Read and Remember Eli

Learn more about our 2nd Annual Trivia Night event and Sponsorship opportunities. Mark your calendar for October 25, 2008.

Did you receive a book from the Read and Remember Eli Foundation? We would love to hear from you. Contact Us

Eli is the second of three children. He is survived by his twin sister and older brother. He brought so much joy to everyone who knew him. He loved music, Cookie Monster, and playing with his Bob the Builder and Darth Tater toys, but his most favorite thing was simply finding the nearest available lap to cuddle into while having a story read to him. I can think of no better tribute to his memory than sharing his love of storytime with other children and parents by providing local charities and organizations with new books for toddlers and preschool children.

The following is a poem written by Eli's aunt, Mary Hunt. The poem was distributed along with a rock inscribed with Eli's name at the funeral Mass. We have since heard from many people that were inspired by the kind words so we thought we would share the poem here.

KEEPING HIS SPIRIT ALIVE
By Mary Hunt

When a loved one goes before us, there is something to be learned.

We do not understand this one, Oh God we are concerned.

What is the point we've questioned you, for taking this little boy.

We still can picture him right now, holding his favorite toy.

Good friends and family have been there, to show how much they care.

The pain that's felt among us all is way too much to bear.

Life is fragile, we all have learned, so let's do honor it.

Priorities have changed a lot, I think we all admit.

Healing will take time. Many days, weeks, months and years.

Not to mention the obvious, so many many tears.

It's important to remember what you've learned from all of this.

Honor each other dearly, not a day without a kiss.

Eli's dear sweet spirit, will live on and on forever.

We can make sure of that, with an idea oh so clever.

Each of you should have a stone, his initials it does bear.

And everyday we ask of you, a good deed to show you care.

A simple smile to a stranger, or dollar to a bum,

With Eli's spirit in your mind, good things will then become.

Place it on your desk, or your console in the car.

Somewhere you'll see it everyday, his spirit not too far.

You could send a letter in the mail, to Jim and Michelle.

Maybe let them know, where your special stone does dwell.

And for Little Mr. Eli, we will miss oh so dearly.
We were blessed to have him in our lives, for sure we know that clearly!

Slideshow of Eli

And If I Go While You're Still Here
By Emily Dickinson

And if I go, while you're still here…
Know that I live on, Vibrating to a different measure Behind a thin veil you cannot see through.

You will not see me,
So you must have faith.
I wait for the time when we can soar together again,
Both aware of each other.

Until then, live your life to the fullest
And when you need me,
Just whisper my name in your heart,
…I will be there.