If you are reading this, I have gone to the great beyond. I was born and raised in Virginia by my parents, Hunter Melvin McCauley (Shorty) and Elfie Mae Summers McCauley. I had an older sister and great friend, Jackie Cooke, and her devoted husband, my wonderful brother-in-law, Sten. I attended McIntyre Elementary, the Miller School of Albemarle, and graduated from Albemarle High. I learned the metal and slate roofing trades, as well as chainsaw and lawnmower repair, from William E. (Bud) Sprouse, a mentor and father figure.

In 1983, I moved to Vermont as a self-employed roofer, working in tin, galvanized metal, and copper. I also did slate repair. When I wasn't roofing, I worked on post-and-beam construction, as well as trim and framing carpentry.

I lived with a blood cancer for 30 years, and for 28 of those, I was able to work full-time and play volleyball three to four times a week, sometimes more. I enjoyed riding my mountain bike, exploring the woods around my home, and going to bluegrass festivals. But my favorite pastime was playing my guitar, and I wish to be remembered as a singer-songwriter. A few of my originals have been recorded. Some are funny, some sad. Mostly, they are about people and places that mattered to me during my lifetime. A sampling can be heard on my YouTube channel.

I was blessed to have many good friends who gave me countless rides to my appointments when I could no longer drive. Others visited in person and by phone to keep me company, and wonderful neighbors checked on me and brought delicious meals. The cancer was hard on my heart, but with dedicated medical help, I did everything possible to keep going. Eventually, it got the best of me.

I am grateful to Vicki and John Tilton from San Diego for all their phone visits, and Sandy Bissell, Kathi Dunsmore, and their families for their loving friendship over the years. Without the help of my steadfast friend and neighbor, Tim Gray, I would not have been able to stay in my home until the end. This was the ultimate gift. And finally, thank you, Steve Shifflett, my lifelong friend and spiritual adviser. You were always there for me.

Peace to all. Thank you for a good life. I love the Lord and Jesus Christ.

Funeral arrangements are with Teague Funeral Home, and MEMORIAL SERVICE WILL TAKE PLACE AT 1 p.m. AT TEAGUE FUNERAL SERVICE, WEDNESDAY, JUNE 11.

Posted by Sam Clarke.