The first thing I will have to do when Guy Stuart Philips and I meet again is apologize for not starting this moment off performing a magic trick he taught me. My hands simply don’t have dexterity necessary at this moment.
It occurs to me today that while we are all sitting here today thinking of Guy; he is somewhere already making friends and telling everyone stories about us. One of Guy’s fondest wishes was to be was remembered as a great Son, Brother, Husband, Father, and Friend. To know that we all thought well of him. To know he is in a better place.
The stories of how countless friends spent hours speaking with Guy the past few weeks are heartbreakingly tender. It meant everything to Guy, as would the presence of so many friends here today.
Guy was a presence in all our lives. He was an amazing friend to whom we had an emotional attachment, so strong and lasting, that it defied logic. Guy Philips had those dual qualities that are so seldom seen, exuding dynamism and excitement, but at the same time touching your heart. Guy’s friendship was richer and more compelling than words can adequately convey.
Vera, I can only hope that my wife, Sachiyo, and I raise our son as well as you did Guy. If the measure of a mother is the content of her son’s character – then Vera you have set the bar very high for Sachiyo and I. There are no words for this sad, sad moment but know your son, Guy, was terribly loved by all and touched more lives than this room could seat.
When I first met Guy he was preparing to leave for Ian and Nicole’s wedding. Guy was absolutely ecstatic about your pending nuptials and proceeded to tell me your entire love story. The love he had for the both of you was written across his face. Your brother was a great man; his passing has suspended reality for all of us. It was way too soon, and completely unfair on all accounts. We’ve lost a friend, you’ve lost a brother, and I can only begin to imagine your pain.
Guy was the proudest father that I have ever met. He beamed of joy when speaking of both his sons, Ethan and Chase. He was so proud that Chase was learning magic tricks and preforming them. He never missed a moment to tell me how much Ethan had grown and the new things you were learning every day at School. Your father shared with me how super cool the both of are and how much he loved swimming with you, looking at fish, and he said touching the turtles with you boys was the best. I know your father loved you both deeply and unconditionally.
Fiona, we gather today in mourning, but also in gratitude – that you shared such an amazing man with all of us. We mourn Guys’ death, but we are grateful for his life. It was the character of the man you married that so captured the trust and faith and affection of his friends. His life reminds us that there is a moral force in this world more powerful than us all.
My last memories of Guy Philips will be as fond as the first. None of us, Guy included, would want to be held to account for every moment of our lives. But how many of us could say that our greatest moments were as magnificent as Guys. I am positive all the moments I have shared with Guy will forever be cherished and remembered - as I am positive yours will be too.
I know God has a place for Guy to perform his Magic again, to tell his amazing stories, and smile that boyish smile. Because God knows, no one is perfect, and God knows there is something special about Guy Philips.
May God bless you all and give you comfort in this difficult time.