A Tribute to My Sister, Frances Ellen, “Sissie”
Today, I have the bittersweet honor of officiating a celebration of life for Troy McCall, who has entered his eternal home—a mansion lovingly prepared by Jesus Himself. I can only imagine the joy Troy is experiencing, reunited with loved ones who have gone before him. While we remember the blessing of Troy's presence in our lives, I also want to take a moment to honor his remarkable wife of 67 years.
This reflection brings to mind my dear sister, Frances Ellen—affectionately known as “Sissie.” As I consider the paths we’ve each taken, I realize we share a profound love for our Savior, Jesus Christ, and a steadfast commitment to putting Him first. Sissie has lived her life
rooted in God’s promises of provision, healing, and wholeness. She’s faithfully given a tenth of all her income, living in the confidence of God’s abundant blessings.
But there is a stark difference between the two of us. Sissie knows how to enjoy life, while I have spent much of my life striving for future goals. She has mastered the art of savoring God’s blessings in the here and now, while I’ve often been preoccupied with achieving what’s next.
Take reading, for example. Sissie is an avid reader who has devoured thousands of books simply for the joy of it. Her passion for reading has given her a rich, self-acquired education that surpasses any degree. In contrast, my reading has primarily been academic—books assigned to earn degrees and improve my teaching career. While I’ve gained success as an educator, I’ve lived much of my life on a metaphorical treadmill, always running toward the future but seldom pausing to enjoy the present.
While I was caught up in work and responsibilities, my sister and brother were living life fully. They traveled the world, visiting family stationed overseas and celebrating milestones together. On their 60th wedding anniversaries, they marked the occasion with a cruise—a beautiful memory among many. To date, Sissie has been on over twelve cruises, visiting places like Asia, Alaska, South America, and Europe. Meanwhile, my travels have been more limited. I’ve taken one cruise and visited several U.S. destinations, but I have yet to experience life as extensively as my sister has.
Sissie’s ability to embrace life extends even to the small, everyday moments. For instance, I enjoy gardens, but Sissie truly knows them. She can name countless flowers and birds, enriching her appreciation of the beauty around her.
While my accomplishments may look impressive on paper, it’s my sister who holds the wisdom of how to live a truly blessed life. She has always been faithful, dependable, and present for family events—birthday parties, celebrations, and moments that matter.
Sissie, I love you deeply. You are a treasure, not only to me but to everyone privileged to know you. Your life is a testament to what it means to live fully, joyfully, and faithfully. I am blessed to call you my sister, and I hope one day to learn from you how to enjoy life as you do.
Thank you for being you, Sissie. You are a gift from God.
Scriptures used to enjoying every day:
Matthew 6:33: “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.”
Psalm 118:24: “This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.”
Psalm 19:1-2: “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they reveal knowledge.”
Philippians 4:4: reminds us to “Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!”