Blogger: Rachelle Gardner
Dear friends, I am heartbroken to tell you that our dear friend, Books & Such client Rachel Held Evans, died early this morning at the age of 37. She became ill in mid-April, then took a serious turn on Thursday morning and deteriorated quickly. Rachel died surrounded by her family and her close friends — we sang and we prayed and we held her.
Rachel leaves behind her husband Dan, and their two children, ages 1 and 3. If you’d like to tangibly help the family, there is a GoFundMe page.
The official media story is here on Slate.
Here are Dan’s updates on the progression of Rachel’s illness the last couple of weeks, and his final statement after her death.
If you’d like to send a personal card or note to Rachel’s family, you can use this mailing address: The Evans Family, c/o Chaffee Management, 5020 Burke Trail, Nolensville, TN 37135 USA.
We are grateful for your prayers and for all the ways you have supported not only her, but her family, especially Dan and the kids.
Andrew Budek-Schmeisser
Prayers for Dan, the kids, and the family…and for you, Rachelle, because she was your friend.
Clothing that still bears the scent,
the unfinished spine-cracked book.
The tools that were so gladly lent,
and keys hanging on a hook.
All is caught in amber now,
behind a dusty velvet rope,
an exhibit shorn of why and how
yet imploring us to hope.
In this mute appeal is legacy
that’s entrusted to our hands,
an earth-completed destiny
now still as hourglass’ sands.
‘Tis a bright and delicate flower
that we’ll carry through the years,
kept alive through every hour
in our well-remembered tears.
They were never ours, those who sleep,
but they left their hearts for us to keep.
Judith Robl
Thank you, Andrew, for speaking my heart. Even though my spirit knew, the reality is difficult.
Andrew Budek-Schmeisser
Judith, I think that God made the world round so we can’t see too far down the road.
Judith Robl
Yes, Andrew. We need to know that it is enough that nothing surprises God. I learned that a couple of decades ago. And we can trust him with everything. It’s how I’ve gotten through as many things as have happened in my life. Sometimes he gives me a knowing in advance so that I’m not completely devastated when things fall apart. He is always faithful. His presence and love get us through the crises. But I”m preaching to the choir here. You know all this. From personal experience. You, also, are in my prayers. Today and every day.
DiAnn Mills
Dan, family, and friends,
Praying for God’s comfort in this time of grief. The whys of this life confuse and break our hearts. Reach out to the arms who love you most.
Judith Robl
For all of you who knew and loved Rachel in person, my thoughts and prayers are with you. May God surround you with his loving presence in tangible ways and fill you with his grace and peace.
Jeanne Takenaka
My heart is broken for Dan and Rachel’s children. I’ve prayed for all four of them over the past few weeks, and I will continue to pray for Dan and their children.
Sue Harrison
Condolences, prayers, tears, and deep sympathy in the loss of Rachel. She was an amazing woman, and she touched many lives. Gratitude to Books & Such, Rachelle, and all who opened the doors for her words to brighten the world.
Davalynn Spencer
Praying for Dan and the children. May the Lord pour His peace and healing into their hearts.
Cheryl Malandrinos
I read about this today in the news. How sad for her family and friends, but what a glorious time for Rachel as she has been welcomed home. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.