[David O. McKay Office Journal] The regular meeting of the First Presidency--the first without my dear friend, companion, and advisor--President Stephen L. I could not believe that he had gone, and kept looking for him to come in.
May 20, 1959: [This is a note by McKay's secretary.] President McKay is deeply grieved and shocked over President Richards' death--it is very noticeable that the passing of his beloved counselor and friend is weighing heavily on him.
[Source: McKay, David O., Office Journal]
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stephen_L_Richards
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ReplyDeleteMay 21, 1959: President McKay did not return to the office--was very shocked to learn that Sister Richards has suffered a mild heart attack--the shock of losing her husband has been too much for her.
May 22, 1959: [Note by secretary:] It was very evident to all present that it was extremely difficult for the grieving President to conduct the funeral services. However, he brought his emotions under control, and handled the situation masterfully--the services proceeded smoothly and efficiently. His emotions, however, were near the breaking point when he publicly said farewell to President Richards. There was hardly a dry eye in the whole audience. General Authorities on the stand were seen wiping their eyes with their handkerchiefs as the President said: "Goodbye for the present, Stephen L, my beloved friend. We shall miss you--Oh! how we shall miss you! But we will continue to carry on until we meet again. God bless you, Irene, and your choice sons and daughters. During this inevitable separation may there ever echo in your hearts, as if they had come from the voice of your beloved husband and father, the words of the Savior to his disciples when he had to leave them. . . ."
You're two steps ahead of me. :-)
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