Ladybug Story
by Theresa (Gage) Neal
Wife of J. C. and Catherine Neal's son, Tommy
September 26, 2013

Anyone who knew my mother-in-law, Catherine Neal, was keenly aware of her love of all things gardening, from the living plants and flowers to garden statuary and wrought iron décor, and everything in between. So how fitting it was to have a ladybug join us today as we celebrated Catherine's life during her funeral service at Trinity Lutheran Church.

I was sitting in the second row, right behind her husband, J. C. Neal. The ladybug first appeared to me as she explored the handle of Catherine's youngest great-grandson Tyler's diaper bag, as the bag sat on the pew next to me. I watched the ladybug with great interest, wondering just what she was up to. I soon knew whom she came to visit, for before long she flew to the top rail of the pew in front of me, where J. C., her beloved husband of 59 years, was sitting. The ladybug then moved to J. C.'s suit coat and proceeded to crawl over his shoulder and down the front of his jacket. At this point I saw her fly away, never to return.

This was all happening as the pastor was eulogizing Catherine and mentioning how gardening activity in heaven had probably picked up a bit lately. Maybe the ladybug's visit was just coincidence, but after the service I asked the pastor if he had ever known of a ladybug in that church, and he said no. I believe Catherine was there in spirit, comforting us in her own unique way. May she rest in peace.

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