Amanda and I went to high school together. We didn’t know each other well and we graduated a couple years apart from one another. But when you come from a small town, everyone kind of just knows everyone. And so, I knew Amanda and we got back in touch over the past couple of years through Facebook. I loved looking at the pictures of her gorgeous family and always admired how much fun they looked like they had.
On September 29th, 2014, I read what no person ever wants to read…. Amanda shared with her friends on Facebook that JD had unexpectedly passed away. My heart sank. There are no other words.
I never had the opportunity to meet JD. I wish I had. He was clearly someone who loved life and was so much fun to be around. My heart hurts to know of how greatly he is missed by his family and especially his two beautiful girls.
Amanda shared some pictures with me of her family and she also shared some beautiful words about JD that I will share below.
(please note that the pictures Amanda shared with me below were not taken by Oldfields Photography. I watermarked them to protect them on the internet)
“JD grew up in Buena Vista & after playing on the golf team at Radford University, moved to Palmyra to work at the Lake Monticello Golf Course. It was while working there that I met him…he worked with one of my brothers. We hung out in groups a few times, but it wasn’t until almost 10 years later that our paths crossed again. We went out on our first date in August 2006 & were married May 10, 2008.
JD died September 29, 2014 from a blood clot. Two months shy of his 40th birthday. While his life was cut way too short, we sure did pack a lot of wonderful memories into our 8 years together.
1920s house renovation/flip
2 beautiful, healthy girls - Audrey & Emmie
Lots of Hokie football games, hikes, wineries and laughs.
JD was a great golfer, had an infectious smile and quick wit. He was a loving, supportive husband who made me feel so special and kept me laughing. He was an amazing Daddy who had dance parties and tea parties with the girls. He had special silly songs for each of them and he was their human jungle gym.
JD dressed in drag to support the American Cancer Society, was the voice of the Flucos during home football games and served on several church committees.
JD made everyone he met, feel at ease. He was incredibly kind and had such a big heart. I loved how loving and accepting he was. I was proud of him for so many reasons!
Gone, but will never be forgotten. We have the random act of kindness cards in his memory. I want the girls to know how incredible their Daddy was and how much of an impact he made in this world….then and now.” - Amanda Dickinson
Amanda asked me to photograph her with her girls in a special place. A place that meant a lot to her and where she and JD and their two daughters spent a lot of time. I was honored she asked me and I am happy I was able to do this for her.
Thank you Amanda for sharing your story and for allowing me to be a part of it. xoxo. Megan
The girls playing with their daddy’s golf clubs and wearing daddy’s shirts.
What a great tribute to an amazing person. Amanda made these cards to give out to keep JD’s memory alive.
