The Death of Stephen Bly

I was saddened to hear of the passing of cowboy novelist Stephen Bly, who rode out of this world and into the most glorious sunset on June 9. In 2008, he spoke at OCW and gave fantastic keynotes. I'd met him a few years before, but that was the first time I got to spend time with him and his lovely wife, Janet. He shared about his cancer diagnosis and I remember being struck by how he continued to live his life. His tender love for his wife impressed me as well.

 

 

OCW has a great sense of humor, so that year Mom and I added Villianous Mustaches to the editor and speaker's baskets.Steven also had a great sense of humor, so he wore won to deliver a keynote.

 

To me, this is his legacy: a committed writer, a pastor and community leader, a man not afraid to have fun, a creative plotter, a family man. A man chasing after God's own heart on a valiant stallion. His verve for life rubbed off on others, like ... well, like his mustache did. (This is Bethany House's Karen Schurrer and Agent Extraordinaire Sandra Bishop.*)

*And just so I can't be accused of embarrassing industry professionals, I'll use the blackmails photos against myself.

Can you imagine the magnificent fields through which he lopes a wild Mustang? Can you see the glints of wheat flying up in the sunshine behind the horse's hooves? Can you see him doff his hat and lift his head to bathe in the light of the Lord? How he leads a saddled, riderless horse behind him, waiting for sweet Janet to join him in heaven?

Stephen, we will miss you. Thank you so much for sharing your life with us.