Tilton_spr09_mag:Layout 1 - Tilton School

They were looking forward to slowing down after Richard’seighth book, which was to be published in 1996. Theyplanned to spend more time in Florida and do many thingsthey had mentally saved for retirement. On August 1, 1995,D’Ann was diagnosed with uterine cancer. She died a littleover four months later on December 18 th .After the passing of his beloved wife, Richard’s four-yearspiritual journey, including some amazing and wonderfulexperiences, changed him from a skeptical, despairingagnostic to a firm believer in the hereafter. In this specialbook he simply offers to share these experiences with thereader, hoping his words may bring some comfort andhope to those who have been physically separated fromloved ones. The events, which have unfolded since D’Ann’spassing, according to Richard, have provided more thansufficient evidence that our spiritual life is never ending.We will see our loved ones again. You will not forgetRichard’s story.”In a letter to Tilton, Wainwright said, “Although it hasbeen many years since I have returned to Tilton, Tiltonplayed a significant role in my life as described in mybook, Closer Than We Imagine. Good wishes to all in theTilton Family.”Richard M. Wainwright ’55Royal Koi & Kindred Spirits“WhenTamiko Takedaleaves her homein Japan with herfamily for theUnited States,she is concernedabout adjustingto her new highschool, a newlanguage and anew culture.She’s alsoworried abouther beloved Koi, which are making the trip too. Wouldthey survive their journey? Would they adapt to theirnew home?What Tamiko can’t anticipate is the important role sheand her fellow students will play in bringing a communitytogether to improve the quality of life for all the town’scitizens – even future generations. As Tamiko makesfriends in her new school, she discovers thedevastating effect cancer is playing in the lives of someof her fellow students and their families. In order tohelp, she and her friends devise a plan that involves andtransforms the entire community. Tamiko’s personalsacrifice exemplifies how one person’s love can make ahuge difference.”Dr. Tom GarrottBenjamin Jr. ’60Mama’s Boy“In Mama’sBoy, Tom GarrottBenjamin Jr.takes the readerfrom those firstconfusing days ofhis train ride toCleveland intothe tender,sensitive heart ofa little boy whogrew up tobecome arespected man ofGod. All whoread Mama’s Boywill see it as a triumph of the human spirit that came aboutbecause of the love, prayers and nurturing of a single-parentblack woman who saw the best in a little boy, and who gaveher life to help make his every dream come true.This is a love story as tender as any love story could be.It is true. It is factual. It is painful. It is passionate. It ispromising. It is powerful. If you have ever suffered theterrible blow of rejection from another human being,Mama’s Boy will encourage you, strengthen you, and giveyou hope. Because where there was once emotional despairand physical darkness, the amazing grace and love of God,46 | Spring 2009