Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Billy -
Watch over the guys while they are in New York and help them to be strong. I want them all home safe and with, yet, another new appreciation for life. We miss you and you know we think of you often. Bless us all.

A friend

Hi Billy, just couldn't get you off of my mind today. Tomorrow is 9/11 and Friday is the 13th (10 months) -- two dates forever etched in my mind. Tomorrow there will be memorial services for all those lost on 9/11 last year but, believe me, you will be right at the top of the list. Seems like starting with 9/11 last year, things just went downhill, then we had our own 9/11 here on 11/13 and things haven't been the same. I'm sure they never will. I haven't seen Prissy or that darling little daddy's girl for awhile now but pray for them each and every day. I hope I'll get to see them soon. Rest well, 762. You're forever in our hearts.

Melody

BILLY
SORRY IT HAS TAKEN ME SO LONG TO GET ON THIS PAGE. YOU KNOW HOW I'AM ABOUT SHOWING MY FEELING. IT'S BEEN ALMOST SIX YEARS SINCE YOU AND I SAT TOGETHER ON THAT DAY IN OCT. 14 1996 CLASS 253. IT WAS SUCH A GREAT YEAR AND WE HAD SUCH A TIME WITH THINGS. I CAN'T SAY THEY WERE ALL GREAT, I KEEP REMEMBERING THE TIME YOU FELL OFF THE SECOND STORY FLOOR TRYING TO WAKE ME UP BECAUSE I HAD FORGOTTEN MY WATCH. THAT'S JUST THE KIND OF GUY YOU ARE! BOY WE HAD SOME GREAT TIMES IN OWENSBORO WHEN YOU CAME TO STAY. I THINK YOU CAME TO SEE ME MORE THAN MY OWN FAMILY. HOW ABOUT THAT MOONLITE! FRAZIER HAS HAD A HARD TIME DOWN THERE IN THE LAST FEW YEARS. MARTIN, AND CASTLE ALWAYS TALK ABOUT YOU WHEN THEY SEE ME. JEFF GOT MARRIED AUG 24, AND KELLY HELD ME TOGETHER BECAUSE I KNOW THAT YOU WOULD HAVE BEEN THERE. I TALK TO DAVE AND BO OFTEN. DAVID,TRACY AND I TALK ALMOST EVERYDAY. I HAVE'NT TALKED TO MRS. WALLS IN A WHILE, I REALLY DON'T KNOW WHAT TO SAY TO HER. YOUR LITTLE GIRL'S PICTURE SIT'S ON KELLY AND I'S NIGHT STAND. KELLY HOLDS ME TOGETHER WHEN I HAVE HAD TOO MANY TO DRINK AND START THINKING ABOUT YOU. THAT'S WHY I TRY NOT TO DO THAT VERY MUCH. EVERY DAY IS HARD! WITH OUT YOU IN IT! I WILL WRITE YOU MORE. YOU RIDE WITH ME EVERYDAY. THE JOB HAS CHANGED FOR ME SINCE YOUR PASSING. IT DOES'NT GET ANY EASIER ! I MISS YOU!
CASEY

PATROLMAN
FRANKFORT

September 11, November 13, a lot of sadness, memories. All I can do is pray for your wife and child, I hope you understand,Billy.You must have lots of new friends, I am so happy for you, sad for us "left behind", but knowing we will all be together soon....
John 14:3

Billy,

We only met once, but I am getting to know Priscilla and Kaley well because we live down the street from one another. Kaley is so precious! I think my little boy may be smitten with her! That would be a great match! You have the most amazing wife. She has a strength that is so rare. I am so proud to call her a new "friend"
and I will be here to listen, laugh and cry. I pray each day for she and Kaley. I am learning so much about you and the love you share for one another. Priscilla is truly blessed to love such a wonderful man. I know you are watching over she and Kaley. Take care of them both, as they are so very special. My life is so blessed
to be able to look down the street and know they are just a few doors away.

Lisa G. Fields

Lisa G. Fields

Hey baby
November is almost here. This year has gone by so very fast, but points of it has stood still in time. Words will never begin to explain what I feel for you and what we had. What we had, something very special. But in the same time baby......Help me send me someone that can understand, that will be there for Kaley and myself, someone that cares about what is going on in our lives and will join us for us not another reasons in life. We got married to be together forever so that we wouldn't have to do this s**t again. But here I am, in this world again. And I hate it. Everybody says that I will be just fine and everything will workout and everything happens for a reason..... Reason....I lost my loving husband for a reason.....OKay Please explain....

I love you so very much and miss you even more. Please if you have any say up there. Help me understand, help me find my way through this messed up world.

Prissy

Hello old friend. Hows things looking from up there? We all still miss you. In a lonely hotel room tonight. I can't get you and Chuck out of my mind these days. Sammy seems to be coming along ok. I guess you already knew that.
I feel funny writing you notes on this page. I guess though it will have to do. Darb got through the academy. Should have seen him! I don't think his feet ever touched the ground. Hope Mr. Darby got to see! We all loved that man!
Not to good with words old friend especially on this page. See you old friend. Put in a good word for us!

hey bill I just had to write today BIG 43 tommrow. It just does not feel or seem fair to have a birthday. WE still play HEARTS&CROUQUET but is not the same and never will be. That KAYLEY bug is something special she is so smart and indepandent you would be so proud of both of them K&P. gotta go now person should never cry on their BIRTHDAY 8-23-02

UNCLE JEFF

jeff parido
uncle

We made it. You helped me through hard times and I thought of you all the time when I was there. I'm going to your memorial today. I saw Prissy and the little one yesterday they are great. They both miss and love you very much. All of us do. No one will forget you or what you did for us. I hope your wife and daughter will always know, there are people who love them, and will never forget them.

Trooper Shawn Darby
Kentucky State Police

August 17, 2002

Dear Billy -

Uncle Johnnie just arrived a little while ago . . . . only 13 weeks after Aunt Nettie. I'm thrilled for them--after being married for 56+ years here on earth, they can now enjoy eternity together, in God's presence and without any more pain and suffering. For that we are so grateful. However, their 4 boys and all their family and friends who love them are so stunned and grief-stricken; it'll be another long road. I'd appreciate it if you'd be available to them both in case they need a hand, and please tell them how very much I love and miss them. I wonder how many gaping holes a heart can sustain before it just breaks completely?

You take care of yourself, Billy; we surely do miss you. Thanks for keeping an eye on everybody.

With love and appreciation,

Susan Prater

Billy, Mickey and I went to see your headstone today. It's a wonderful tribute to your life and all of the things you accomplished during your short number of years here on earth but I have to tell you that going back there nearly took my breath away. I will never forget that day but, more importantly,I will always treasure the fact that I knew you. Just wish I could've known you longer, my friend.

Melody

nine months, seems hard to believe, you have a lot of new officers up there, most of them your age, you will never be forgotten, that laugh, those eyes full of mischief....take care, Billy.

August 15, 2002

Dear Billy,

You've been on my mind even more than usual these past few days. When this poem came across my path, I felt that you and Aunt Nettie could have easily written it, so I wanted you to see it. I'd appreciate it if you'd share it with Aunt Nettie. Uncle Johnnie will be joining her within hours, unbelievably enough; our hearts are shattered, but we know there's going to be a glorious celebration and reunion when he arrives. Please make a special effort to get to know him, too--he'll keep you organized and in great spirits!!

LETTER FROM HEAVEN

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say.
But first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from Heaven; here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I am with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you.

It's good to have you back again, you were missed while
you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly, you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."

God gave me a list of things that He wished for me to do,
And foremost on the list was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight,
God and I are closest to you ...in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years,
Because you're only human they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry--it does relieve the pain;
Remember, there would be no flowers unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned,
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er: I'm closer to you now than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
But together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy, and I'd like it for you, too--
That as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
Then you can say to God at night..."My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented...that my life was worthwhile...
Knowing as I passed along the way I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
Just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street and you've got me on your mind,
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go, from that body to be free,
Remember you're not going . . . you're coming here to me.

[Ruth Ann Mahaffey]

You're missed so much.

With love,

Susan Prater
Friend

August 13, 2002

Billy,

I can't tell you how many times I have pulled up this 'Leave a Reflection' page, stared at it and then just exited it. There is so much to say, but no way to say it. We miss you so much.

I love the new house. It's just what you would have chosen. David and I both can see you sitting out on the deck. Prissy did great.

Our kids are growing up playing together, just like we knew they would. When we left the other day, RoyseAnn asked us, "Where is Kaley's Daddy?" It was probably the toughest conversation David and I have ever had. We were both proud to tell her that Kaley's Daddy was our friend and always will be.

We love you Billy,
David and Tracy

Officer Tracy Day
FCPS Dept. of Law Enforcement

Hey baby
9 months have gone by and so much has happened. I have been in the house for a month now. Kaley is starting to like it more and get use to it. It is so cute she takes a picture that I have of you two playing playstation, and walks around the house with it saying "dadadadadada."

It kills me that you are not here to see all she is doing. Billy she is so smart. You would be so whipped(as if you weren't already). Her big blue eyes, blonde hair she would have had you, like she has all of us.

I love you so much and miss you even more. Not a day goes by that I don't think of you, I am trying to do so things with FOP to make sure that nobody forgets and that your name will always be remembered.

Keep a watch out. I really miss you baby.

Love always
Prissy.

My Dear Billy,

There is not a day that goes by that I don't think of you. But today has been a really hard day. I miss you so. I wish that I could pick up the phone and call you. You always had a way to calm me down and tell me that things will work out. I cannot believe it has been 9 months since that horrible day that you were snatched away.

Please look over your little brother. He is not doing well. I have not been to KY to see Pris and Kaley for a few weeks and I look forward to getting my Kaley fix. She looks just like you did at that age. That is both comforting and also makes me realize how it seems like yesterday that you were that little and so full of life, curiosity and mischief.

Today is one of those days that the tears come way too easy and I find myself thinking about you, rather than working.

I let Michelle take the Jeep to Purdue and she agrees with me that when we are driving, we feel as though you are there with us. I've even bought a LoneStar CD and play it often.

This is going to be one of the times that I don't want to unplug my blue light when Wednesday comes. I hope you know how much we love and miss you.

Mom

762,
Today makes nine months that you so suddenly left us. I think my feelings can be shared in a few simple words.

Looking back I was very lucky to have served beside such a dedicated professional. You did your best on EVERY call and gave each your all. You were always ready, always willing. I am very proud of you for your performance both before and on that tragic day, and I am very proud of your legacy that will always continue...

It was an honor and I will NEVER forget.

Love, 775

Trp. John Ballard
Kentucky Horse Park Police

Billy, 9 months ago this morning you left us. I can still re-live that whole scene out in my mind as if it were yesterday. Through the absolute chaos, I prayed so hard that it would turn out differently but, for reasons we simply can't understand yet, God needed you to patrol the Heavenly streets. I'm absolutely positive you're having a wonderful time and sometimes I can actually smile when I think about it. Our loss was certainly Heaven's gain. We miss you.

Melody

August 13, 2002

Dear Billy,

Even after nine months, you are still uppermost in our thoughts daily. There are so many reminders . . . . .

We're all trying to get on with our lives despite the grief and pain that never leaves us. Though our circumstances are constantly changing, and always will, our thoughts of YOU will remain the same. You will stay in our hearts and minds throughout our lives, forever young and energetic and so full of life, and we will never stop missing you and mourning your senseless loss. If only . . . . if only. . .
if only . . . . .

You've been joined by many brothers and sisters in law enforcement over these nine months, much to our sad dismay; you all must be an awesome Heavenly force! We'd appreciate your keeping an eye on us, and rest assured we will hold you in our hearts until time to join you. You're very special, 762; rest easy.

Our love,

Susan & Louis Prater
Friends

Missing you like crazy. Your love is felt every second of everyday. I love you

A MESSAGE FROM HEAVEN



PERHAPS YOU AREN'T READY YET
TO HAVE TO SAY GOODBYE.....

PERHAPS YOU'VE THOUGHT OF THINGS
YOU WISH YOU'D SAID.....

WELL SO HAVE I.

FOR ONE THING, I'D HAVE TOLD YOU
NOT TO WORRY ABOUT ME.....

I'M WITH THE LORD
IN HEAVEN NOW-
YOU KNEW THAT'S WHERE I'D BE.
I'M SORRY THAT YOU'RE FEELING SAD,
FOR I'M SO HAPPY NOW.....

I'VE ASKED THE LORD
TO EASE THE HURT
AND COMFORT YOU SOMEHOW.

IT'S HARD AT THE BEGINNING, BUT I
KNOW YOU'LL MAKE IT THROUGH.....

I HOPE IT HELPS TO KNOW
THAT I'LL BE WAITING HERE FOR YOU.

KIMBERLY

I DID NOT KNOW YOU AND I AM "NEW" ON THE SCENE WITH CENTRAL DISPATCH...BUT NOT A SHIFT GOES BY THAT YOU ARE NOT ON MY MIND. I STRIVE TO DO MY BEST EACH AND EVERY TIME I GET BEHIND THE RADIO BECAUSE OF THE MEMORIES THAT I HEAR EVERY DAY. NOT A SHIFT GOES BY THAT YOUR NAME IS NOT MENTIONED IN A "REMEMBER WHEN" TIME OR SOME STORY BY AN OFFICER OR DISPATCHER THAT IS IN HERE. IT MAKES ME WISH THAT I HAD BEEN ABLE TO DISPATCH FOR YOU. I READ THESE REFLECTIONS AND TEARS ROLL DOWN MY FACE BECAUSE I AM SAD FOR PRISSY AND KALEY AND THE REST OF YOUR FAMILY AND CANNOT EVEN FATHOM WHAT THEY GO THROUGH EACH AND EVERY DAY BECAUSE IT IS VERY EVIDENT FROM THESE REFLECTIONS AND THE STORIES THAT I HEAR IN DISPATCH THAT YOU WERE LOVED, RESPECTED AND CHERISHED. JUST KNOW, PRISSY THAT YOU ARE IN MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS EVERY DAY FOR GOD TO GIVE YOU THE STRENGTH TO MAKE IT THROUGH ONE MORE DAY. ALWAYS REMEMBER THAT WITH HIM, YOU CAN AND WILL MAKE IT THROUGH.

PATTY BAKER
JESS CO.CENTRAL DISPATCH

Hey baby
This has been such a bitter-sweet.......I have got all the stuff in the house now. Very lonely. Kaley has been staying with mom the past couple nights so that I can try and unpack. Unpacking is very hard, there are so many things I want to put out just because they were yours. But in the same moment I don't. It is very strange being in the house without you around. I now hear every little sound that is in a 10-mile area. Nobody to check everything out for me.
Kaley likes it, she runs from room to room looking out the windows. I just wish you were here to see EVERYTHING. I miss you so very much. I am doing all the things by myself. Bills, they do have dates funny. Just need to learn the yard work thing....... Cooking, cleaning......I have to do it to it's not done when I get home now......

I love you and miss you badly

Prissy

Our Dear Friend Prissy,We want you to know that we think of you and Little Bit often. We know the pain you are in and we want to tell you that Billy is watching over you girls every day. He knows how beautiful you both are and how much you love him. We wish there was somthing we could do for you, but this is one road you will have to walk yourself. He will always be watching and smiling at Little Bit as she races through the years. There will always be tears for Billy and there will be smiles for the memories. In a case like this,you remember all the good things and forget all the bad,for the good will outweigh the bad. Only those who know you well know how wonderful you have been through all of this. We are proud to call you our friend. May God bless you and Kaley and watch over you every day.

Elsie and Glenda--friends

8 months today -- nothing really new to say, just wanted you to know we miss you, friend. Time marches on but your memory is alive and well in all of us. It is comforting to know that you are resting safely in the arms of God.