As some may recall, I took the month of March off from playing at Ernest's, and of course have not returned and won't for some time.
Today this devastating news came. One of Ernest's good friends, and mine, Reverend Ronnie Hampton, died from the coronavirus. We called him the Rev. He conducted the service when Ernest's mother died a couple of years ago.
Even though I wasn't there, I am certain that Ernest and a number of staff and customers were with him within the past few weeks.
The last time I saw him was in late February and of course we shook hands, but that should have been well before he contracted the virus.
If I had contracted it from him, it would have shown up by now.
My fear is for the staff and customers who were in contact with him.
His ministry was with the poor, homeless, needy, down-trodden of the community.
I'm sharing this to show how it can affect any of us and to say we can't be too careful. I feel blessed that I was removed from this particular environment.
As a favor to me, and to honor the Rev., I'm hoping you will read this short story about him that appeared today.
Reverend Ronnie Hampton

His thoughts are beautiful ...

Yes, this points out that we must be diligent, but we also cannot allow this thing to consume us, and make us fret with every thought and movement ...

I am sorry for the loss you, his family, congregation, and friends are feeling ...

Don, one of the reasons for people believing in a higher power, which I call Jesus, is that we believe that we have a place to go after we leave here. No one can physically prove the existence of a God; we just made a decision to believe.

I’m sure that your dear friend, Reverend Ronnie Hampton has gone to a better place. That is what he believed. I myself at 88 years of age believe as he did. Because of my belief the number 88 does not trouble me.

Don, Reverend Ronnie was a good man, just as you are. I pray for you and your family; may you have peace during this difficult time.

Caring, John C.

Don my deepest sympathy for your reverend how sad...
May he rest in peace..

Thanks guys. I'm really worried about Ernest. I know he hasn't been feeling well and he's not answering his phone.
Edit: I just talked to him. He is still having a little fever, but no chest problems or cough. He is staying away from everyone until he feels better. I'm trying to convince him to go get tested. He is really upset about the Rev of course.
Thanks for letting me share this personal stuff. It helps to write it down.

So sorry for your loss Don, and be careful out there! I heard that Louisiana, and especially New Orleans is a real hot spot right now. Like medical care workers, clergy take a huge risk when they console people afflicted with this terrible disease. His reward is in Heaven!

Don,

My condolences on the loss of Reverend Ronnie Hampton. May he rest in peace. At least where I am in Florida people are taking precautions, but others don't seem to be taking it seriously thinking they are immune.

Sorry to hear that news Don. These times are scary times. Hopefully "This too shall pass" and that, soon, life will return to normal without devastating our ranks.

Don, Sorry to hear about “The Rev”. He sounded like a wonderful human being. It just shows no one is immune from this terrible virus. A 39 year old well known DJ in the Fort Myers area past away last evening surrounded by his wife and children. God bless us all

Don, sorry for your loss.....it's pretty scary right now...
Lee