Page 329 of The Texas Sterling Collection
The rest of the tour included a stop in a classroom where students were learning about rodeo and the variety of options available to them. When Dr. Hoffstedder announced that Wyl and Rod were descendants of Dr. Bonner and Joseph Sterling, the students had many questions. Wyl and Rod didn’t get back to Blackfield that evening.
On the drive to Blackfield the following day, Wyl said, “I think we found a good use for some of our money.”
Rod smiled. “I thought the same thing. How about we each donate? You donate $100,000 in honor of Joseph Sterling, and I’ll donate $100,000 in honor of Felix Bonner.”
The smile split Wyl’s face. “I like that idea, babe.”
Chapter Thirty-Four
A week later, the memorial people called. The headstone for Joey’s grave was ready. They piled into the diesel dually and went to pick up the marker.
The stone carver showed them the finished piece. Rod inspected the plain marble marker, rounded on the top. He fingered the deeply carved lettering. “It’s perfect.”
Wyl put his arm around Rod’s shoulders. “It’s a great tribute to our great-great uncle.”
The carver handed Wyl the invoice. “The stone weighs almost 250 pounds. Would you like me to deliver and install it?”
“The grave is on our ranch. Can you deliver and install it there?” Wyl handed the carver his credit card.
“Sure. I have a lift on my truck that makes it easier to work on. We’ll dig down about three feet to give it a solid seat. I’ll bring my guys to do that for you.”
“That would be great,” Rod said. “I didn’t realize it would be so heavy.”
* * *
Later that afternoon, they stood by Joseph’s grave. The stone was set, and Joseph’s final resting place was marked correctly.
Wyl wrapped his arms around Rod from behind as they looked in silent reverence at the grave. He whispered in Rod’s ear. “We’re a family tradition, you know.”
“God bless the family.” Rod nodded as he folded his arms tightly over Wyl’s.
Here Lies
Joseph Sterling
1881 - 1898
Son
Brother
Best Friend
The End
