Errol Milner Clifford 2006-2009

Errol Milner Clifford was born with a significant heart defect and a cognitive disability that prevented him from walking or talking. As we grieved the child we had anticipated, Errol’s full-bodied smile and irrepressible laugh turned our sorrow into joy, and taught us that many of the best things in life are unexpected. Inspired by Errol’s delightful spirit, friends, family, and neighbors rallied to support our family’s significant emotional, physical, and financial needs, through countless acts of selfless generosity. When Errol’s courageous heart finally failed him on December 23, 2009 we were left numb with grief. In these dark hours we listen hopefully for the echoes of Errol’s brilliant laugh. This blog is the story (starting from present and working back to Errol's birth) of the life and times of the amazing Errol Clifford.


Wednesday, December 23, 2009

Errol Milner Clifford died in his mother's arms with his father at his side surrounded by his beloved family at 4:45 pm on Wednesday, December 23.

181 comments:

andrea said...

There are no words....you are all in the deepest place in my heart and soul.

I love you.

~andrea

Anonymous said...

Errol has been such an inspiration and joy to all of us. We are broken hearted. He brought great love to everyone in his path. God must need him but we will surely miss his smiling face.

Unknown said...

Peace be with you. Errol's spirit and love will live on in the heart's of many, but right now my heart is heavy.

SueMo said...

Heaven is a happier place and we are blessed to have known him.
Joe & Susan Morris

Anonymous said...

Peace and love to your family. An angel got his wings today.

Beth S

Adrienne ("A") said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Anonymous said...

Many many folks hurting for and loving you guys tonight.

SoSock said...

May his memory be for a blessing.
Peace be with you guys.
Tim

Anonymous said...

We are saddened to hear of Errol's passing. We send all our love to the family. We know that Errol's spirit lives on and that his smiles will be charming the angels and God in heaven. He was a truly special child!!
All our love,
Deborah and Christian
Cindy and Woody

Adrienne ("A") said...

Our hearts are filled with sorrow. We send you love.
Errol's spirit lives on.

Marigene said...

Cousins - Our hearts break for you in this loss that is beyond words. We are more sorry than we can express. Please know that every moment you are in our thoughts and hearts as you step into the land of grief.

We love you,
Marigene, David, Natalya, Lennon, and Aunt Bobbie

and Aunt Bobbie

Anonymous said...

No words...only deep, deep love and the hope that all those who are thinking of you can help you carry the burden of this loss.
Izzie

Anonymous said...

Errol was your miracle. You were his. We love you.

Dean

Allison the Meep said...

The world just lost one of its brightest lights. We're sending love and light, and hope you find some comfort while you're going through this pain.

Unknown said...

We are so sorry to hear that news of Errol's passing. We feel so fortunate to have known him. He will always be my teacher of what it means to be truly joyful and loving. We are so fortunate that you shared him with the community, allowing us to know him, and now miss him along side you. We miss you, Errol, and love you Jonathan, Carrie and Owen!

Sydney, Cedar and Tony McGee

Daniel, Tracy & Nico said...

Jonathan, Cary, & Owen: If innocent suffering had a face, it is Errol's. His laughs, your joys were our laughs and joys. Now his death and your loss are ours also. He showed us how to be strong through pain and suffering, and his life sparked a love of life, giving and togetherness in all of us. What an inspiration he was. Thank you for sharing him with us.

Daniel, Tracy & Nico

Anonymous said...

Love to the whole Milner Clifford family. Many thinking of you and sending love your way. I feel so grateful to have known Errol and his spirit will live on.

Stephen Wiseman

Amy S. said...

"That laughter was his freedom,
and his gift to the Eternal.

As moonlight shines back at the sun,
he heard the call to come home, and went.

When light returns to its Source,
it takes nothing of what it has illuminated.

It may have shone on a garbage dump, or a garden, or in the center of a human eye. No matter.

It goes, and when it does, the open plain becomes passionately desolate, wanting it back."

PDX RE said...

If only we could all be loved as much as Errol...

Laura, Joel, Ruby, and Isaac

Anonymous said...

Are hearts are broken. The world needs more Errols.

Love,
Audrey & Bradley

Anonymous said...

So very sad to hear this news. Please know that you are surrounded by love.

Anonymous said...

i am so...so sorry for your tremendous loss. errol was most definitely loved, as you are. know that it is his precious spirit that will carry you in the time ahead!!

Carol and Jack said...

Errol's joyous smile will be in our hearts always. We love you and we thank God for Errol - what a precious gift, what a terrible loss.

Anonymous said...

There are no words. Our hearts are broken for you and your beautiful boy. You have spread so much love, even to those who have barely met you. Thank you for sharing Errol's light with us.

-Justin and Lisa, friends of Jay and Stacey's

Rebecca Smith, RN said...

I am so sorry. Errol will be well looked after in heaven until you get there. My sister has been my guardian angel for 13 years now and I have a feeling she will find Errol up there.

Wakeford said...

He was sweetness and light, and always will be. We're with you.

RLR said...

I have heard of Errol - and your blog - through a couple of different blog and church connections. What a bright light in this big world of ours. I will keep your family in my mind and on my heart.
Prayers for all of you....

Tamara said...

Hugging you guys tight. Love you.

Katherine said...

i thank god for errol. i thank god for cary and jonathan and owen for sharing errol with me. i thank errol for making me a better person.

Anonymous said...

We are standing beside you
holding you tightly.

Don't be afraid to fall into our tears.

They are our love surrounding you
wailing with you
remembering with you
dancing with you.

Don't be afraid to fall into our tears

To roll in them
run them through your hands
pour them over you.

Our tears hold Errol,
of you with Errol,
of Errol tasting life.

Our tears cry with yours,
falling into a gentle pool.


In this pool
we swim,
diving into water
which holds all that is.

Anonymous said...

My heart aches for you and the loss of your beautiful Errol. Our family has been following his journey and hoping for the best outcome. You are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Amanda F.

Steve Mc said...

Errol changed the lives of many. What a great accomplishment in so little time.

mama becca said...

Errol will never, ever be forgotten. His life was meaningful and HUGE and inspired so many, even in his last hours. You will forever be so proud of your beautiful son and what his life accomplished. Even though we know you from the edge... as friends of ben and margie's... our hearts break with yours and we grieve with you and share in your pain. I just hope that you can feel how loved you are... as you are carried and lifted up by so many tonight.
with love,
becca and zach albertson

Anonymous said...

Like so many, I feel lucky to have known Errol. He touched so many people with his big smile and fun-loving personality. Your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.
-Ashley

Jeanne said...

Jonathan and Cary,
It is not meant to be that parents out live their children. We are so sorry for the loss of Errol, a beautiful ray of light. May God comfort you.
John and Jeanne Lenham (Claire's parents from the CC)

Chris and Joy Hales said...

we are so, so sorry. words cannot express the sorrow we feel in our hearts for you.

Anonymous said...

I am so sorry for your loss. Much love to you all.

Anonymous said...

I'm soooo sorry, that he has gone home. Errol will feel true joy now, and his all rough spots of hurt will be smoothed out. We will all miss his wonderful, smiling face. The angels in heaven will be singing happy songs. Errol IS a happy boy. His soul will remain forever and ever and ever.


Love,
Sofia, Victor's sister

Anonymous said...

You have my prayers and my love.

Peace,
Rob

Anonymous said...

"He lived and laughed and loved and left..." James Joyce.
That was surely Errol...I never knew a happier child nor one that so changed my life. This world will never be the same - he leaves a legacy far larger than you can imagine.
Warm hugs,
Jeanne

Anonymous said...

Abby will be by his side tonight and always. Please know that I am here if you need to talk over the next days, weeks, months. Having walked this path for four years, I have no words but know that you are not alone. Much love to your family-Anne

Anonymous said...

My Errol will always have a very special place in my heart as will your whole family. My heart is heavy, but I feel so blessed to have shared Errol's smiles & laughter. I sure will miss his " I love you's". You are all in my thoughts and prayers. I love you all.
Samantha, Advance Peds

Anonymous said...

Dearest Cary, Jonathon and Owen,
My heart aches for you. I can't possibly understand how you feel. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.
With much love
Mary

Judi Hayashi Edwards said...

Keeping you all in my prayers!

The Meehans said...

We met Errol just a few times at the "big kids" birthday parties but his smile was unforgettable, as was the love and devotion of his family. He will be missed by so many and I hope you all can find some measure of peace knowing that. --Sally, Patrick & Riley Meehan (Friends of Hillary and Ted, Daniel and Tracy)

Madison Wilburs said...

The Wilburs are deeply saddened by this news. Our hearts go out to you. Your radiance, love, and brilliance will see you through this.

Anonymous said...

So sorry. There are no words. You are in our prayers. Adam and Jitka Helmus

Anonymous said...

Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, Love leaves a memory no one can steal.

Andy said...

Looking at the night sky. What a beautiful new star I see.

Ashley said...

Sweet Errol was already an angel to so many of us.Now he is with god to spread that love even more as well as that great big smile on to others! There are no words that can express the saddness, but know that we all love you and I as many others are so grateful to have known Errol and to have been touched by him and his smile!
God Bless!
Ashley McIntosh

Anonymous said...

So much love surrounded Errol's bright soul. He truly gave our community a gift, showing us how to care together. I can't imagine how much you must miss him. Hoping you can find moments of peace in the outpouring of love coming to your family now.
Cheryl Schirillo

Anonymous said...

Jonathan, Cary and Owen,
We're holding you in our hearts. What a gift Errol has been to this world. He helped all of us be our best selves. We love you all.
The Mikush Family

Anonymous said...

Oh god Cary and Jonathan. We are so sorry and saddened on this day. I just keep wondering at the ripple effect caused by the way Errol lived his life, and the way your family shared the joy that he was. He was a little man who changed so very many. What a debt we owe to him and to your family.
Love,
Karen & Gary

kristi said...

I am so sorry for your loss. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.

Anonymous said...

Cary, Jonathan and Owen,
Words can not even begin to express the sorrow I feel for you in my heart.
Thank you so much for sharing him with me.
Much love,
Ms Paula

Jen Watson said...

We love you all. Rest in peace little man.
Jen Watson and Jen Martin

Hillary and Ted said...

There really are no words. You are loved and beautiful Errol is loved and you are in our thoughts constantly.

Ann Humphreys said...

I cry with you tonight as you mourn this separation from your beautiful, precious, irreplaceable boy. May the great heart of the universe enfold you as you face this unspeakable sorrow.

Errol, you have touched my life forever. Thank you.

Anonymous said...

Dear Jonathan, Cary, & Owen,
We are so saddened by this news. We will keep you all in our hearts and prayers. Peace.

Love,
Katie, Charlie, Emily and Henry Moosbrugger

Dan Heck said...

Jonathan and Cary...

Obviously there are no words, so please just know that my sincerest and warmest thoughts for peace are all directed your way.

Dan

Oneness Winston-Salem said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Anonymous said...

Oh Errol. You have brought so many people together. You are an angel sent from above. We love you all and you are in our prayers.
Much love,
Anna
and
Macy

Melissa James said...

this is unspeakably sad. if there is anything you all need, please let us know.

kristi said...

What to say? I'm so very sorry for your great loss. Praying for peace and light to warm you.

Much love,

Kristi Marion & family

Unknown said...

I'm so sorry Cary, Jonathon and Owen. So sorry that your baby boy had to fight such a hard fight - but happy that he did it in your loving embrace.
Much love and sadness for you all - we are right down the road, call on us at anytime.
Love and love,
Heather

Paul said...

We will miss Errol deeply, his beautiful smile and his laughter still resonate in our minds. We are sad and heart broken. But Errol is and will continue to be a light that will shine upon his parents and brighten his brother's path forever. We are humbled to have been able to meet this beautiful light and will cherish it always.

We love you,

--Paul, Theresa, Sofia, Francesca and Victor

Sharon Nelson said...

I am so sad to hear of your beautiful boy. Wishing you the deepest peace......... you are a truly amazing family and your story - all the love and courage that you have shown - has inspired and moved our entire community it seems! Such a dear soul. My heart goes out to you.

Blessings ~

Anonymous said...

My heart is saddened to hear of the passing of Errol but i know he is in a better place. Much love to the family.

Pearl

Anonymous said...

I am a student at NCSA, and although I was never a student of Mr. Milner, my friends that were informed me of Errol's story and kept me updated on his status. Even though I've never met Errol, I could see that his smile alone showed that he greatly appreciated all the love he received. I was very sad to hear about his fate, and my thoughts and prayers are with his family.

Unknown said...

Errol i love you so much!!!!!! from my family to yours!!! Let God be with your family and you!!! We love you!! And your family!!!!

Macy

Anonymous said...

I want to let you know how very sorry I am to hear about the loss of your beloved son, Errol. It saddens me to hear of this news, but I will keep you and your entire family in my thoughts and prayers today and the days ahead.

My deepest sympathy,
CJ Burroughs

Anonymous said...

Tonight I cry with you at the loss of Errol, such a sweet, sweet boy! I have many memories of him but I think my favorite one is of his beautiful singing and the way he would "hug" me when I picked him up. Errol has taught me a lot about living life to the fullest each and everyday. His smile and happy self always made our classroom brighter and everyday special. Thank you so much for sharing him with me over the past year. Errol will always have a special place in my heart...I love him and thank him for being my teacher in so many ways.

Jonathan, Cary and Owen...I love you guys and will continue to pray for your strength and peace.

Ms. Jennifer

www.davenaquin.com said...

Mr. Milner and to your family,

I am so sorry for the loss of Errol. I can only imagine how much pain you are in right now. I will always, and never forget, the time you brought him into our class last year. Every time I saw him, he always had a smile on his face. I could tell that he was a happy child, and you were the right man to take care of him. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

R.I.P. Errol Milner Clifford

Unknown said...

Words simply cannot express how deeply sad we are for you. We will be holding you and your entire family close in our hearts.

Doug & Molly

Anonymous said...

little man
a little man behind those glasses
beams at his father from his chair
the world is such a happy place
when pretty girls feed him applesauce

a community of friends came together for this
little man
made a plan
to take a stand

to tell the world
this little man
had something grand
to share with all

elation washes over him like a tidal wave
at the reception of a smile
giggles that sound of symphonies
when someone talked to him for a while

a beautiful boy with hair of gold
eyes like the sky
skin of angel
heart of a warrior
grinning like a
little man

errol will never be forgotten
my deepest sympathy

Rise children rise said...

In Errol, I had a buddy.
In Errol, I had a friend.
With Easy E, I could be silly.
With Easy E, I could be sad.
In all my saltiness Errol was there.
I have never met, nor did I ever think that I would be related to someone as saintly as he.
I see Errol's effect even tonight. Errol is a magician.
As you walk through this valley, and as we walk with you, I want to thank you guys. Thanks, Jonathan and Cary, for blessing me by being amazing parents. Thank you for caring for and treating Errol like the saint that he is. You teach me every day.

All my love,
Peter

bicycle spaniard said...

Love, love and love to all of you during this impossible time.

andrea said...

I had to share a story from tonight...
As I was hugging my son Rohan goodnight, he said" I am so glad I chose you for my mom. You are the perfect Mom for me"

I know that Errol chose you both because you are perfect parents..and he the perfect son.

Can't stop thinking about you all and know that Errol's wings will set him soaring.

Love from all of us

Andrea, Jay, Rohan and Max

p.s. a friend who has been reading you blog passes on her deepest, heartfelt thoughts for you and your family.

Janet Duddy said...

I can't imagine the pain you must be in now. My heart is broken and I never even met Errol. I have followed his story though and can tell how much joy he brought to so many and how many lives he has touched. My thoughts and prayers are with you in this difficult time. Errol will always be remembered and was lucky to have such a great family.

Anonymous said...

Cary and Jonathan, thank you for sharing your precious boy with your community and world. Errol taught us all how to live, and now we share our deep, heartfelt sorrow.

Our earnest thoughts and prayers are with you both, Owen, and to your extended families. You truly are amazing parents who help soften this world with your incredible love and grace.

With love, Charlie Francis and Anne W.

Rosalind said...

Cannot find the words to express my thoughts. Jonathan and Carrie - know your pain is felt over long distances and by friends old and new - Someday may that bring you peace, but now I cannot imagine your grief. Errol was a gift to this universe of ours and we may not now know why, but someday perhaps we will.

Much love - Rosalind

Anonymous said...

May your family find some comfort with each other this holiday remembering the joys you have shared with Errol. Many prayers coming your way.

Anonymous said...

Errol has touched my heart in so many ways and I feel truly blessed to have known him! Your family is amazing and I know you can get thru this. Just know he will be an angel looking down on you and know that he has been an inspiration to so many. You will be in my thoughts and prayers!! I love you......
Amanda from Advance Peds

SoSock said...

In my earlier comment, while still at a loss for words, I simply quoted the traditional Jewish prayer - May his memory be for a blessing. I'm sure that you don't need me to tell you that Errol's memory will forever be a blessing, to you and to everyone who knew the Little Man.
While none of us in this extended family can feel the pain that you are feeling, we are nonetheless feeling a deep loss and sharing at least a part of that pain with you. Maybe in doing so we are carrying a tiny bit of this weight for you. We all hope so.
I feel fortunate to have known Errol, and have certainly learned a lot about living in the moment from him, and from you. I thank you for sharing with the rest of us not only Errol himself, but your own journey with him. I know that was often very hard to do.
Watching the events of the last week or so, I know that Errol has not been at peace much. He is now. May the time come soon when you are too.
Tim

kwarner said...

Cary,
I'm so sorry for your loss.
-Katie W.

Abby, Libby, Eve said...

My deepest condolences are with your family in this difficult time of sadness. Errol's story will continue to inspire.

Eve

Anonymous said...

Such a terrible loss. Errol was an inspiration and will never be forgotten.You have the hearts of many with you.

Todd Hoover said...

There is a new star in the heavens tonight. My thoughts are with you, Cary and Owen at this time. Just know that Errol is in a better place. I feel blessed at having known him.

Anonymous said...

Stop all the clocks, cut off the telephone,Prevent the dog from barking with a juicy bone,Silence the pianos and with muffled drumBring out the coffin, let the mourners come.Let aeroplanes circle moaning overheadScribbling on the sky the message He is Dead

Katie said...

Our most sincere and deepest sympathies are with you all tonight and in the coming days. While we weren't lucky enough to have met Errol, we followed your journey with him on your blog. You were so fortunate to have him as son and he was so fortunate to have you both as parents.

Kat Lamp said...

I am so sorry and heartbroken to hear about Errol. The memory of his sweet smile will be carried in our hearts forever. Sending love and light your way.

Emmy J said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Anonymous said...

My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Please let me know if I can do anything.

Megan Hart Sizemore

Anonymous said...

I have never met a more inspiring family. The strength and love you guys have could blanket the world. I'm confident that Errol is surrounded by that warm blanket in some place much more peaceful than the world we live in and is smiling down on his beautiful family.

You guys are in my heart and prayers,

Peace be with you and know that a blanket of love from us all will surround you.

Madison said...

His brightness shined into my heart, and I'd never even met him. In the face of the small adversities in my life, I think of Errol and his formidable strength, and his unfailing optimism. I have learned more from Errol than I ever expect to learn from anyone.

His light will never leave me, but at the moment I mourn the loss of such an immediate connection.

I pray that through whatever it is you may be up against, whatever emotions and walls, that out of this you may begin, eventually, to heal.

Emmy J said...

Mr. Milner,

I am so incredibly sorry for your loss. Errol had a wonderful life because of his wonderful parents and brother. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers always. Please let me know if you need anything at all.

Emmy Jadoff

Anecdotes by Haydee Christina Thompson said...

I love you and am thinking of you all with warm hugs.
Im so sorry.

Jennifer Melton said...

I can't imagine what you must be going through right now. Even though I never met Errol, I can't tell you how much I have loved reading about him. I can tell he was a wonderful gift. I am so, so sorry for your loss. Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts.

Anonymous said...

My baby son did not understand why I held him extra close tonight, nor will he ever meet Errol. When he's old enough, I will share the story of Errol and explain to him how he taught me to appreciate every moment we have together and to never take anything for granted. I hope my son grows up to be as strong and courageous as your fine sons.

Thank you for sharing your story and for teaching us all how to love, care and work together as a community. How lucky Errol was to be loved by so many, especially his exceptional family!

Anonymous said...

I have been at a loss for words for a few hours now. But I can say that even though we have lost such a beautiful soul, we did gain a stronger sense of community. Errol was one of the best things that could have happened to this community and I feel honored to have met him. He was a beautiful child and the most joyous soul that I have ever had the pleasure of meeting.

Thank you for sharing him with the world. My thoughts are with you and the entire family during these difficult times, but do remember that he will always be with you.

~Lindsay

KatieMik said...

Errol helps us see all of the good there is in the world. Thank you for bringing him into our lives. I love you guys.

Sarah's Mom said...

I have been thinking of you all constantly and will be praying that God will surround you with His comfort and peace. You are such a wonderfully amazing family and I've been blessed by your kind and loving spirit. From the day Sarah started at TCC, I was told that she and Errol would be great buddies, and I know they were. In our family, we would always refer to Errol as "Sarah's boyfriend", since it seems that she liked to hold hands with him when they would be next to each other in class. God used Errol to touch so many lives.
Much love,
Teresa and Sarah Beshears

Unknown said...

I have been in the appalacian mountains without powers for 3 days...my first "virtual connection" was to connect to tou Cary, Eroll and my beloved Owen...There are no words for your immesnse loss, but I lift you up on legions of angel warriors on eagles wings. I wish I was there to just hold you and hear your sobs... I have NOTHING to offer you but warm arms, much prayer and a loving place for Owen 2 times a week. My love to you all

SuzeBragg said...

Heaven and the world-at-large gained a beautiful soul today. Words cannot describe the loss yet, but I send thanks for sharing him with us.

I love you so much and I miss you greatly.

Anonymous said...

Errol was a beautiful light in the world, and I'm sure that he's shining on you now. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Peace and love to you all.

- Katie C

alicia said...

We came so close to this outcome. We are so sorry for your loss.
mended little hearts.
alicia

Anonymous said...

Your family and your little man fought a good fight. I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Errol touched more people than you will every know. Many of us are parents who will think twice before telling our kids we don't have time to play because we have to do a household chore, or work, or whatever. You and Errol reminded us that life is precious and best lived to the fullest.

Meerina said...

Mr. Milner,
Your students are standing behind you gung-ho. The word has spread fast and even those who don't know you say they've heard all about your Little Man and send their love and sorrow. I'm so glad I got to see him at the community event that he ignited. May we remember that smiling face forever and in our darkest days, remember that happiness can always bring about a cure.

To all, I was so happy to hear that Errol left us in the arms of his mother and surrounded by the family. He was a bundle of love and will be remembered always. Thank you all for being the best family he could ever have and thanks to you all for sharing Errol with us.

And thanks to Errol for sharing a little piece of true happiness with everyone who met him or heard his story.

Peace,
Trina

Anonymous said...

My deepest sympathies.

Lisa G. Browning said...

Errol's story is radiating out across the world tonight and people are being brought together in a community of love & support by a wonderful little man many of us never had the chance to know. God bless Errol and God bless his family and loving friends.
Lisa B (Los Angeles)

Unknown said...

Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Amanda Trawick

Anonymous said...

My thoughts are with you. Mended little hearts family.

Suzanne and Ayden Plante

Anonymous said...

I am sadden to hear about the passing of Errol. Thank you for sharing Errol with us.I love you guys and will keep you in my prayers.May God continue to Bless you and your family.Love,Carolyn Little

sarahsouth said...

I am so deeply sorry. Winston-Salem loves you. Errol changed this community in a profound way.

Sending love to your family,
Sarah

Unknown said...

I am so very sorry. Jonathan's words, that Errol is the best person he has ever known, say it all. In his short years Errol gave more joy, expressed more delight, loved more than most of us through decades of doing our best. And so he has taught us by example and we are all better people for having known the little man who is in all the ways that matter a giant.

Cary and Jonathan, you are the best parents I have ever known, and I've known some really great ones. You set the standard - one I will strive for in all the opportunities ahead for loving children.

There really are no words, as others have pointed out, and so I ramble on because I don't want to let go. I am holding you close, so thankful for family and community, so thankful for Errol, so very sad, so very sorry for the seemingly bottomless sorrow you must be feeling.

I love you all, and thoughout the comings and goings of this Christmas I am with you in my thoughts and prayers.

Anonymous said...

We are so sorry and don't know what to say. We are thinking of your lovely family and wish you peace and love from friends and family during this heart breaking time.
M & A

Unknown said...

we are praying for your family and your great loss...there are no words except we will hold you in prayer

Rob and Rebecca

Diana Greene said...

We are so saddened by this news. Our hearts are with you. I will always remember Errol and how beautifully loving and loved he was.
We love you - Diana, Mark, Marissa and Tyler

Joe said...

We are so so sorry. Errol was a lovely person who made everyone he met a little happier.

- Joe and Danielle

Mark Siler said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Mark Siler said...

We are holding you all in the Light.
Grateful for the light of Errol that will continue always.

Much Love,
Mark, Kiran, Joy and Leigh

Anonymous said...

Thank you for sharing your son and love with the world.
Errol is your angel. So much peace and love to you all.

Anonymous said...

I went to sleep last night so sad that Errol did not get his miracle. I woke up this morning and realized that Errol was a miracle.

Sarah said...

Oh, Mr. Milner, I am so so so so sorry. Errol's such a beautiful little boy - I really enjoyed meeting him at the Farmer's Market that one time. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Lots of love and prayers coming your way...

Sarah Miller

Carol and Cameron W said...

We are very saddened for your family. I so wish I had known Errol personally, but I have heard so many wonderful things about him from friends and feel I have learned so much about him and his sweet spirit through reading here. We will continue to keep you in our thoughts and prayers. What an amazing family you all are! We wish you peace.

Paula said...

Thank you for sharing Errol with us. His smile brought joy to all who knew him. I will miss him but I know he is in God's loving hands. You all are in my thoughts and prayers - all my love.

Suzanne said...

We were so, so sorry to see this news. May the love and inspiration you have provided so many come back to you ten fold during this sad time. Fondly, Suzanne, Brannon and Dalton

Joyce Reehling said...

My husband and I will keep you in our prayers. There are no words that fill such a void, no wrds to add joy to, what for you, is a season now of loss. Know that many are praying for you and that time and love will bring you through. Take all the time you need, there are no rules for survivors of such things. Joy will return and I am sue Errol will come to you and be a huge part of your healing.

I am but a donor to the cause and we have never met...but you are close to me in my heart now.

Anonymous said...

I am very sorry for your loss. I never knew Errol, but his story was one of bravery and inspiration. And that is a wonderful legacy, indeed.

Anonymous said...

While we do not know your family personally, you have been in our prayers and thoughts as we have followed your journey. May you find peace and comfort. -

- Washington Park neighbors -

Anonymous said...

I met Errol once several months ago while working on the 6th floor of Brenner - and even from the brief meeting, even though he was sick at the time, he was full of joy! I remember still the sparkle in his eye and his big smile as he looked up at his adoring father - you could tell the feeling was mutual! He was an amazing boy and his spirit touched my life - and countless others! He will be missed and I will pray for you - his parents and his brother in this difficult time.
- Caroline

ben said...

I only knew Errol through his blog. Yet, my heart is heavy with sorrow for your family. Reading the comments leaves me feeling sad and happy. I can tell he is a special child that has touched many. He has touched my heart so deeply. I will keep Errol and your family in my prayers. Always remember his smile!
My love and prayers for your family.
Ben McIntosh

Anonymous said...

My heart breaks hearing this news.

I will always remember meeting Errol at the Dixie Classic Fair this past year...what a beautiful little boy.

Brent Naylor

Anonymous said...

I never had the honor of meeting Errol in person, but the love he inspired has touched me in profound ways. I know his presence will continue to be felt on this planet, in this life, for many, many years to come.

I am so sad for your loss, for all our loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

I am grateful that he was among us for this short time, and that the love he spread will remain ...

Mike M.

Anonymous said...

Jonathan, Cary and Owen,
Errol was the littlest living buddha, bringing his bright light of love and generosity to the world. In his short lifetime, he made a remarkable difference in my life, and in the lives of so many. My heart is heavy with grief but I feel him still.....all his love prevails.
I know you are all in deep pain and grief, and I send my loving embrace, and ready support.

Much love,
Nancy

elmor said...

From the farmer's market to the children's center I know Errol will be dearly missed. My family is thinking of yours today.
Much love,
Lucy

Anonymous said...

I'm so sorry for your loss.

Unknown said...

We are so sorry for your loss. Errol's smiles brought joy to you and to all of us. His memory will as well. We love you and are thinking of you.

Kevin, Michele, Michael, and Matt

Trish W.ABES said...

Cary, the light in your soul shows through your eyes and your sons are and were very fortunate to have such a parent! You show such amazing grace and courage in all that you do! Blessings be yours!

Anonymous said...

Although we barely knew Errol, my family has shed a tear today... for your heartache, for his struggle, for your loss.
He reached into our hearts, even from a distance... a true testament to the power of the love in his little heart!
We wish you peace and comfort in the days ahead.
Love, Tabatha, Bobby & Beau Renegar
(part of your ABES family)

Anonymous said...

Errol is an angel Three short years in this world and now forever in our hearts. His happiness reflected the love that surrounded him.
Alan, Fabiola, Andres & Erica

Alex Prada said...

We are so sad to hear about Errol. We will always remember his sweet face and laugh! Such a happy boy! Our hearts are with you guys; we love you and we want to accompany you in this horrible journey which is certainly the most difficult a parent should ever face. The death of a loving child.

We need to comfort his brother as well; it is so much for him to take, at this early age.

See you soon. Much Love,

Alex & Ken

DanielY said...

Dear Owen

I'm sorry that you lost your brother. I can be your brother sometimes, and you can put glasses on me. It's gonna be OK, Owen. The end.
bye

Nico

Unknown said...

His gallant Spirit lives on through all of us who were moved by his sweet exuberance and profound courage. You all are in my tears and prayers today.
~Jenna

Anonymous said...

In our family,we have such strong and healthy children..dancers and athletes,budding scholars,kids that fill you with wonder at their creativity and smartness and potential for greatness..And I have questioned the injustice,the unfairness,the inexplicable circumstances that such a little boy as Errol endured..just to breathe and keep his heart beating and that infectious grin on his face...I once ranted about that and said:"Why can't Errol be like all the rest?" ..Today .in faith,I can say without reservation...Now,he is like all the rest.....we love you...Larry and Day

Scott said...

Words cannot begin to express how sorry I am for your loss. May God Bless your family. Heaven has another angel.

Joy said...

I'm so sorry for your loss.

Unknown said...

Visiting Errol was always the highlight of my day- he will be terribly missed by many and was so very lucky to have such a wonderful family. I am thinking of you all.
Kellie

Unknown said...

Camilla, Mary, everyone else associated with the North Carolina Governor's School, and I are all so very sorry for your loss. We are heartbroken for you and will pray for the entire Milner family. What a bright little light Errol brought to all of us.

Much love,
Tom Winton

Anonymous said...

bless you and your angel!!! not without tears do i sign this as a mom of 3 who will be hugging tighter than ever tonight!!! Rest well little Errol.....

Anonymous said...

The Toone-LeFevre house sends it's deepest sympathies to you. We are at a loss for words. Our hearts break with your heart. -j

Anonymous said...

Cary, Jonathan, and Owen. I'm so sorry for your loss.

Whenever I encountered Errol he emanated a sense of happiness, equilibrium, and peace, and whenever I think about Eroll I smile. I think that is true for a lot of people, and I'm sure it will remain so for me.

My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Anonymous said...

Words truly can not express the sympathy I have for your loss. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. May God Bless you all and give you peace.
Love-Becky Pollak Voorhees

anne said...

Jonathan, Carrie and Owen,
My prayer is that God wraps you in his loving arms giving you comfort at this very difficult time. I , too, thank you for allowing me to be part of sweet Errol's life. He will be in my heart forever.
I love you all.
Anne Clayton

Nikki and Richard said...

Our house mourns and cries for your deep loss.

You have touched so many with what you have shared of your life and love for Errol. We are richer.

With love

The Byers-Groves Family

Anonymous said...

Our hearts and minds go out to Errol, his family, and friends.

Grace Brewer and her family.

Anna Knott said...

We have all been in a state of shock since yesterday. I can't even bear to think what it's like on your end. I will be here for you in whatever way I can.
You know this better than anyone, Errol was a strength in this whole community. I think he will be carried on in every individual's soul who ever knew him or laid eyes upon his smiling face. Through his influence of resiliant strength and laughter to the purest form, he will certainly always, always, always live in a pocket of my soul to be called upon whenever I need to muster up some strength or remember that love grows from within us, but from a seed of love placed by those who love us. You are amazing people. I love you so so dearly.
Love,
Anna Knott

Pacha said...

I am thinking and praying for you. Erroll was to say the least, a fighter. I will miss him...

Love you guys,
Jenny Twito

Susie Pollock said...

You have been the bravest family ever. We all love you so much.

Dale and Susie

Stephanie Brown said...

Dear friends, we are so sad, and we love you so much.

Myra said...

I am so sorry for the loss of your precious little boy. I read the email from school this morning and my eyes filled with tears. Errol was truly a gift from God. I feel at peace knowing that he is in heaven and free of all pain. My prayers go out to your family. May you find comfort in knowing that we are there for you. God Bless You

Myra Franklin (Parent from the Children's Center)

Anonymous said...

Our thoughts are with you in this time of great loss.

Shona and Jonathan

Anonymous said...

All of my energy and thoughts are directed towards your family in this moment.

Ghandi says:
"Just as the body cannot exist without blood, so the soul needs the matchless and pure strength of faith."

Love,
Kelsey Maiorano

Unknown said...

Love is everlasting.
Sending all my love, to you and your sons.

Anonymous said...

words escape me......May peace find you and your family.

Carrie said...

Praying the peace of Christ fills your hearts as your grieve your sweet son's passing. What a strong an courageous boy he was!

Anonymous said...

There are no words for such a loss. Our hearts ache for you. We hope that the strength in your family and community will carry you through.

Much love - Lisa Zipkin
(Jack's mom from Owen's K class)

SuzeBragg said...

I know we posted a comment earlier, but it's Christmas Day and you're on our minds. We love and miss you.

Suze and Patrick

Unknown said...

ERROL ha tenido un CAMINO dificil sobre nuestro planeta The Earth.
Hoy seguro que está recorriendo un camino menos duro y su memoria ha dejado en todos los que hemos seguido su corta vida una gran cantidad de amor y solidaridad.
Nuestros mejores deseos para que Jonathan, Cary y Owen superen pronto este difícil trance.
La familia española.

Unknown said...

You are truely in my prayers. My heart goes out to you and your family. Love Felecia

Anonymous said...

my prayers are with your family. errol was a miracle and his smile filled my heart. peace be with your family.

Maria said...

oh jonathan, cary, owen. reading this post was liking getting a swift punch in the gut. it took my breath away. i cannot even imagine what you must be feeling right now. though i only know errol through your postings--from a distance--the joy and light he brings are palpable even from here, and i know that they must be powerful forces indeed. little errol has clearly been a blessing in your lives, and i KNOW that he was also blessed to have two of the most wonderful people in the world as parents. i am saddened that i will never meet errol in person, but honored to have witnessed something of his incredible time on earth via cyberspace. please know that my thoughts and love are with you in your grief. i wish i could be there for the memorial service.

love, love, love,
maria

the tappes said...

Errol was a miracle! his love was so good, your love so good. his time here a blessing for all of us. We're so sad.
Love,
Joe, Brandi, gabe and sophia

Laura Smyth said...

We are so very sorry. Errol's beautiful life was a light in the world.

Laura

mamie said...

So deeply sorry you all. I never had the chance to know Errol, but he seems like he was a great gift to you all - just too shortly lived. We will keep you all in our thoughts and prayers. Take care of yourselves.

Grace and Peace,
Mamie

Unknown said...

So, so sorry to hear of Errol's passing. It is touching to read about the ways he transformed you and those around him, as well as the ways you loved and cared for him. Thank you for sharing your hearts with us.
With our thoughts, prayers, and love,
Steve and Lyn

Karen Ranon said...

What can I say about the little person that made my insides quiver when he came into the room and gave me one of his million dollar smiles....what can I say about the parents that inspird me daily with their amazing love and determination to protect and nurture their two boys...no words could begin to relay my love and gratitude for enriching my life. I will forever hold sweet Errol in my heart as he keeps me soft and protects me from the,sometimes harsh, influence of this world. God blessed us with an angel.... I love you and will hold you in prayer though this dificult time. Karen Ranson

Anonymous said...

You have been an inspiration to us all - unconditional hope and faith and love. The best things.

Mary lee and Jim Baucom said...

Dean and family, We just heard of your great loss and we are so saddened but we were so blessed by the blog about his brief but precious life. He has blessed so many with his happy spirit and the good memories will carry you through. With much love, Mary Lee and Jim Baucom

Faith L. said...

Carrie -
Loving you.
Weeping with and for you.
Yearning for light, I imagine Errol's death as a birth, for him.
But your arms must ache with emptiness.
For Owen you will visit the present often, even though you don't want to.
That is good, Carrie, because we need you, however you are, to stay with us in our neighborhood.
Loving you -
Faith L.

Amy Spencer said...

From your arms to Jesus' arms. God's Blessings to you all...we are praying for you.