Curtis Garcia, a member at Epic, passed away last month. He was 58 years old. Curtis became a member of Epic in the past year, but shortly afterward his health started to decline, and he continued to watch at home. Curtis had a humble faith and trusted God’s promises. We thank God for his life, for putting faith in his heart, and we look forward to a heavenly reunion with him someday!
A friend of Curtis recently shared some words that really capture Curtis’ heart for Jesus and Epic. Thank you for sharing, JJ!
“Curtis loved life and he loved God. He loved Epic Church because he felt accepted, loved and welcomed immediately. He was sad when he couldn't go, but he still watched it on YouTube on his big TV. He enjoyed the music, lights, and comfortable seats. He invited everyone he talked with to come to Epic.
He wanted my help to keep the invitation open, and he’d be glad if you went to church in his honor. Epic is a church for people who don’t like church. Curtis would say, “You can even wear bright red hospital socks with no shoes, and people will still be glad to see you and give you a hug if you want one."
He loved all of God's creations, especially animals and plants. He even loved a family of skunks that once lived under the porch. He chose a couple of his cats because they reminded him of the baby skunks with their fluffy tails.
Curtis' favorite thing, I observed, was knowing others were praying for him. It made him feel loved by people. He liked learning new scripture, and what it meant. It made him feel God's merciful love. He would tear up with joy and hope for salvation when listening to the message at church.
He was extremely skilled and independent. He was a sous chef for a popular steak house and at Big Boy. He taught me how to cook several foods at once and get it all done at the same time. He was a truck driver, who was inspired by the movie Convoy, but moreover, the song Convoy. I think he said he was a security guard for a short time on a midnight shift but I bet he was bored, because he always had to be doing something to feel alive. It really broke his heart when his health stopped him from doing what he loved: living and working.
Curtis believed we will all meet again. He wanted me to also make sure everyone knows that God loves them and that life is better if you love God.”
In honor of Curtis, would you say a prayer for someone today and invite the next person you meet to come to Epic?
God of Comfort,
We entrust Curtis into your loving hands. Thank you for his life on this earth and the time we had together. Thank you for ministering to him through your Church and giving him faith and hope in Jesus. Comfort all those who are grieving his loss and bring hope to them, knowing that Curtis has been surely welcomed into eternal life with you and lives with peace forever.
Amen
“You can even wear bright red hospital socks with no shoes, and people will still be glad to see you and give you a hug if you want one.”
