We arrived at Gracelawn cemetery this afternoon to find that the ten people permitted to attend the graveside service weren’t the only ones there.
Hundreds of members of the Edmond Church of Christ, which my parents attended for over two decades, were gathered in a wide circle around the plot, some holding up signs of love and support while maintaining a sensible distance.
The Air Force was present for the military honors, and there was a bagpipe player and two members of the firefighter’s honor guard handling the firefighter stuff. It was a lovely day and a fitting tribute, and being surprised by all of those people meant a lot to my mom and helped her out greatly.
We went home with her and talked for awhile about various things, with my wife and mom discussing all the paperwork that needs to be taken care of. I don’t understand any of that, so I dug into some photo albums and took a trip down memory lane.
I don’t know how to process this yet. It’s so strange, and the world feels like a different place. It’s like hanging out in a movie theater long after the credits have rolled and the lights have come on.
The mayor of OKC gave him a shout out on TV during a press conference and quoted from my article again, which made me tear up a little. I don’t know anything about him, but he seems like a decent dude.
Anyway, i found some great pics, though, and I’d like to share some of them. I can’t believe he’s gone.
Patrick Walts 
He was a remarkable man that touched so many people. He will always be a hero!
So sorry for your loss Patrick. We are praying for you and your family.
Beautiful tribute, how wonderful everyone showed their support. Cherish all the memories. God bless
Patrick
I was so impressed and touched by your tribute to your dad. He was a friend and most of all a Brother. I lost my wife on March 5 at Mercy hospital and I am finally where I can even talk about it. I know very well about the huge hole that is left empty. I love Your mom and pray that God will give you and her comfort.
❤️ Lyle Kelsey