story about each and every one of you that would have made you feel like a million dollars.

 

I had not talked to my mother in about 2 years. We got in an argument when I was in Chicago 2 years ago about her not letting me borrow her car to go to my Grandfathers grave.  I often talked to Dex about it because it tore me up to not talk to her, yet I thought I had to prove a point. After talking to Reenie today and hearing what Dex told her about grudges, I decided to call my mom on the way home from St Augustine. I did not bring up the past. I thought about the poem we heard about "the dash." I thought about Dexs relationship with his father by birth. Reenie told me about the last time he saw his dad. She told me about Dex always wanting to reconnect and now it is too late. I wish I could say so many more things to Dex, as we all do. I did not want to hold a grudge against my mother and not talk to her because I have learned how precious time is.  I talked to her for a few moments and let her go, as I could not stop thinking about Dex and had to cry.

 

I guess my point is that we all know what a wonderful person Dex is. HE cared more about a stranger than most people care about friends. We know all the wonderful things he did while he was here. Talk is cheap, but forever, in the back of my mind, I will always be asking myself...not WWJD, but WWDD...What Would Dex Do. We know Dexter and probably know exactly what he would do. Thinking about how Dex would react to a situation and following his lead will make us all better people. The memories we have of the time we spent with him will be with us forever. If we can take what we have learned from him, and apply it to our own lives, hopefully we will all meet again, and Dex will be there to greet us. He will tell us a corny joke (he will have sooo many that we will probably hve to cut him off), give us a hug, cook us dinner, tell us about the new business he created in Heaven (I cant wait to see this one), and take us on a tour showing us everything possible.

 

 

It made me think about my life and my future. Dex made me change the way I lived my life while he was with us. His legacy will have a lasting effect on how I live in the future. After today, the stock market doesnt mean as much to me. I have to work to pay the bills, but I dont have to put off family and friends to do more work. Time is precious and each moment should not be taken for granted. Dex did so many things most people cant even dream about doing. His free spirit and kind heart led him on the path of rightousness. As long as I am surrounded by people I love, I do the right thing, and am honest and true, I hope to one day be reunited with Dex.

 

Buddy...I know you were there in spirit today. I know you know the impact you had on people while you were here. I hope that you are watching down on us. Give us the strenght to follow the path you have laid out for us. May we remember you as the person you were, your thoughts deeds, dreams, and hopes.

 

David- As cliche as it sounds, this is one of the few times it is true...Dexter loved you like a father and a best friend. I remember hearing so much about you. When we finally met on Christmas, it was amazing to hear all the stories. I just wish Dex, you, and I got the chance to to go fishing like we planned.

 

David and Reenie- I wish you the strength and courage to move forward. We will never forget Dexter. May you live each day knowing he is in a peaceful place watching down on you. When you finally plant the Bamboo poles he gave you, something beautiful will spout. As Dex cries above because he misses you, the flowers will grow, reminding us of the power and impact he had on anyone and everyone he came in contact with. His cries are that of Joy. His smile was like a beeming ray of sun. As he smiles upon us each day, let us not forget the lessons he tought us. As humble of a man as he was, as he watches down on us, he will truly realize the impact he had on all of our lives.

 

I wish the family me deepest sypmathies. I wish Dexters Friends my deepest sypmathies.

The past two days were two of the saddest and toughest days I’ve had to endure in a long time, saying my final goodbyes to not only a great friend but a great person as well. I thank God for all the years of brotherhood I shared living with Dex during and after college, the golf trips and vacations with our friends, and just catching up with him on the phone.  As so many have stated, Dex was always able to put a smile on your face, make the room burst with laughter, or just be there when you needed a solid friend. With his endless creativity, he had a unique way of turning the ordinary into extraordinary. In hectic and challenging times, Dex was an inspiration to step back and savor our relationships with family and friends, appreciating the things that are truly important in life. I just wish he could have stayed with us a little longer to have his own family - his kids would have had one of the best fathers and friends anyone could ever ask for.  I’m going to miss you bud…I know you’re the hottest new member in Heaven and they’re so happy to have you.

Pure kindness,laughter, and love are my lasting memories of Dexter.  I haven't talked to him in many years, but never has his friendship lessened in my heart.  Dexter was a gift in my life.  Dexter has a spirit that raised others around him.  May he be at peace.

 

 

I never personally knew Dexter, but I worked with his mother for many years.  I know he was her pride and joy.  Reenie, one thing I'm sure of...what he did in his lifetime, most people can only dream of.  Rejoice in knowing what a complete person he was and how much happiness he brought to those around him.  Life is sometimes way to short and we never really understand why. But what a blessing someone like Dexter is to have around for even a short time.  He has not left you - you have a million wonderful memories and I'm sure he will be watching over you each day.  I'll keep all of you in my prayers. 

p.s. I'm so glad he finally got you a dog.

Talk about a stand-up man- That is Dexter Gabbard.  I have known Dexter for over 10 years.  I had the privilege to have Dexter work for me and we developed a close relationship.  He moved to FL and I moved to TX.  We talked on occasion and he always started up on another business idea.  I bet he has over 200 written down in his book.  The last time I saw him I knew why he was my friend.  I said I would remain close and visit more often. But as life goes, I didn't. <That is a life lesson>

 

 

I went to high school with Dexter and he and I later were part of the Army ROTC program at UK.  Dexter's endless humor, wit and positive spirit made him very popular with many groups and many people during the course of his life. But I think more importantly, Dexter was a friendly person who genuinely cared as much or more about others as he did himself.  I'll always remember that.  My prayers are with Dexter, his family and friends. 

I recall meeting Dex in high school after he transferred from Germany. Our lockers were located near each other because our last names both started with G and lockers were distributed alphabetically. My first impression was this guy had really long hair much like in one of the photos on this site. I enjoyed seeing this photo because it reminded me of how he looked upon first meeting him. My second and lasting impression was his winning personality. I knew in a moment this man would win hearts and forge endless friendships. As I read the warm comments from others on this page, it’s obvious to me he took his relationships to another level. This level can only be achieved by a person who is caring, selfless, thoughtful, sensitive and most importantly committed. That is Dex. I will always treasure the great times we shared together at UK and in Radcliff. My heart and prayers go to his family and all those he touched who are mourning our loss.

I wonder what kind of gadgets he is trying to invent in heaven now.

Dexter was truly a class act. I was fortunate to have known him through VZW and he was definitely one of the good guys. He always made things fun at work, always laughing and joking around and always had a good story to share. The kind of person he was is a direct reflection of his family and friends, you guys did an amazing job. My deepest condolences go out to you. To touch as many people as he did when here is such a gift. God bless Dex, we'll miss ya.