PHILLIP
(Mom’s view)
He was only 2 years old when they said
Words any mom would dread
He will never be normal they would say
I refused to listen and said go away
He’s just slow I said, he’ll come around
Hoping for a miracle soon would be found
Finally I had to admit it’s all true
He’ll never become like me and you
Now uncertain of what lays in store
Would he go on to college or something more
What would the Lord have him to be
It’s now 16 years later, Lord I see
He came to show us how to live life to it’s utmost
Without worry, complaint or boast
He showed us how to be happy everyday
Don’t let anything bother you come what may
He took life’s disappointments in stride
Truly the Lord was on his side
So may we always remember my son Phil
As one who was doing God’s will
The Bible says to let your light shine
Well my Phillip did that just fine
His cheery face and winning attitude we will miss
But, not if we remember this
To live as God would have us to live
Happiness and God’s love we must always give
If one person can’t make a difference, why did the paper say
Over 220 people came out to pray
He made a difference and so can you
Just let your light shine for the Lord too
Carol Liles
May 1996
PHILLIP TJHOMAS HOAG
P=Patient
H=Happy
I=Intelligent
L=Lively
L=Likeable
I=Individual
P-Pleasant
T=Trusting
H=Helpful
O=Obedient
M=Memorable
A=Active
S=Special
H=Honest
O=Original
A=Amazing
G-Gentle
Together you have PHILLIP THOMAS HOAG
May the things we learned from this special boy, be put into our own lives. I believe it was God’s intent for us to share Phillip’s life with others. For Phillip gave from the heart, without expecting anything in return. The way it is suppose to be with everyone. We all have been touched in some special way by this boy. Thank you Phillip for showing us all how better to follow Jesus’ footsteps. Thank you Lord for 16 wonderful years.
Carol Liles
Dec 1996
PHILLIP HOAG
Phillip was born in Raleigh, N.C. when he was 2 years old we learned he was a special needs child. He was very Intelligent, his mind worked faster than this communication skills. He also had a fantastic memory. He liked so many things. Some of his favorite things were Video games, Computers, Geography, game shows, and music. He got great joy helping others. His favorite tv shows were; Wheel of fortune, Family matters & Looney Tunes. His favorite Music artist was Gloria Estefan. His favorite food was pizza.
He was not one to complain about anything no matter what. He was always a very happy and carefree boy. His mission was to please others and having fun. He was happy whether he was sick or not. This made it hard to know when he was sick. I had to look for signs. If he didn’t eat any or a lot, if he wants to lay down a lot. Then you knew he was sick. He rarely cried, he was the most happiest boy, full of life and active. Always has a smile on his face and singing a song as he goes through his day.
In school he was doing very well, His progress was so amazing to all of us. He was going to be mainstreamed to more subjects had he lived. He was on his to being taking vo-tech and prepare him for college or a career. In the summer of 95 he had a summer job with the aid of a supervisor h e was helping at the Boy Scout Camp cleaning the area he got paid for his time there. I’ll never forget when he got his first paycheck. We went to the bank and opened his own bank account. Putting all but $20 in the bank he had great pride of what he had accomplished.
His main goal now was to go to Walmart and get a tape by his favorite music artist. With money in the wallet he was given, he walked straight to the music department. Got Gloria Estefan’s Into the Light cassette and proceeded to pay for it at the register. Once paid and putting the change in his pocket he walked out with pride and happiness. He would tell anyone who would listen about his great purchase.
Throughout the summer he put most money in the bank, keeping a small amount for him to spend however he wished. Mostly he bought gifts for others, that was just his nature. He thought more about others then himself. Giving gave him great pleasure. It was clear to see when he would collect for charities as well. He was very happy to help others.
Phillip is the reason I continue to help raise money and give it in his memory. For during his time on earth the joy you see in his eyes as he collected the money and then giving it to the local TV personality. His joy and happiness what genuine and pure. The last charity he helped with was Easter Seals in March of 1996. I am so glad I as able to get that on tape. It’s a treasure for years to come.
I hope this paints a good picture of what Phillip was like. He was a special needs child full of love and compassion.He impacted so many lives during his short time with us. He will always will be a in our hearts till the end of time.
Carol Liles
Feb 1997
PHILLIP’S LAST BIRTHDAY
Today is Phillip’s last birthday, he would have been 17 years old. Just last year he was given his
16h birthday party that he wanted. With no idea just how special that birthday would be. It was at
The local arcade at the mall. He had invited many of his friends from church and school. As the guests came I was delighted to see so many come. He was so excited each time someone came in. He was just bubbling over with anticipation and excitement. His eyes would light up each time another person came in.
I was having such a good time watching how happy he was, the thought of getting the camera to get
Pictures. I guess it was God’s way of allowing me to have some wonderful mental pictures and the great memory of seeing him so happy. All the kids that came made sure Philip had the best birthday ever. Indeed he did, everything was just perfect for him. From the gifts to the food and all the fun that surrounded him.
Now we have the memory of his smiling face glowing with delight as he opened his presents. As he shared time with those who came to the party Everyone went all out to make sure Phillip had a good time. I’ll never forget those young people who made Phillip’s birthday so special.
What great relief to know how much they cared about him. They all came because they wanted to. That means so much to me more than anything. When you have a special needs child like Philip you often worry and wonder how the other children will take to him. That day I had m answer. I found he was respected and accepted by this great young people. But more important than that is to know he was also dearly loved by them all as well.
Carol Liles
April 9, 1997
PHILLIP’S 17TH BIRTHDAY
When your child dies, things change in many ways. You find yourself looking at things differently.
You begin thinking of what it would be like had your child lived. You also discover that things like holidays
and birthdays have a new meaning. There are feelings of sadness and wishing your child was still with you. If seems that all your hopes and dreams you envisioned for your child are gone. Everything is like a bad dream and want your child there when you wake up. Quickly reality sinks in and you realize that it’s all true and then you cry.
Many parents who have lost a child will tell you that the first year is the hardest. I know this is true. Does it mean that the years after that will be any less painful? I don’t know about that, I have yet to find out that answer. I pray that the Lord will give me the strength to handle whatever comes my way.
The reason I’m writing this is because Phillip would have been 17 years old today. It is the first birthday without him. The things is that just a year ago he was celebrating his 16th birthday a joyous event, with the best birthday party ever. Little did I know it was to be his last birthday. April 9, 1996 he had turned 16. And was very happy and then suddenly he is struck down by a disease called Meningiitis. On May 5, 1996 he dies. May 9, 1996 he is being buried. One month after his 16th birthday.
Now here it is a year later and it’s still hard to believe that he’s gone. Looking for a way to remember him. I have several of his peers, teachers and those who worked with him and knew him come plant flowers at the memorial stone put up at the school. There were 16 tulips and a single daffodil. Sharron planted the 16th tulip as that was her last connection with him before they took ill. I was cold out but it didn’t matter.
I’m glad that we had Phillip for those 16 years. I’m also glad that Sharron is doing so well. Looking at her you would never know that she was so sick. She is back running and being a typical kid. I am truly blessed that she survived and she is here with me.
Carol Liles
April 9, 1997
MY BOY
It was a year ago today
I remember it oh so well
That’s when you went away
I miss you more than words can tell
Your sister is all better now
Sometimes she doesn’t know what to do
We try to carry on somehow
It’s not the same without you
Time seems to sometimes stand still
Yet it doesn’t seem that long
Since you and your sister got so ill
Oh how did everything go so wrong
I Knew you weren’t feeling well
I thought soon you’d be on your feet again
There was so way I could tell
That your time with me was about to end
Now I only have the memories of yesterday
As the first year without you has past
Because here it is the month of May
This was when I saw you last
I have made it through the first year
As hard as I may try
I can’t help shedding a tear
It’s my grief that makes me cry
I’m grateful for the time we had together
You showered me with happiness and joy
You were happy regardless of the weather
I’m glad you were my boy
Carol Liles
May 5 1997
SAYING GOODBYE
It’s been a year ago since you went away
I’ll never forget the events that happened that day
First your sister was sick, then you got sick too
I never thought this would happen to either of you
I had visions of what your future had in store
I dreamed of you going to college and more
It’s time to now accept God’s plan
Even if I don’t fully understand
I know you’re in a much better place
I’ll always have the memories of your smiling face
There’s so many are kept deep in my heart
For in my life you’ll always be a part
I know deep down that you always cared
I’ll never forget al the happy times we shared
Your image is everywhere around me
In everything I hear and see
After being with me for so long
It’s hard to believe you’re really gone
That day you left me stays in my head
Now it’s that time I really dread
With a heavy heart and a sigh
As I wipe another tear, I must day goodbye
I can’t wait for the day when I’ll see you again
Somehow I’ll get by until then
I know the Lord well see me through
Until the day I’m reunited with you
It’s been a year, even though it’s been rough
The memories I have will have to be enough
As I wipe away some more tears
Thank you for 16 wonderful years
Carol Liles
May 9, 1997
LETTING GO
It was just a year ago When you became so ill
Oh how it hurts me so To see you lying so still
Then the day I feared came The Lord called you home
My life will never be the same I feel so all alone
To lose you that day Made me want to cry
“Not my only son” I would say I don’t want to say goodbye
I tried so hard to be brave I try not to break down
While standing at your grave As you are lowered in the ground
I ‘ll try to get by the best I can,I know my road to healing is long
I’ll try somehow to understand I’ll trust in God to keep me strong
Now my son I must let you go As I wipe the tears from my face
I just want you to always know No one can ever take your place
The memories of you will never depart They will forever live in me
Although it breaks my heart My son I know you’re free
I feel that your time here was truly Heaven sent
so as I cry yet another tear I’m glad back to Heaven you went
Goodbye for now my precious son Until we meet again
Your race in life you’ve won I have yet to win
While I live my time on this earth Others will hear of your trial
And learn of your own worth And of your beautiful smile
As yet another year goes by Without you here to love
Although it make me cry I know you are with God above
It is my desire and belief That you are there singing a song
So despite my deepest grief My son I say so long
Carol Liles
May 1997
BIRTHDAY MEMORIAL POEM
In memory of Phillip Hoag
4/9j/80 – 5/5/96
To my son who would be 21 today
You left me 5 years ago in May
I miss you everyday
Whenever I don’t know what to do
I have wonderful memories of you
Each one helps to see me through
I remember your warm loving glow
In the face of whom I love so
I see your smile everywhere I go
Until the day we are reunited my son
I will share all you’ve done
And tell of the victories you have won
Carol Liles
April 9, 2001
MEMORIAL POEM
In loving memory of my son
Phillip Hoag
4/9j/80 – 5/5/96
To my son whom I love so
In memory of you this day
Can it really be 5 years ago
Since you went away
Your face I see everywhere
The memories of you I hold dear
Your wonderful qualities are so rare
I often can sense you are near
I was blessed with 16 years
Full of smiles, laughter and love
As I cry bittersweet tears
I know you are watching from above
Carol Liles
May 5, 2001
Memorial poem
In memory of Phillip Hoag 4/9/80 - 5/5/96
To my son whom I love so
In memory of you this day
Can it really be 17 years ago
Since you went away
Your face I see everywhere
The memories of you I hold dear
Your wonderful qualities are so rare
I often can sense you are near
I was blessed with 16 years
Full of smiles, laughter and love
As I cry bittersweet tears
I know you are watching from above
Carol Liles
May 5, 2013
Helping With M.D
When my daughter Sharron was only four
She began raising money for M.D.
She sold drinks, cookies and more
She wanted to make a difference you see
When she had collected all she could
She had to give it to the guy on the TV set
She wanted to be sure it went where it should
This first time when the telethon I'll never forget
Then each year she'd go out selling goodies all around
Soon her brother Phillip would join in too
Standing beside her without making a sound
As folks gave money he'd softly say thank you
Then one year I thought of just calling a pledge in
But Phillip would have none of that
So a tradition for us did begin
And every year they'd pass the hat
Then in 96 Phillip and Sharron got sick in May
Sharron recovered in a very short time
But sadly my Phillip passed away
How I miss that son of mine
So now I collect in his memory
And asking each of you to understand
That there are children who need you and me
To give them a helping hand
Whatever you can give
Will mean so much to a kid
It might be what helps a child to live
Then you'll be glad you did
So make that pledge today
No matter what the amount
And maybe some child will say
Your donation really did count
Carol Liles
August 1997
