This is from a post by Teresa (John's/now my daughter....

Today I missed my father.

Not because he passed away recently but because in his last months he finally became comfortable enough in his own skin to be truly happy. He found a love like no other, one that was both freeing and complete. He found the love of his life, Joe Wright.

My father was a very determined man. He raised me on his own the best way he knew how. He taught me respect, and how to value myself as a woman. He sacrificed an incalculable amount to make sure I was taken care of, no matter what. My only regret is that he did not let me in to his new lifestyle sooner. He kept his homosexual relationship a secret from me, right until the very end.

He was trying to do what he thought was best. Protecting me, trying to keep anything that was going on with him from interfering with my own life. I wish that he had felt at ease enough to share what he was going through with me. After all, he was the one who made me the person I am.

All I can do now is continue on. I now have someone else in my life who has a depth of caring I have rarely seen. That person is my father's partner. Joe has been such a blessing in my life. I am so thankful to have him to talk to when I need a true friend. I know that my father loved him dearly, as do I.

Joe, you will always be a part of my life. Thank you so much for showing my father such unconditional love. I know we will both make him proud.

In my devastation I find comfort in this...

Thank you Teresa, from the bottom of my heart!