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Katydid makes send-off even more special

July 7, 2023

Our family chartered the Katydid, piloted by Capt. Brent Weist with first mate Chris of Lewes. It was a beautiful day. Brent and Chris had a good morning with another charter, returning to the dock with some big flounder. After they swabbed the deck, we were welcomed to board the boat. Brent and Chris ensured our safe boarding and made us aware of the safety regulations. They are both awesome!

We set out for our destination, the lighthouse aka a harbor retreat for ships in the 1800s. It was a beautiful ride out. Once there, we were ready to begin, but not with catching fish; we were there to release the ashes of Howard “Hoppy” Jackson, a father, a brother and an uncle to many. It was his wish to be released into the waters of where he grew up. After his release, we threw small individual wildflower bouquets, which formed a perfect line to float away.  

On our way back to the dock, there were several pods of dolphins playing in the water, Capt. Brent slowed down for us to enjoy the playfulness. At one point, two dolphins came completely out of the water, spun around and dove back in. What a beautiful and amazing sight. Brent explained that this is a rare occurrence. 

We knew it was “Hoppy” giving us a sign that he was free! Dad, brother, uncle, “May you rest easy and move gently with the ebb and flow of the tides. You will be forever remembered. Let the natural rocking of the ocean and its waves cradle you. Though your ashes will spread widely through these waters, you will never be far from our hearts. We love you.”

Capt. Brent and first mate Chris, our family cannot thank you enough for the experience you provided us with.
 
April Scott, daughter of Hoppy 
Janet Collins (Jackson), sister of Hoppy
Bonnie McDaniel, niece, with husband Dennis Willey
Mark Jackson, nephew
Eric Jackson, nephew, with wife Lisa Jackson
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