Daniel James Andrade

One day God was sitting by His pearly gates, looking over a very long list. He thought to Himself, “I need a fellow up here—not too old, not too young. Someone who can make people laugh, keep everyone talking, and brighten Heaven a little more.”

He scanned the names and considered what He was looking for. He wanted someone hardworking, someone who never shied away from helping others. Someone who loved to read, always seemed to have a book in his hand, and would never turn down a good game of chess. Someone creative with words, who could tell a story, hold a conversation, and turn an ordinary moment into something memorable.

God wanted someone who loved music and played the guitar. Someone who was convinced he knew just about everything, and who could strike up a conversation with absolutely anyone about absolutely anything. Someone sarcastic enough to keep people on their toes, someone who appreciated a good witty T-shirt, and someone who could make others laugh even on their hardest days.

He wanted someone who believed—against all odds—that the Dallas Cowboys would finally go 17–0 every single season. Someone who thought he was a pool shark, even if others occasionally questioned that title. Someone who enjoyed a cold glass of oranges with just a little bit of Blue Moon mixed in. Someone who snored loudly enough to remind everyone nearby that he was sleeping peacefully. Someone who spent countless hours playing with Caleb (often telling him “you dropped your pocket”) and who, after years of disappointment, finally received a White Elephant gift he actually liked this past Christmas.

Most importantly, God wanted someone whose heart belonged completely to his family. A man who loved deeply and without reservation. A father who adored his daughter, his “Da,”; who celebrated her accomplishments, encouraged her dreams, protected her fiercely, and loved her beyond measure. A son, brother, nephew, cousin, and friend whose presence brought comfort, laughter, and unwavering loyalty.

Then God looked down at His list, smiled, and said, there is only one person for this job.

And God said, “Daniel, come home to Me.”

He wrapped him in His loving arms and whispered, “BJ is here waiting for you.”