As we mourn the loss of a son, brother, and friend, we rejoice that he is with his heavenly Father and no longer in pain or entangled with the affairs of this life.
What a sweet reunion to be with his mother (Carla) again.
Josh, the youngest son of Dr. Keith Gomez, pastor of Northwest Bible Baptist Church in Elgin, IL, passed away on Thursday, April 7, 2016.
Anyone who knew Josh, knew that he would light up any room the moment he walked into it.
He had a special way with people, even those whom he didn’t know.
Feel free to write your memories of Josh here, or leave some encouraging words for the Gomez family.
Pastor Gomez,
Sir I saw last night 8/15/16 of Josh’s passing and I am heart broken. Josh was a great friend to me when I was a young man. He was such a great guy and I know we will see him agian. My of my favorite memories of Josh was with him and Aaron and the Booth boys shooting hoops after church or before church Sunday nights. They were like my older brothers I had never had. Pastor I thank you for your all of your work to bring kids to church on Sundays and for the buses. Josh will be greatly missed. I will keep you and your family in my prayers. Thanks agian Pastor.
For the family: I am sorry I didn’t have the privilege of knowing Josh. .Praying for your hurting hearts and praying you will find in our loving Heavenly Father the comfort only He can give, as only He understands as none other is able- And find in His Word the answers only He can give. Praying you’ll know Him more intimately as you draw closer to Him and seek Him through the valley where we find Him closer than anywhere else in life.
Preacher and Miss Kim,
We just learned of Josh’s passing this evening browsing NBBC’s page and we are grieving. We loved Josh from the moment we met him. He always took the time to chat with us at Church and the last time Caroline saw him in the parking lot of Wayside, they had a great conversation.
We will always remember his smiling face.
Thank you for posting his funerals online. Your words are such an inspiration for all.
We are praying for you both.
We do miss you and love you.
Dear Bro. Gomez,
Thank you for faithfully sowing the Word of God even in the midst of tears, and working and yielding to our Lord Jesus so that good would come from your son’s passing. We were deeply moved by seeing your son’s home going service. We love you all and are praying for you.
I remember when I was a young boy Josh and myself along with Vince, Joey and Jason were at the Cedar river baptist camp and we collected a bunch of frogs from the clean swimming pool we had to swim in . On the way back home crossing the Mississippi River Josh opened the bus window lol and began throwing the frogs out the window into the river I thought that was a fun time and remember it about 28years later. I was a bus kid and came to church on the bus route and he always made me feel like a family member that I belonged, you have a good heart Josh and I will miss you……. Your friend Brett wilcosky
My heart hurts for your loss, will keep you in my prayers for comfort…. Love you Pastor Gomez
Keith, praying for you! Have traveled a similar road with the loss of a son in law, a wonderful Christian man, who left behind three kids and a great wife, Jana. ( our daughter) praying and love you. Levi in Cody.
I was just thinking about how good God is. To have met, served, and observed this young man. I have to give my testimony this weekend to a ladies group in Chicago. I was going over in my mind that faithful day I met Josh and Jason. Without that meeting, I would be going or be in hell today. Thank you Lord, It was a privilege to be his friend.
May 18, 2016
Dear Bro. Gomez,
I just learned earlier this afternoon about Joshua, and I have been thinking about you and praying for you throughout the day since. I loved Joshua, and often prayed for him. I wanted to extend my sympathies to you and tell you that I love you and am praying for you. God bless.
In Christ,
DeWayne Nichols
Pastor, Liberty Baptist Church; San Antonio TX
May 18, 2016
Dear Bro. Gomez,
I know that we have had only brief conversations and fellowship in the past but we here are no less effected by the passing of your son, Josh. We looked for a card but the world has no words that properly express the compassion or the hope we have for one another as God’s children and especially as servants of God. On top of your burden of the work I am sure you have suffered the deepest sorrows we can know. In the past four months both of my parents have passed as well as two very dear friends. I want you to know that you have been in our hearts as well as in our prayers. May I humbly leave some verses that comforted me in my sorrow?
“In the multitude of my thoughts within me thy comforts delight my soul.” Psalms 94:19
“Great is my boldness of speech toward you, great is my glorying of you: I am filled with comfort, I am exceeding joyful in all our tribulation.” II Corinthians 7:4
“Nevertheless God, that comforteth those that are cast down, comforted us by the coming of Titus.” II Corinthians 7: 6
I’m sure that you have told your people what I have told mine…”God may hurt us, bu He will never harm us.”
Through my sorrow God has continually manifested His loving kindness to me as I am sure He has to you. I have never gotten over God’s love for me, what a comfort!! I will be praying that God will give you a special comfort and a fresh anointing.
May God bless you and your ministry.
Your Fellow Servant,
Dr. Zane Abberger
Pastor; Lakeview Baptist Church; Lakeview MI
brother, sorry for your loss. Will pray for strength during this time
I never knew Josh but I am feeling just some of the pain his father is feeling. I pray the Lord surround him and his family
Dear Bro. Gomez & Kim, Just wanted to let you know you are in our thoughts and prayers. Praise God for Heaven! Love, Karen Caviness
“Jesus Is All of These”
In the darkness of night When no hope is in sight, I’ve a friend that sticks close by my side.
When the storm rages high To this dear friend I cry, And under His wings I can hide.
He’s the rock I lean on, He’s the calm in my storm. He’s the comforter that gives sweet peace.
When I’m weak He is strong. In the night He’s my song. Oh yes, Jesus is all of these!
When my path is unclear, I’ve a friend ever near, To guide me each step of the way.
For He knows what is best In each trial and each test, He’s the potter and I’m just the clay.
He’s the rock I lean on. He’s the calm in my storm. He’s the comforter that gives sweet peace.
When I’m weak He is strong. In the night He’s my song. Oh yes, Jesus is all of these! –Karen Caviness
Dear Pastor Gomez,
I’m Alani Rico, one of the teenagers in the church. I wrote this poem just for you, to help and encourage you. Just last year on this month April 21st, I lost my great grandmother, but I’m sure it is nothing compared to what you are going through. I hope my poem helps you in some small way. My family and I love you, Preacher. You are always in our prayers. Love, Alani Rico
“As I see your grief-stricken face, Just remember God has everything in place.
Remember Josh is in a place, he will hurt no more, the minute he walked through Heaven’s open door.
His smile lights up everywhere he goes, knowing he will never again have the fears we know.
He’s singing songs in Beulahland with his mother now, knowing he will never see another frown.
Patiently, he’s waiting to meet you there someday, but for now he’ll have to wait with memory’s tucked away.” – Alani Rico
Preacher Gomez
I found a couple poems that I thought might be nice for you to have in a time of loss. I want you to know that I had the opportunity to work with Josh. He seemed to always know how to make the men on the job laugh even on the hottest of days digging sewer lines with Brother Horne. I will always remember the laughing he caused me to have. My heart and prayers go out to you and your family. I love you, Preacher, and I know God will be there to comfort you through. I hope these poems help.
Brothers in Christ,
Bryan Palmer
Thou Passest Through
“When thou passest through the waters, Deep the waves may be and cold, But Jehovah is our refuge, And His promis is our hold; For the Lord Himself hath said it, He, the faithful God and true: When thou comest to the waters, Thou shalt not go down, but THROUGH!
Seas of sorrow, seas of trial, Bitterest anguish, fiercest pain, Rolling surges of temptation Sweeping over heart and brain. Thou shall never overflow us, For we know Hi Word is true; All His waves and all His billows He will lead us safely THROUGH.
Threatening breakers of destruction; Doubt’s insidious undertow, Shall not sink us, shall not drag us, Out to oceans depth of woe; For His promise shall sustain us, Praise the Lord, whose Word is True! We shall not go down, or under, For He saith, “Thou passest THROUGH.” — Annie Johnson Flint
“He Knows”
He knows it all – the winding path, The sky o’ercast and gray,
The steepness of the mountainside, The roughness of the way.
He knows it all – the haunting fear, the doubtings that distress,
The wond’rings and perplexities, And all the strain and stress.
He knows it all – each troubled thought, Each anxious wave of care,
And every burden, every grief, Or cross that thou dost bear.
He knows it all – thy weight of woe, thine often tear-dimmed eye;
The stabbing pain, the slow, dull ache, And sorrow’s broken cry.
He knows it all – you are His child, Thy wounds He takes by choice.
He gave Himself to bring you home, So trust Him, and rejoice! — E. Margaret Clarkson
Dear Preacher and Kim,
Our heart is just crushed over this news of Josh. We loved him very much. He was a kind, caring, loving and gentle person. We are continually praying for you and your whole family. Sure hope you can feel all the prayers from all and it is helping to ease the loss and pain of your son. His home-going is so painful, but yet so happy in the same sense. He is now in NO more pain! He is kissing and hugging on his mom (Carla) like I have seen him do so many times here on earth. we will surely miss him but hang onto the truth that we all will see him again real soon.
Preacher, we want to express our love for you and want to thank you for being our preacher/pastor for these last 20 years. We have learned so much from you and hopefully, we are acting on it. You are a wonderful man of God and we feel blessed to be under you and in your congregation. Just know we care, pray, and love you even if we don’t always tell you. God be with you during this most difficult time.
Love you always…
Bob and Susan Maser
Preacher, Miss Kim and family,
Steve and I are so heart-broken on the early home-going of your son, Josh. We love you and will miss Josh. His enthusiasm and infectious laugh will always be remembered. I want you to know that he continues to inspire and teach. He won’t be forgotten.
Love, the Hallbergs
Preacher,
Words cannot express our deepest sympathy for you and your family. Our hearts ache for you and I have absolutely no words to say except Josh is now with his wonderful mother.
You did something today that no man should ever have to do (preach your own son’s funeral!). I know this is by the grace of God that you were able to do this and the impression was made on many lives.
I was thinking about Josh and recalling his big smile and how he was always polite and considerate to Marsha and me. I also remember that Sunday morning service when Josh was so close to dying there in California when you and Mrs. Gomez were there, Al Oprzedek and I…we just stopped our ushering duties in the foyer, fell on our knees and begged god for that boy to make it through all this and live through that horrible wreck. Everybody was on their knees praying.
Preacher, we wish we could have been there to offer you in person our love and support, but were unable. Please know our hearts are always with you and the great people of Northwest. We miss all the folks so much. As we sat glued to the website and the tears streaming down for you and your precious family, you must know and realize how you, sir, and your family have touched so many lives. You certainly touched our lives those 19 years at Northwest.
We continuously pray for you and we always will.
Love you dear folks,
Woody & Marsha Davis
Preacher,
Pauline and I both agree that our experiences with Joshua helped us tremendously in raising up our son, Keith! Those two had some similar traits and personality “bents” although they are many years apart in age.
We definitely say that “school was in session for us” around Josh and seeing him in some ways aided us in raising our Keith.
What a Blessing!
With sympathy and Love,
Ken, Pauline and family
Dear Brother Gomez,
I cannot even fathom the heartache and battles that you have been through in your life and ministry. You’re an amazing man to see how God has used you through the years. You’re an example to all of us on how to keep going on.
I admire you and love you as a preacher and a Christian. I’m sorry for the heartache that you have had to face. I do not know how you feel, but thank God for the One whom we service who knows all things and gives us strength.
I love you, my brother, and will continue to pray for you and your family. If there is anything in the world that I can do to be a help or a blessing to you, please let me know.
Your friend in Christ,
Pastor Darrell Cox
Trinity Baptist Church
Mocksville NC
Dear Preacher Gomez,
We are so sorry to hear that Josh passed away so young. I love you and your family so much and pray God showers you with comfort and the treasure of his memories.
I will miss my friend, one who I considered like a brother. Josh always took good care of us Botello kiddos. He was always very protective of my brothers and me (and my sisters). There are many good memories to share from car pooling, school, soul winning, being silly and sound advice when needed. He encouraged me to wait for the man God had for me and encouraged my potential in life. We even wept together over Mrs. Gomez. I’m looking forward to heaven and seeing our loved ones gone before me.
We pray for and are thankful for your faithfulness to the Lord and the ministry we were able to grow up under.
Josh was loved and will be greatly missed.
Israel & Rosalinda (Botello) Juarez
Dear Brother Gomez,
I’m so sorry to hear about the loss of your son. As we grow older, it seems our heartaches are multiplied. I just wanted to let you know I do care, and I can identify with your loss. It was thirteen years ago, and the first of April, that Charlene and I lost Rachel, our 24 year old daughter. I don’t know anything that can prepare you for the news that one of your children has died. Know this, you’ve got people all over the world that love you and are praying for you.
At first you just try to make sense of it all, then you ask yourself, what could I have done to stop this, and then you blame yourself. these first few weeks, you will find yourself just trying to push back the pain. I don’t know you like many of the pastors around the country, but I have a preacher’s love for you, and I share your heartache and your loss. May God give you an extra portion of grace as you say goodbye to your beloved son.
If there is ever anything I can do for you, please call me.
Sincerely,
Bobby D. Toler
Pastor
Harvest Baptist Church; Grass Lake Michigan
Dear Pastor Gomez,
My heart aches for your pain, having lost your wife and now your precious Joshua. Only the Lord can heal and console! His peace and His grace are so real in times like these. Karen and I understand your pain, we are both praying for you!
Love you,
Luis Ramos
Dear Preacher and Kim,
I’m sorry for your loss of your son, Josh. I want you to know what a blessing he was to me. Josh had the power of God on his life, but not only that, he had the love of Christ in him and it showed.
Every time he saw me, he hugged me and told me he loved me. He touched my heart in a way that is very hard to explain. I loved Josh as a son and often thought of him and wondered how he was doing. I prayed for him many times and wished I could have helped him in some way.
I truly believe he is in a much better place and with his mama, Carla. I know I will see him one day and he will be perfect and so will I. When you make a friend with a christian, you have an eternal friend.
Please take comfort in knowing you will see him some day again.
We love you and will be praying for healing in all of your hearts.
Love, Lee & Sandy Briley
Dear Brother Gomez,
I just learned of your tragic loss and wanted to send along this note to express the deepest sympathy of my wife and myself as well as all the members of Hope Baptist Church. I cannot imagine the weight of grief that you are under, but I do know the great comfort that our heavenly Father supplies in times like these.
In all these trials even after all these years of service, our Father still works in trials and tragedies to make the vessel “as seems good”. Thankfully, we know that in the worst of trials we are still “in His hands” …
Our prayers and thoughts are with you and Kim.
Your friend and brother,
Rick Sowell
Pastor Gomez and Family,
So sorry to hear about your son and the pain this has caused you. I know it is not an easy road ahead. But God is faithful and helps us grow more abundantly through our hardest trials. I pray for God’s glory in this situation for you and your church family. In our thoughts and prayers…
Love in Christ,
Luke & Lisa Guenther
Members of Southside Baptist church
West Allis WI
Dear Preacher Gomez,
Hello, just want to say I am sorry to hear about the passing away of Josh. I have many memories of Josh Gomez during our youth. Went to school together, went with Josh Boyd together. He came to Mexico to preach for me in a Mexican Tent Revival. I learned many things from Him during that time. He was a friend to me. I was in Mexico during the funeral. Praying for you often. I hope to see you again…
Carlos Chacon
Dear Bro. Gomez,
Words fall very short when the heart hurts at certain levels. I can only attempt to measure a small span of your loss and pain. However, I desire to tell you that I am pressing you to the Lord and thinking about you. You are a beloved brother of great worth and I consider you a tall tree in a forest of many trees.
Thank you for your inspiration to me and your testimony!
You are loved,
Bro. Dave Brown
Decatur, IL
Preacher,
Thank you so much for visiting us in the hospital. We appreciate you taking the time to come and help and encourage us in our time of need while you were needing your own. We love you so much. We appreciate all you do for us. Thank you also for the medical expense help. I don’t know what we would do without it. It really is a great blessing! Thank you for the opportunity to work of this great place! Stacey & Carrie Merriott
Our hearts mourn with you. We love you and are praying for you!
Love, Charles & Debbie Copeland
George and I are so saddened to hear about Josh and his home-going. I know it has to be extremely difficult to say good-bye to your son and the pain of losing him. I can only imagine how you and your family are feeling and just want you to know we are and have been praying ever since we heard the news.
We do love you and your family and rejoice with you on knowing Josh is reunited once again with his mom and resting in the arms of Jesus. What a reunion!
With sincere love and sympathy,
George & Sue Turnpaugh
May 3, 2016
Dear Bro. & Sis Gomez,
Bro. Barnd told us, when they returned from their visit to see the college, about your son’s passing. We are so sorry. Our hearts ache with you! I just read it again this morning. “Jesus wept.” Our dear Lord sure knows all about your sorrow and your tears are precious to Him!
May God strengthen your hearts each day with His sustaining grace!
Love and Prayers,
Dave & Brenda Coyle & Family
Bro. & Mrs. Gomez,
Crystal and I are praying for you. We know that God’s strength will see you through this time. Please know we are praying for you.
Joseph & Crystal Elwell
Dear Brother Gomez & Miss Kim,
Pam and I want you to know that our love, thoughts and prayers have been with the family and you ever since we received word of Josh’s death. I pray for Miss Kim and you every day, but even more so at this time. Pam and I always loved Josh. He lived in our home for 6 months, plus when we lived in Oklahoma City. He stayed in our home for a while when we lived in Pingree Grove. I drove him back and forth to doctor’s and physical therapy many times. He was special to us. We love you and all the family.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you daily. May the Holy Ghost, the Comforter, continue to comfort your hearts.
Bro. & Mrs. CW Fisk
Dear Pastor Gomez and Miss Kim,
Our family has you and your family in our thoughts and prayers during this most difficult time of loss. There are no words to express our sorrow and to offer adequate comfort for your pain and grief. Our Almighty Father, however, is the great comforter! Sending our love and praying for you folks.
Much love,
The DeForest Family
(Tad; Tina, Timothy & Taylor)
We are keeping you in our thoughts and prayers at this sad time.
With love,
Lowell and Carolyn Martin
Our hearts have gone out to you with understanding upon the home-going of your son. The loss of a child is very, very difficult and isn’t easily dealt with. Even though we know God is good and doesn’t make mistakes, that doesn’t take away the pain and grief nor the empty place left. We pray for you and your family and trust God Himself will comfort you as you depend on Him.
God Bless!
Robert & Amanda Anglea
Sending love and prayers to each of you during this time.
Sincerely,
Daryl & Joann Penley
Dear Brother Gomez,
We were so sorry to hear of the loss of your son. It is always such a sad time for a family and friends. Our hearts go out to you at this time and know our Lord is near and will comfort your soul as only He can. May He be close and meet your every heartache with His love. 1 Peter 1:21
Because of Calvary,
Bob & Kathi Zemeski
(Your Ireland Missionaries)
Dear Brother Gomez & Family,
I was so sad to hear of Josh. My prayers are with you all during this dark hour. Christy & I both knew him.
Look for the sunrise. Joy comes in the morning. Hang in there and the grace of God will yield the peace that passes all understanding. I admire you, Dr. Gomez, for so many reasons.
With love… Bro Russ Riggs; Job 23:10
Dear Bro. & Mrs. Gomez,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you many times each day as you bear the agony of losing your dear son, Josh. May the outpouring of God’s grace strengthen and comfort you in the days ahead. With our deepest sympathy and love.
Woody & Carol Baumgartner
Stevens Point, WI
May 1, 2016
Dear Preacher,
Thank you, thank you, thank you for being such a great pastor, leader and man of God! Thank you for being strong and not afraid to speak the truth, even when it is hard and not popular. What a privilege it is to have grown up under and to still be under the hard preaching. I love it and am 100% behind you.
Please know you and your family continue to be in my prayers. Josh was five years older than me, so that along with his very strong personality meant I was quite intimidated by him as a child and teen. To this day I have yet to meet a stronger and more influential leader among Josh’s peers. My favorite memory of him is that he loved to sing. Every bus trip we took, Josh would get everyone singing, and it was so special to be a part of. I really missed that when he was graduated and no longer in the youth group.
Preacher, I love you and Miss Kim. You along with my parents, have 100% veto power over any decision in my life. Any time you feel I ought to be doing or ought not be doing something, all you need to do is say the word and with no explanation needed, I trust you enough to listen.
Thank you, again, for your many years of sacrificial service to our church. May you one day understand the impact your life, your ministry and your preaching made on so many people. Tara Hall
My dear Preacher and Miss Kim,
My prayers and thoughts have gone out to you daily. One thought was how good it is that Miss Kim is by your side and how loving and understanding she is. Also, how good to have Jason and Ashley and their spouses and ALL those dear grandchildren.
Jim loved Josh dearly. I know how grieved he would be for you and your family, but he’s with him and they are probably talking it out up in heaven… Why would they want to leave?
Our families go back all the years you have been here. You have been such a blessing to me as my Preacher, my boss, and a great mentor. Your family is very special to me. I enjoyed teaching Josh the short time I had him and allowing him to stay with us was a joy. You can know he was a gentleman and appreciated ‘the oldies” of the church. You have heard words from the Best and the wisest… Thank you for teaching me how to love and grieve the Bible way. So, my words may not be so special, but I pray for you and your family always. They and you are loved by me. Please, if you can, your church family would like to see you take some time off and grieve so you can come back stronger. You have to take care of yourself right now…Miss Kim too!
Because we love you…. Nancy Landon
Pastor,
The other day a very godly man in our church stopped to tell me he’d been praying for me. I replied that I had been praying for him. You see, his wife has been struggling with mental illness and now has been diagnosed with cancer. She was once a pillar in the church and her emotional state is unexplained; she is an awesome person! He replied saying, “The Lord has you and me on display right now.” I hadn’t thought of it like that, but he hit the nail right on the head. It is exactly the same way for you – ten-fold! I wish I was at the stage where I could give you some profound advice and wisdom, but I’m afraid I’m still feeling sick and shaking my head in disbelief. Although it sounds cliche, talking to people who have “been there” really did/does help because I don’t have to explain anything to them. They don’t say, “How are you?” because they already know. Take care of yourself and your family first, Pastor! I will keep praying for you.
Bill & Eli Pignanello; Santa Clara, CA
Sampling of hundreds of texts sent to Preacher Gomez in the days following the passing of his son, Joshua…
Israel Ballesteros (childhood friend of Josh & Nbbc church member); “Preacher, we love you and your family. I’ve been saddened and weeping over my buddy, Josh, going home. So many memories with him! He made it a point to get hold of me just a few days ago while my dad was in the hospital. We laughed and cried together on the phone and now, he’s gone. Your family is in our hearts.”
Evangelist Tim Green; Milford Ohio; “My Brother, I am shattered by the news of Josh’s passing. My prayers have been with him daily for years…right up to eternity’s day. Carla can care for him now. I love you, my Brother!”
Pastor Dennis Higgins, Harbor Baptist Church, Moorestown, NJ; “Dear Bro. Gomez, I am so sorry for your great loss. I really loved Josh and prayed for him much through the years! I will certainly be praying for you, your family, and church during this very difficult time. Love you, my friend!”
Dr. Dan Woodward; First Baptist Church; Dwight IL; “Praying for you this morning that God’s mighty grace would fall upon you like it never has before. Grace upon Grace. You have been on my heart all night. Again, if you need anything, please call. Praying for you and your kids. Cindy and I send our love.”
Pastor Jon Booth; Gateway Baptist Church; Clinton, Iowa; “Preacher, I love you! My heart breaks for you and your family at this time. I want you to know, as Josh and Carlos held that teen tent revival, Josh’s zeal for the Lord was contagious. It helped me understand that God was interested in using teenagers for His glory. God used Josh to help inspire me to live for God as a teenager. I can’t imagine the heartache you’re dealing with. I’m praying for you and I love you.”
Pastor Mike Johnson; Shasta Baptist Church, Redding, CA: “We grieve with you, my friend. The Boy is safe at last! If we can do anything….”
Pastor Joe Grimaldi; First Baptist Church; Akron OH; “My dear friend, Words are a hollow expression of the sorrow that I feel for your loss. Be assured of our love and prayers for you and your family.”
Evangelist Sam Gipp; Canton, OH; “Hi, Keith, I just heard about Josh. Kathy and I will be praying for you. I know you are surrounded by friends, but you have one more here. God bless you.”
Pastor Bob Buchanan, Sr; Central Baptist Church; Baton Rouge LA: “You did all you could for him.”
Evangelist Randy Taylor; West Union, WV: “My dear Friend, If I could, I would not be able to express my broken heart for you and the entire Gomez family at this time. I love you and your family and I love Joshua. Donna and I are standing by in love, prayer, friendship and support. God bless you!”
Evangelist Bill Grady; Maryville, TN; “Just got off the phone with Lori Dickman. I cannot tell you how sad Linda and I are to hear about Joshua. I just came across a picture of us with you and him and was going to bring it to you tomorrow. He’s certainly out of his pain now. We’ll be praying for you and your family. Love you, Doc! P.S. I just had a sweet thought. Josh is with his mama now! Praise the Lord for old-time religion!”
Youth Pastor Bubba Payte; Bible Baptist Church; Highland, IN: “There are no words to describe this valley…I mourn with you…I hurt with you…This is a “time”…no adjectives can describe …these moments…like none other…I’ve never hurt like I have since my daddy left us…I can’t say anything that is relevant to your pain…but, I am praying for you and your family…As you walk through this valley there is a shadow that falls over you and your family. But shadows are only cast when there is a brighter Light shining above. I will be there Friday.”
Pastor Jay Reed; Peachtree Road Baptist Church; Suwanee, GA: “Just saw that Josh passed away. Shannon and I wept together for you and your family. This thing is so brutal down here (you certainly know that better than most), but you have shown great faithfulness in the face of terrible losses. Shannon and I learned from you how to stand when we hurt; and walk on when our hearts were crushed. We are praying for you, and we love you, your family and your church family.”
Pastor Jack Trieber, North Valley Baptist Church; Santa Clara, CA: “Bro. Gomez, I have been praying for you since I heard yesterday. I’ve been wanting to call you but I did not want to overstep my boundaries. My heart aches for you. Please call me when you’re ready to talk. I love you, Brother Gomez. You’re my dear friend. Just wanted to let you know I love you and I hurt for you! You are a great man of God and I count you as a dear friend. I can’t believe you preached today! Please take time to grieve. Foolish for me to say this…You have already been down this path with Carla. My heart is broken for you! You are such a great man! I am praying for you!”
April 11, 2016
Dear Bro. Gomez and Family,
My heart is deeply saddened as you go through this time of sorrow. I have prayed for God’s grace to be heavy on you and your family as you go through this very difficult time.
I will not be able to attend the funeral, but I will be praying for you and the family. I pray other young men will be moved to live their life faithfully for our Lord as a result of Joshua’s life. Mrs. Smith and I love you all dearly.
Happily Serving my Savior,
Dr. Bob Smith
Psalms 71:18
April 11, 2016
Preacher,
I’ve always had a special place in my heart for Josh. I loved that boy…he was compassionate, funny and absolutely infuriating…and could even be all three at the very same time!
It is hard to believe that he is gone. My mind keeps going back to so many memories…times when I was helping you and your family after Josh, you and Carla came back to Illinois from California in August of 2007. It was so hard to watch first-hand the struggle your family was going through as the doctors were trying to get Joshua’s meds correct so he could eat, keep food down, and gain weight… It was hard watching how hurt and torn both you and Carla were through it all.
I remember when both Carla and Josh were in the hospital at the same time. That whole situation would have devastated anyone else, but the Lord held you firm and helped you stand strong through all those agonizing months. Your faith WAS and IS like a rock; and you are such a godly example for each of us to follow as we enter the trials that we will encounter in our lives.
i remember spending time with either Carla or Joshua while they were hospitalized and taking care of whatever needs came up for both of them, keeping them company when you or the family could not be in their rooms. It was so hard to imagine that two members of the same family could have so much happening at the very same time! It was like the flood doors opened and couldn’t be closed for a long while.
One day, after Joshua got to feeling a bit stronger, he and Carla came to the church to visit you after a doctor appointment. He was seated in my office next to my desk and Carla walked in here from your office…she smiled at him with such love; patted him and spoke some loving words to him. It is a beautiful picture in my mind that I will never forget. The love of a mother is indescribable! It is so wonderful to know that Carla now gets to spend time…eternity…with her baby boy!
I remember after Carla passed away and after Josh got stronger, he came to work here for a little while. He would often come in and sit down next to my desk and talk to me about so much… About life, his hopes and dreams, some of his fears and guilt… He missed his mother so much. One day, in tears, he asked me, “Could you be my mama, Mrs. Dickman?” How heart-wrenching that question was from a young man who was feeling so very vulnerable…a hurting child… No one could replace his mama! But, now he is with Jesus AND his mama! I can just imagine the utter joy they both had when they met one another in Heaven on Thursday! And Papa Gomez! Imagine the hugs and the joy!
It is so wonderful to know that now Josh has no pain! He can see! He is running up and down the Street of God, meeting and greeting everyone there with that twinkle in his eye and that great big Gomez smile! I know he’ll still have his sense of humor in Heaven…but I wonder… will he still tease and jest and infuriate…just “because”? Yup! I’m sure he will!
We are all praying for you, Preacher. We love you and covet the Holy Spirit’s comfort and strength as He…once again…heals your broken heart.
Lori Dickman
Secretary; NBBC; Elgin IL
April 15, 2016
Dear Brother Gomez,
How many times do I wish I had the right thing to say – anything to say that might help someone who is suffering? I’ve tried to think my way into your heartbreak many times, always hoping that maybe the Lord would use me to be a comfort when you needed it. The thought of you having lost your wife is just too overwhelming to process. Added to that, losing your son not once, but twice – losing so much of his body and mind, and then losing him again last Thursday – it all seems too much for one man. I believe that God is good, but this fallen world can be so very bad. I know that Heaven is real and that it is closer than we think, but it often seems so far away. I know how little help words offer in these times, but allow me to write just a few in the sincere hope that they might bless you.
I thank the Lord that He allowed me to meet you at that restaurant all those years ago. I thank Him that you called me in Baton Rouge and allowed me to join your team in Elgin. I’m thankful for your wisdom and patience in dealing with my many shortcomings. I thank you for providing an environment for my children to grow and thrive in. I thank you for continually praying for my family and for showing open affection for my wife and children (it’s harder to that for me – I know.) I thank you for being a faithful, prepared preacher – every Sunday and Wednesday. I thank you for sharing counsel with me for so many decisions big and small. I thank you for helping me transition to pastoring. I thank you for supporting my work with Global. I thank you for standing with me and Shannon during our sorrow – I knew that you understood and that your heart was broken with ours. I thank you finally, for just staying on your feet. You’ve had every excuse to throw in the towel, (and no one could have faulted you for doing so), yet, here you stand.
There is more I could say, but I’ll let Heaven fill in the rest. I hope that this helps in some small way, and I hope that someday, some kid-preacher will be able to look at me like I look at you. I love you.
Sincerely,
Jay Reed
Pastor; Peachtree Road Baptist Church; Suwanee, GA
Dear Preacher Gomez,
Watching the live stream for this week’s Sunday evening services, I was shocked to hear of the passing of your son. Please allow me to convey my deepest condolences. I did not know him well, but we did chat on a few occasions. When I first began attending in the last 1990’s, he extended a warm, hospitable greeting, for which I am still deeply grateful. Also, I remember once or twice discussing conspiracy theories, a subject for which I am, for better or worse, quite an expert. So was Josh, evidently. He was a smart, friendly guy, touched by a strain of sweet eccentricity, a valuable quality underscoring his individuality.
During the Sunday evening service in which his death was announced, several members of NBBC stood at the mic to reminisce about Josh. Not present, I would like to share my favorite memory. Sometime in the months after his motorcycle accident, when his wounds were raw and quite visible, I saw him wandering somewhat unsteadily about the auditorium, chatting with members before the service. Of course, his many friends were anxious to ask questions, though Josh’s energy was quickly diminishing. At one point Carla, smiling, pushed gently through the throng and approached him, holding out her hand. Without a touch of embarrassment or bashfulness, Josh took her hand and she tenderly led him to the pew where they usually sat, a safe haven. It was a quiet, beautiful moment, a mother caring for her injured son, protecting him from weariness and potential confusion. I could sense between them a strong bond.
So now both Carla and Josh have placed their hands in the hand of Jesus, who has led them to the safe haven. Those of us left behind on this fallen earth await the hand of Jesus. Though I attend irregularly, many of my cherished moments were birthed in this church. You have inspired me, over and over again, to remain strong, to cut through nonsense and fly the banner of truth, whatever the price. I pray that you and NBBC will “occupy ’til he comes” – and then, at long last, we’ll all sing and shout the victory.
Looking upward,
Keith Call
Wheaton, Illinois
My Dear Friend,
The past few weeks have been flooded with many precious memories of days gone by. I have again been overwhelmed by God’s goodness in allowing me the enjoyment as well as the influence of your friendship in my life. Because of the deep love that I have for you and your family, my heart has been deeply affected by both your joys and heartbreaks. There have been times that to simply stand by your side has been all that I have known to do, because I have not been able to find the words to express my heart. I daily lift your name in prayer, asking God to bring you the healing and assurance needed to take the next step forward in His will.
Thank you for allowing me the privilege of preaching at your Vision Unlimited Banquet. I trust that God was able to use me and I thank you for the most generous honorarium. I enjoyed the delicious meal and opportunity to be with you and Miss Kim, your family, and the many friends that I have there. It was exciting to see what God has done through your leadership and the hearts of all those involved in the VU Program. What a testimony!
Again, please know that you are ever in my thoughts and prayers. I will miss Josh as I miss Carla, but rejoice that we will all spend Eternity together with our wonderful Savior. I am praying for your hurting heart.
Your brother and friend,
Daniel L. Woodward
Pastor; First Baptist Church; Dwight Illinois
Dear Pastor Gomez, It was sad to hear that Josh had passed away. I will be keeping you and your family in my prayers.
Dear Preacher, just a few words to tell you that my heart is broken for you and your family, I remember Josh as a happy little guy when you came to NBBC and I know he was a joy to everyone who knew him. I was able to ask my Grandson Michael to bring me to Church to view Josh and hug your neck along with so many who I love and have not seen for a long time. I am not able to drive far so I cannot be at the services that I know I would love to hear, but I do go on line and enjoy hearing you Preach. I think of you and Miss Carla so much her sweet spirit and how I love your family. I have your family picture on my dresser with my Mom and Mary and my youngest Granddaughter Shelby who all have gone home to be with the Lord. I love you and Pray for you and the family. Donna
Dear Pastor Gomez:
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family . It was sad to hear that Josh had passed away. May God Put you and your family into the palm of his hand and draw you closer to his loving heart.
May God Bless you and family
Dr. Daniel Riggs, and family- Bethel Baptist College, Jacksonville Ar
Dear Gomez family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. It’s been years since I attended College there. I still remember Josh and his smile. I also remember him taking the time to help me with a special speaking project from class, even when he didn’t have too. He will be missed.
Many memories passed through my mind the instant that I learned of Josh’s passing. We both have made choices. If any one out there is thinking of running, let me say this…if you give Satan just a little you will live with a regret from your decisions that at times are unbearable. Pastor Gomez, Jason, Ashley I pray your hearts will heal and that you have comfort during this time.
Dear Preacher and Mrs Gomez simple words from a simple lady I love you and hurt along with you both, and thank you preacher for everything for your un conditional love these many years .About josh I wont ever forget how josh always dressed so sharp, even with those shoes he must of got from the south east side of chicago, the both us us often had a good laugh together. And what really really touched my heart was he always gave me a hug, and he didnt have to,
for who am i but just a old lady. Praying for you Preacher and Mrs Gomez, along with the whole Gomez family.
Our prayers and thoughts are with you. Josh will be never be forgotten in our hearts, he was one of three angels, sent to our son! May God comfort you, and continue to work through you all. Thanks be to GOD and to each of you. Most Sincerely, Bob and Nancy Dietsche.
Br. And Mrs. Gomez and family,
God bless you all and I want you to know that Crystal and I are praying for you. Br. Gomez, you have suffered much, my friend but God is using you mightily. Thank you for staying faithful!
We love you sll
Br Elwell and Crystal
Dear Bro. Gomez, Kim and family,
We are so sorry for your loss. We regret we were unable to attend the funeral. (We were in SC when we got the news). Our thoughts and prayers have been with you continually since we heard of Josh’s passing. We have many fond memories of Josh growing up and being a good friend to our boys. May God’s grace bring comfort to your grieving hearts.
With love and continued prayers,
Pastor and Mrs. Woody Baumgartner
Bro Gomez & family. May God continue to comfort & strengthen you and your family. You have been in our thoughts & prayers, and will continue to pray for you & your family.
Rick & Alice Huseman
I have been praying for you. It was impossible to be there today, but was able to livestream the precious service.
Ron and I loved Josh very much. After Ron went to Heaven Josh would keep in touch from time to time. He was a very special and caring young man.
Praise the Lord for Grace,Comfort and Strength. Much love.
Our hearts are hurting for you dear people and for our church family at NBBC. We love you all, and are praying for you.
Our prayers are with the Gomez family and friends.
I will always cherish the memory of Josh Gomez. He was a blessing to me and always was kind and treated me lovingly. I loved him like a son and will miss him greatly….he is a great loss to our Christian family!
Preacher and family, please find strength in knowing where he is and knowing one day you will see him in perfection.
Our prayers go to you and your family.
Love,
Lee and Sandy Briley
Just a few lines to say that I am hart broken to know that Josh has died but I know it was God’s will. I met Josh when he was about 4 when the family came to Illinois from Louisiana, he was always a happy little boy and a smiling young man. He will be missed by his family so much but he has beat us all to Heaven and I know we will see him again. My Prayers for the whole Gomez family I love all of you, God bless and keep his hand on everyone. I remember Josh starting songs at his Mothers funeral, that was so sweet, Love you Josh
Love you Donna Ciasto
Bro. Gomez and family,
May you find the strength in the promises of God’s word and comfort in the God of all grace during this time. I was remembering Joshua and the big Tent Revival in Salt Lake City, UT with Evangelist Dr. Joe Boyd, Josh is included in that privileged band of brothers, one of Joe Boyd’s preacher boys.
With prayers and the deepest sympathy,
Oliver and Kim
Dear Preacher Gomez,
Sorry for your loss.We would like to send our condolences to you and your family.
You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
May God give the entire Gomez Family peace and comfort at this time of loss. We will cherish the memories that we have of Josh being in our home in OK and IL. We know that Josh is so happy to be with his Savior and singing praises with his mother. We love you and are praying for you.
Bro. & Mrs. Fisk
Phil. 4:13
You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Praying for comfort and strength for you and ypur family
Dr. Keith Gomez & family. So very sorry for your loss. Praying. God bless you! Praise the Lord he is born again believer and in heaven! Something the world cannot take comfort in when death occurs.
Dear Bro. Keith and family,
We are so very heart broken for you all. It came as quite a shock when we heard that Josh had passed away. We have many fond memories of your children and ours becoming friends over the years as they grew up. We have been, and will continue to be, praying for you all.
With deepest sympathy,
Bill and Linda Grady
I just wanted to mention that we were praying for Brother Gomez and the family.
We love and appreciate you and the Church and your ministry to so many.
Josh was a great inspiration to my family and I…from our very first visit at NBBC he made us feel welcome with his greeting and big smile…later we saw his love and dedication to the Lord when he organized the teen tent revival ….all this and more when he was only 17 years of age!!! We are praying for you, Preacher, and family and that Josh’s home going will reach and inspire many more than he ever did during his short lifetime here on Earth…
Dearest Preacher,
I would like to send my condolences to you and your family. Michael Aufiero wanted me to express his sincere saddness after learning of Josh’s passing. We have and will continue to lift you and your family up in prayer.
Love in Christ,
Sherry Aufiero Johnson
( Ryan’s Mother and brother)
When Josh was about 5 years old, my husband Larry LaCroix and I took care of him for a day. We took him out for lunch at the Hyatt revolving restaurant near the airport. Our booth was in a corner where we could look way down. Of course this was intriguing to Josh and we had to constrain him from viewing downward but he was not concerned about his safety like we were.
He also loved going up and down the glass enclosed elevator with us. Larry held him so he could see better. He did not want to leave so he ignored the fact that he had to use the bathroom! Needless to say what happened after that!!
Always a joy to be around Josh and watching him grow into a man who always had a smile and friendly to everyone. This is a great loss to those of us who loved him, and praying for you Preacher and your family during a most difficult time.
I can remember Josh play for my team at football camp. He put it all out on the field for his team. I also remember when he was so excited to cook for my wife and I after I preached at the church. He made a Cajun seafood dish that was amazing. We had a great time at his parents house. He was so excited to serve us. Love you Josh and praying for the family.
My prayers go out to Pastor Keith and his family. I met and liked Joshua, he reminded me of one of my boys. I prayed for him and now he is with the Lord and his mother, awaiting us. Even so come Lord Jesus!
Love you brother Keith and will continue to pray for you. Bro Bob
Josh has always been a special young man. We have many fond memories of him. We are praying for the entire Gomez family, so very sorry for your loss.
I remember Josh always encouraging my family to stay faithful to God and church. He will be missed. Praying for my Preacher and his family.
Last Sunday I was on the internet looking for a live streaming church service, and out of tens and tens of choices i got connected to your church in USA , and there was paster Gomez talking about the lost of his son, i listened to the memories that people had with Josh and how he had a charisma and was full of life, it was so emotional hearing a dad talking about the loss of his son . I never heard about your church before, came to your site by accident and here I’m from the other side of the world in London Uk watching you live for a short time, but i could tell you have a great church and a good paster . May the Love of God be with you all, praying for paster Gomez and his family .
R. Diab London UK
We are sorry for your loss.. we know what it’s like to lose a child our hearts and prayers go out to you and your family. Josh will be missed. Praying for God’s strength and comfort.
I have known Josh since he was 4yrs old. Always busy, he kept you on your toes even at four he always had a smile and a great sense of humor. I remember watching him and Jason and Ashley in one of the Sunday School rooms ( Prospect Hts ) and in the room was two large tubes. well Josh decided to up-end one and climb inside head first and got stuck. I had to pull him out by his feet mind you he was not a light weight. I will miss him greatly.
Praying for my pastor and his family during this difficult time. Josh was a great person and made you feel important.
Bro. Gomez, our hearts go out to you and your family during this time. I can’t imagine losing a child. May the good Lord be with you in a special way. My family and I are praying for you.
We love the Gomez family and are praying for peace and comfort for you all at this time. Josh and his brilliant smile and charming personality will be missed. Thankful he’s reunited with his momma in heaven!
Josh will be missed. We had many fun times growing up. Like the time he put worms in my belt loops during the Riverwoods flood. My heart is heavy though for my preacher and his family. Preacher, the Mele family loves you and we and are praying for God’s strength during this time.
I remember when the Pritchett family visited NBBC the first time that Josh and Jason greeted us at the door. They made us feel welcome.
It was a blessing being soulwinning partners with Josh for part of my junior year at PBC. He’ll be missed.
Thinking of you all and praying for you!! So sad to read this!
Josh always had a smile on his face and a laugh to share. He will be missed. Many prayers for the Gomez family during this time.
Our condolences for the loss of the family. We pray for comfort and strength for all the loved ones. GOD Bless!
Praying for the Gomez family during this time. Josh always made me laugh. He will be missed.
Dear Bro. Gomez and family,
I do not have the words to express my grief at your loss of Josh. My dear friend our prayers are with you, your family and the folks of NBBC.
sending prayers for pastor Gomez and his family. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
It was there at the God Save America conference, that it was announced about Josh and others who intended to hold meetings in a Gospel tent. My faith was greatly increased, my strength renewed, my vision broadened by his boldness to go forward by faith and for God’s glory. My mind oft returned to the inspiration of that moment, and I kept pressing on.
His smile always brightened my day. My heart grieves for the loss of him. For those who loved him best now have to live in a world without his presence.He will be greatly missed.
Thinking of the family and praying for Gods grace during this time, memories will always be there and is sweet to have them. He has been made whole.
Praying for God’s peace & comfort during this time.