Celebrating Deora Bodley's Life
 

Light a Candle for Deora
"If I would just live for the moment, and make every moment count, maybe the future would work out. Maybe that moment would be a doorway to the future."
-- Deora
(from a journal entry)
 
Steps to Peace
Dedicated to the Sharing of Peace
Derrill Bodley
September 11, 2001
Derrill Bodley, Piano Rob Knable, Saxophone

Derrill, only my heart goes out to you and your family since no words of mine could possibly be of much comfort. Just know that I remember our time together on the Friends of Chamber Music Board of Directors, and that my thoughts and sympathy are with you and yours at this sad time.

Vince Perrin

I loved your little girl, Derrill, and my heart goes out to you. Since I cannot find words right now, this page is what I can do, I hope the messages will comfort you. Deora was a special, spunky little girl and grew into a lovely young woman. Her light will remain in this world.

Love, Sue

Deora and I were in Compukids together. She had the part I wanted, but I couldn't dislike her because she was always the sweetest, kindest person. It's been a long time since I've seen Deora, but I will surely remember her spirit and her smile. Deora, I hope we will make you proud down here. We're going to do our best to prove you were a martyr for our freedom.

Love, Tiffany Helland
New York

God bless you Deora, and God bless you Derrill. My heart goes out to you at your loss. The world will be less because of your and our loss. I send you all my love and embrace you warmly.

George Buckbee
Finland

Derrill,

I don't know how to express my sadness about your daughter. Please accept my deepest sympathy. My thoughts are with you and all of your family.

Jamie Eskridge
Anchorage

Derrill, I can't imagine the loss you are feeling right now. May God's love bring peace to you and your family through these hard times. May Deora's memory and dreams live on through her friends and family.

Mark Ziemann

Derrill,

My heart goes out to you in this awful time.

Your music for Deora is beautiful. Sincerely,

Matt Castle
New York

 

Derrill, My love and deepest sympathy in your loss. I remember well Deora's solo and how it brought down the house in every show. You were a loving and responsible father. May God give you courage and comfort.

Fay Haisley
Australia

Bill Cushnie
Virginia

Doug and Cindy Matheson

Our prayers are with Deora's family. Words cannot express our sympathy.

Matt and Sue Russell
Redding

Jennifer and Nick Jacobs

Fairbanks

 

Our prayers are with all of Deora's family, friends, colleagues, and especially the young students with whom she worked.

Bob Oprandy and Pat Tirone

I believe your daughter is soaring with the angels now. I hope that thought will bring you comfort in this sad time. My thoughts and deepest sympathy are with you, Derrill, and your family.

Maggie Early
San Francisco

Our hearts and thoughts and prayers are with you in these difficult days in the loss of your only daughter, Deora. May the Lord give you comfort and peace at this time,

Carole and Phil Gilbertson

Derrill,

My deepest sympathy to you-- her father-- and Deora's other relatives and friends. May God be with you now and forever.

Love, Rachelle

I remember when you wrote this song for Deora. She was a sweet little girl with a lovely little voice and her solo was always a high point in the show. I'm quite certain Deora knew the depth of your love for her, Derrill. May you find comfort in knowing that your many friends and all those whose lives were touched by Deora are with you in your sorrow.

Helen Kastner

You are in our thoughts and prayers at this tragic time for our nation and for your family. We send our sincere sympathies. We have fond memories of your mom and dad and are so glad that they were a part of our lives. Your family is one of integrity and commitment to one another and our community. Thinking of music, especially choral and piano music, always brings thoughts of Bea and Russ to mind. Deora and they will not be forgotten. Take care. Ann and Tim Quinn.

Dear Derrill, How can one find words of comfort adequate to deal with the sorrow you must be feeling at this time? We are saddened beyond expression by what has happened to Deora. Please know that our hearts and thoughts are with you in this terrible loss. May you have some comfort from the love and prayers of all of your friends and colleagues in the days to come.

Frank and Lynelle Wiens

I feel sorry for what has happened to your daughter. That isn't supposed to happen to Dad's, children are supposed to die of old age. But I believe no matter how old you are, when you die you go to heaven. Now your little girl is watching you and loving you from a place far above the stars. Now she is in your sky. I didn't know your little girl but my Gramma Sue did and I am seven years old and I am so sad.

Thalia
Fairbanks

Dear Derrill, Although we never met and knew Deora, we know how very special she was to you, her father, and how much joy and love she brought to you, to her family, and to your many friends and colleagues here in the School of Education. She, like you, touched the lives of so many. The wonderful memories that others have of Deora and the distinctive qualities of joy and love and peace and caring that made her the person she was did not die in Pennsylvania. Her unique expression of these spiritual qualities is truly eternal and will forever influence those who knew her.

Beth and Jack Nagle

Dear Dr. Bodley, I am truly sorry for such a tremendous loss. I never knew your daughter, but I knew you. I am sure your daughter was a wonderful, lovely and caring person, just like her father. My heart goes out to you and your family in the wake of such a tragic and unexplainable act. You are in my prayers and I hope and know that Deora's memories will never burn out for they will always be alive and burning in yours and the hearts of everyone who knew and loved her. I am so sorry for your loss. Thinking of You,

Kara Gormsen

My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. May you find peace in the Lord and in those you have gathered around you.

Eric Waldon, Stockton, CA

 

Derrill, I am very sorry for your loss. I will keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.

Melanie Moschella

To Deora's Family,My prayers and love go out to you during this incredibly sad time.

Sharon Stock
Marketing & University Relations

To Derrill, I have been thinking about you since I read about Deora in the paper this week. I am deeply saddened for you, Derrill, and my thoughts and prayers are with you. Take care

Kathleen Sadao

Deora and I met in the summer of 1984. We formed a bond of friendship that has withstood the last seventeen years and a bond of sisterhood that I will carry with me forever. Derrill, thank you for introducing your beautiful daughter to me on my front porch that day. Deora, I love you. Heather England

To Derrill and your family:With deepest sympathy in the loss of your daughter. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Vivian Snyder

Words are so inadequate to express my sorrow at your - and our - profound loss. My heart and soul go out to you and your family. My own three young children - even though they don't know you, and didn't know Deora - have followed your story and requested that I tell you how sorry they are.

In Love & Peace, Linda Webster

Derrill, from brother to brother, may your music and your muse be the path toward light and eternal love. Don't ever stop sharing. You are forever in my heart. Tom

To Deora and to Deora's father, Derrill, We cannot come up with the words to express our anguish of knowing of Deora's trapic loss, but John Donne wrote a famous sonnet that we thought of to say to you and to Deora's spirit:

Death, be not proud, though some have called thee
mighty and dreadful, for thou art not so;
For those whom thou think'st thou dost overthrow
Die not, poor Death, nor yet canst thou kill me.
From rest and sleep, which but thy pictures be,
Much pleasure; then from thee much more must flow,
And soonest our best men with thee do go,
Rest of their bones, and soul's delivery.
Thou art slave to fate, chance, kings, and desperate men.
And dost with poison, war, and sickness dwell,
And poppy or charms can make us sleep as well,
And better than they stroke; why swell'st thou then?
One short sleep past, we wake eternally
And death shall be no more; Death, thou shalt die.

Please know that we are with you, and we believe in the goodness in people, the goodness that Deora exemplified.Love, Marilyn Draheim and Kenneth Day

I have no words other than my prayers are with you and your family. I did not know your daughter, but you worked with my mother, Kathleen Cooper. I just wanted to tell you you're in my prayers.

Sincerely,
Melanie Rogers

Dear Derrill:

My prayers and thoughts are with you at this extremely difficult time in your life.

Sincerely Your Colleague, Harriett Arnold

Derrill, My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time of deep sorrow. Although I never had the pleasure of meeting Deora, I understand that she was a lovely young woman inside and out! With sincere sympathy,
Jean Gonsier-Gerdin

Derrill - We cannot possibly know how you feel, but our hearts break for you.

Jan Klevan, Aaron and Jessica Neely.

Derrill, Debbie, Nancy, Mark and Muriel, Deora and Heather spent every summer together for twelve years, and as often as they could after that. The joy and love that they shared will never be broken. Alan and I are so sorry and heartbroken over the loss of Deora that we can only weep with you. We loved her very much, and along with Heather and Patrick we will keep her memory alive. Love, Dianne England We never know when a hero comes to us. Certainly Deora was a hero as were her fellow passengers in Pennsylvania. We are grateful to her and her companions for giving their lives to protect others. Her memories will last, and, we hope, will give you comfort. Our church prayed for you Derrill, Nancy, and Doera's memory on Sunday. We love you. Lois and Red

Dear Derrill:

We can not say enough in mere words to express our heartfelt sympathy to you over the loss you suffer. Your sweet Deora is in a better place and her memory will live with us all forever. Deora:

Deora your father loved you dear,
and with him now we shed a tear.
Your voice your life a memory now,
With him forever stay. Until that time he stands with you
to run and sing and play.
Afford us not time to forget, what you have meant to him.
The father here who loves you so,
Will see you once again.

God Bless
Ed & Carol Martin

Dear Derrill and Family,

We only knew Deora briefly for one short summer many years ago. She is one of those shining spirits who is hard to forget. Our hearts go out to you in this terrible time for our country and even more horrible period for you and your family. It is hard for us to imagine and so we can only pray for God's overwhelming peace for you. It's always the good who seem to die young. She was one of the best, her final earthly moments spent saving the countless lives of others wherever that plane was headed. All our love and prayers, Greg and Peg Helland

Although we don't know you, we have 2 daughters, 1 is 6 years old going on 7 and the other is 22 months going on 23 months. Coming from a war torn country, Vietnam, we could somehow understand your loss.

The words of comfort that we could say are "we are deeply sorry for the loss of your daughter. If there is anything we can do, please do not hesitate to let us know." All we could say right now is that life MUST go on and we MUST lift our heads high - so high that we will see the "Ceiling - Sky" and move forward to show those who did us wrong that we will NOT lose and will NOT bow to them and they cannot take America's spirit and pride from the American people.

Lord, may Deora's soul rest in peace. Lord, please bless her soul and her family in this time of hurt. Our prayers are with Deora and her family. Our prayers are also with ALL the victims and their families. Lord, please also bless America and ALL the American people, especially all those who You have called to return Home into your loving arms. In the name of Jesus, we pray.Amen.

With Deepest Sympathy, The Nguyen family Steven, Julie, Stephanie & Samantha Nguyen
(Ed & Carol Martin's adopted son)

We didn't know Deora or the thousands of others who gave their lives on Sept. 11th, but we grieve with all of the loved ones and with our Country. May God truly bless America and you, Derrill, in this time of grief. Sincerely, Ginny Dear Derrill, Such sadness is an empty place no words can fill. But your compassion and devotion to peace and social justice light up even the darkest corners of that place and make your daughter's life and death heroic in the most robust sense. Take care, and may peace be with you. Beth Forrester

We did not know Deora but our prayers are with you. May God bless your family.

JEDABURN@aol.com

I am praying for you. Kyle Russell

Derrill, I, as most people, could never imagine the "empty void in your heart" experience parents go through when their child is suddenly taken away before them. I admire your creativity by composing a song to honor your daughter. Our thoughts and prayers to you and your family. Rusty Maghanoy Please accept my sincere thoughts of your daughter. As a father of a single daughter, I feel your tremendous pain. From what I read, she must have been, and still is, a wonderful person. Take care, God speed.
D. Tedla
As others have, I also have watched the unfolding story of the plane which your daughter was on. It is my opinion that many of the passengers on that plane were courageous souls who deterred the plane's final destination at the cost of their lives. Your daughter undoubtedly was one of those brave souls who endured death so that others would not have to suffer. May God comfort you and bless you and your family. Wendy Slobodnik

My thoughts are with you.
Linda-Sacramento City College

 

My heart goes out to you. Steven Dorian (fomer SCC music student)

 

Professor Bodley, I want to express my deepest sympathy for the loss of your beautiful daughter, Deora. I cannot imagine how hard this must be for you. Shevawn Beacham Mr. Bodley My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I pray that you find comfort in God, for he provides comfort in the toughest and most difficult situations. Cry out to him and he will comfort you and your family throughout your time of need. His loving and protective arms are around your precious daughter Deora. May she rest in peace. God Bless You! Sincerely, Damieka Hoze Derrill, As a colleague from across campus with a young daughter of my own, I feel compelled to express my unspeakable sympathy for your loss. A life, however short, spent in the service of peace and understanding adds lasting meaning and value to the world. Mike Richardson SCC Physics Through your musical composition I have heard your love for Deora and the unimaginable pain of losing her. As a member of society we mourn with you at the loss of a gentle peace keeper. L'Chiam Cathy Drake

Dr.Bodley - My deepest regrets go out to you and your family. Words are not enough to express the thoughts and feelings on this horrific event. Even though I did not know of your daughter - a few friends of mine who also are juniors at Santa Clara knew her and had nothing but wonderful thoughts on her upbeat spirit. You are dealing with this so well and I am proud to have you as a teacher because I know you will install in us what you installed in your daughter; therefore, allowing us to have a little peice in her in us. Thoughts and prayers are with you and your family - espcially Deora. Sincerly, Katie ( SCC student )

My condolences and sympathies go out to Deora, yourself, and your family. Please do know that in those final moments in the Flight, God was definitely with Deora by her side to comfort her and protect her with his unconditional love. My thoughts and prayers will be with you. Stephen Huynh Tran

 

I am so sorry for your loss. I am thinking and praying of you and your family in this sad time. Love, Kerri Butler SCU Alumni

Mr. Bodley, My name is Meagan Jones and I was a student at La Jolla Country Day as well as I am a student currently at Santa Clara University. Deora was such an amazing person, since the day I first met her sometime in middle school to the last day I saw her during her freshman year. I went abroad for the whole year last year and one comfort I had in returning to Santa Clara was to see Deora again. Unfortunately, that day did not come. I just want to offer my condolences and let you know that I know your daughter was beautiful, inside and out, and her life is one to definately celebrate. Sincerely, Meagan I took my freshman daughter to SCU on Sept. 14 and saw the memorial for your beautiful daughter. I held my own daughter tightly and wished I could have held Deora too. This is not supposed to happen to our beloved children. My heart goes out to you at this tragic time. If we have all learned to love and cherish our children as a result of Deora's untimely passing, then she did not die in vain. May you find peace and solace in knowing the lives she has touched. Barbara
I was Deora's Resident Assistant last year on Dunne 4. The school called me the following day of the accident, and the first thing that went through my mind was that we really had lost someone who was a true spirit, one of the more sincere people I've ever had the opportunity to meet. Words are hard....how can you describe a person who never failed to think of others, never failed to give you a smile even during the most stressful of times, and never failed to provide a sincere, genuine response to whatever you shared with her. I would say that Deora would have "grown up" to be a wonderful human being, but the thing was is that she was already there. So many students you meet in college are still developping into a person, growing into being considerate and mature adults. The condolence in all of this, I believe, is that Deora had already left her mark on so many people. She certainly left one on me. My best regards, Melissa Peterson

Here are just a few Bible verses the Lord has given us to turn to in times of need. May you have some comfort in reading and knowing if you call on the name of the Lord he will save and comfort you! His Promises "For I know the plans I have for you, says the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11 "For He Himself has said,"i will never leave you or forsake you." So we may boldly say "The Lord is my helper; I will not fear. what can man do to me?" Hebrews 13:5-6 He lifted me out of the pit of despair, out of the mud and the mire. He set my feet on solid ground and steadied me as I walked along. Psalm 40:2 God bless you and comfort you T. Soriano ~ Hawaii

 

 

Our heartfelt sympathy goes to you and your family. Please know that their are prayers being prayed for you by us in lower Alabama. Romans 5:3-7 "Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given to us. You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. (NIV - The Holy Bible) May you have peace of mind, love in your heart and the Lord in your life. AJ in Ozark, Alabama.

My thoughts and prayers are for Deora and her dear family -- and our world. I pray for peace in her memory.

Gloria Baker, North Carolina

All I know about Deora is what I read in the press releases and in the messages from her friends. What an amazingly generous spirit! What contributions she made in such a short life! We can take comfort from the words of Rev. Billy Graham that she and the other victims/heroes of that day are now in a place that none of them would want to come back from. Deora's life was rich because of what she gave of herself. Now she is enjoying the eternal rewards of that rich life. God bless her and comfort her family and friends. Jim Thiltgen

 

You and your family are in our prayers.

Tina

 

Mr Bodley, My prayers and thoughts go out to you and your family. Love, Sara Rosario

Derrill- What a tragedy to lose your child. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during what must be a very difficult time . Your composition is a beautiful tribute to your daughter. While I have not met you, I want to thank you for the beautiful job you did arranging "You Bring Me Joy" for our wedding this past July. You are truly gifted! May the angels in heaven protect your beautiful child and bring her everlasting peace. Celia Esposito-Noy and Solomon Noy

Dear Dr Bodley:

I didn't know Deora. But it doesn't matter. True compassion for others has no boundaries. You don't have to know someone to care. Just continue to Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Proverbs 3 :5-6 You are in my prayers. Melinda Hughes

Derrill, It has been through Dianne Williams that I have learned of your tragic loss. Dianne and I work together and have become good friends. She has told me a lot about Deora, and I have visited the web site several times to get > updates. Deora sounds like a lovely person - one that will be missed by all that knew her. Even though I did not know her, I will remember her always. You and your family are in the thoughts and prayers of everyone. Trina Groening Dr. Bodley, You're an inspiration to all those around you. I truthfully never knew of your daughter until this tragedy. It's been hard to not be traumatized, but learning about you and your exceptional daughter really helped me to appreciate my friends and family. You have taught us that God springs life day after day and it's our job to cherish and love those around us. I wept for your loss and continue still to pray. You're a wonderful man and your daughter, I'm certain, is proud. Love, Marina Borroel
Dear Mr. Bodley, I just wanted to let you and your family know that your loss has laid heavy on my heart. I cannot imagine the sorrow you must be feeling. Please know that my family and I are lifting you up in prayer with all our hearts, souls, and minds. God bless you and your family. April L. O'Brien

Beautiful Deora

derrill-i'm sorry i've taken so long to light a candle for our girl. it's been too difficult for me to finalize my relationship with deora, so i never will. i love you, deora. you'll always be in my heart. velma

Dear Bodley Family, My thoughts and prayers are with you. Sincerely, Katie Hall SCU Class of '99

Dear Mr. Bodley and Family,
I don't know the exact words to say...but I do know that Deora was a wonderful human being. There isn't a day that goes by that I don't think of Deora. She has impacted my life in such a profound way that I will forever be a better person because I knew her. I am so deeply sorry for your loss. But know that you and your family will remain in my prayers. And know that Deora will live in my heart always.

Love, Megan Antoncich

Dear Mr. Bodley, Your daughter sounds to me that she has become a guardian angel to so many. Deora was doing good in the midst of evil and she touched so many peoples lives as for the thousands that were effected that day. I just wanted to thank your daughter Deora for the difference and the lives she touched in this world. I'm lighting this candle for you daughter and i keep her as well as the thousands in a prayer. Sincerely, Mark Bastawrous FDR High School, Brooklyn, NY

Mark Fever

I met deora when she was playing soccer for LCDS.. she and I became good friends in that time.. She was the most wonderful person I ever met and I will truly miss her so much... I never will forget her and will try to make her proud by helping others the way she always did.

Eric Jones

LOVE FAMILY BODLEY

God bless you Deora. My heart goes out to you at your loss. The world will be less because of your and our loss. I send you all my love and embrace you warmly.

Derrill, I can't imagine the loss you are feeling right now. May God's love bring peace to you and your family through these hard times. May Deora's memory and dreams live on through her friends and family.

Dariusz Chorak Elblag - Poland

What happened that terrible day in September will not be forgotten. I didn't know Deora, but for those who knew her, she will live on. I am so sorry for your loss. Just know that my husband, who is serving the United States Army, is doing so that we might all live in a free nation. God Bless you and God Bless America!

Gabriel Beth Enderle
Fort Hood, Texas

I was lucky enough to direct Deora , that beautiful little girl, in the production that is seen on this site. I feel I really missed something not having met Deora the beautiful young woman that she grew up to be. Derrill, my thoughts are with you . I wish you the best in your time of grief and I'd love to hear from you . Sincerely, Jeff Mooring

Deora, though I knew you only briefly during your stay on this planet in this country and in California, I feel a deep sense of loss with your passing because you were plucked from our midst without having the opportunity to say goodbye or anything else that would help us cope with our loss, and it is my hope that you are somewhere beyond pain and grief.

*Friends of Matt Castle

I CAME ACROSS THIS SITE THROUGH A FRIENDS WEBSITE. I WOULD LIKE TO LIGHT A CANDLE FOR DEORA. ALTHOUGH I DID NOT KNOW HER , I FEEL THE PAIN OF LOSS FROM THIS TRAGEDY. I LOST MY COUSIN CHRISTOPHER PICKFORD, A NYC FIREFIGHTER .
MAY GOD COMFORT YOU.

LORI MOGK

I did not know Deora personally, but after the Sept. 11 attacks I bought a remembrance bracelet engraved with "Flight 93" and Deora's name.  Her biography spoke to me.  I have a 19-month old daughter that will inherit the bracelet when she is old enough to understand what happened on Sept. 11, and I will be able to share with her the story of a young woman with a vision and a zest for life.  I have printed as much information as I can find about Deora to share with my daughter Gillian.

May God's peace comfort you.  Please know that we keep her memory alive every day in our household just by wearing the bracelet and remembering.

Cherie Rebar

 

Mr.Bodley
Your daughter was a wonderful person that had a big heart and a wonderful smile. She was always a pleasure to spend time with and someone to never forget. I really wish I could have been at her service. I was just informed of your loss three weeks ago by a friend and I cant imagine your loss. She really was someone to remember.My best to you and your family.

-Andreas Hronopoulos

Dear Derrill,
This site is a beautiful portrait of the ways in which Deora spirit has touched and moved so many people-- even those, like myself, who did not know her. I light a candle for Deora, but it is she-- dressed in her white graduation robe, smiling down at me from the picture above my desk-- who lights up the work I am doing to honor her and honor all of you who seek to heal this planet and work for Peace.
Blessings and Love,
Frances Anderson

 

 

 

Hello, I stumbled onto this site by accident. Please, if the Light a Candle for Deora is still happening, I would like my name and e-mail address attached for one. Although most likely I had never had personal contact with any of the victims from this tragedy, I was still personally affected. In less than three hours, although they seemed like a lifetime, I lost over 3,000 brothers and sisters of all shapes, creeds, ages and beliefs. My heart did, and still goes out to the close friends and family members of our innocents lost on that day. -Peace
Brandon Moore
West Palm Beach, FL

My thoughts are with you. I cannot imagine the pain of this loss. Being a Washingtonian, I believe that your daughter and those with her on Flight 93 were martyrs whose deaths may have saved the lives of thousands here--and perhaps saved our government a direct terrorist strike. But that is nothing compared to the reality of the loss you and families like yours have sufferred. God grant you peace.

Kathleen Fulton
Takoma Park, MD

Dear Derrill,
My wife and I were truly touched by your daughter's story. We can not begin to tell you how sorry we are for your loss.

My wife was pregnant at the time of the attack and living in San Diego we saw a lot of the news stories about your daughter. We decided to name our daughter Deora in honor of your daughter.

We wanted you to know that your daughter's name will be carried forth. Our daughter will grow up knowing about your daughter and we can only hope that she grows up to be as remarkable as your Deora.
Tim, Kelly, and Deora Woodward

 

It's almost been a year and the day I lost my best friend lingers like yesterday. My prayers go to her entire family...and one of the wonderful things about Deora is that her family went beyond blood relatives. Her friends, like myself, meant as much to her as her sisters. I draw strength from her still each day!Mr. Bodley - even though we only spent a few moments together, Deora always talked about all the wonderful things you two shared together. I wish you peace and comfort. My heart goes out to you.

With love,
Azadeh

 

I did not know Deora but I pray for her family and want them to know that she is a beautiful angel with God now. God bless your family.
Sheree' Taylor
Madisonville TN

Our thoughts and prayers are with your family as we remember the anniversaryof September 11th. Her memory will be included in our September 11thmemorial issue in our college newspaper at Florida State University. We knowDeora's spirit will live forever.Deepest Sympathies,

Kristen and Katherine,
FSView Newspaper

 

From across the ocean, we will never forget
from one bereaved parent to another
with love and grace
Theresa

To Derrill;

your tribute in music was the ultimate expression, beyond words, right to the heart. You know, and I know, that music speaks its' own language to each of us in a unique way, private and personal, and we as musicians say everything we need to through our music. What a beautiful gift to not only your lost daughter, but to all of us who have had this opportunity to have heard it.

Ron Caviani
Iron Mountain, MI

 

 

 

WILL & MARK CARREIRA-CONYERS
Melbourne, Australia

I saw Deora's Dad in the TV right now and I would like to contact him. Perhaps people can change the world. Its hard for one person to change things because people are shy and to much with there own life in conflict. I would like to do something for the love of the world but I need help. I would be glad if you can send me the email address of the father of Deora or something like that.
Love,
Muriel

In honor of Deora Bodley; In reading about her life and how caring and sweet that young lady was, we cannot help but conclude she must have been an angel on earth and a real joy to know personally. And although she was taken away so tragically and needlessly, those that loved her and those that knew her are hopefully comforted in the knowledge that she is now amongst the real angels in heaven, interceeding in our behalf. However, on this the one year anniversiary, our prayers go out to her family for we know that Deora is still terribly missed. May God be with you today and may He bless you in the days to come. Michael, Brandon, Matt, Andy, and Josh Porter, September 11, 2002

Dear Derrill, My name is Kimberly McHugh and I attended La Jolla Country Day with Deora. I have to say that your daughter made a huge impact on my life. Junior High wasn't exactly a time full of great memories but she made sure I laughed at least once a day. She would go out of her way to make sure I was staying positive despite the constant negativity towards me by other students. When I talk to other Country Day kids about Deora there are only positive comments. She was a friend to everyone on that campus. To this day I have yet to meet someone as caring and giving as she was. Anyone who didn't have a chance to have Deora in their life truly missed out. She is loved and she is missed....

-Kimbaa

A year has gone by. It’s been long and hard. I can still hear Deora’s voice as she called on Sept. 11th at 1:30 a.m. (Pacific Time). Her last words to me were “Sorry to wake you.” I thank God for that last call. Miss you and love you forever.


Velma

 

Her name and face will always be in my mind, but her love will always be in my heart. Delania Ciancio,23yrs old,Woodward, Ok Praying for Deora's family and friends.

JDCIANCIO

Dear family and friends of Deora,

While I am deeply moved by the tributes to each of the individuals who lost their lives a year ago today, on September 11th, none has left as indelible a mark on my being as that of Deora Bodley. I was not fortunate enough to know Deora personally, but I feel as though I did. What struck me most about Deora's story were the countless ways in which her life, and her character, seem to resemble my own. Like Deora, I was born and raised in a suburb of San Diego. As a young girl, I loved to sing, dance, and travel.

In high school, I too was active in tutoring children and promoting HIV/AIDS awareness. I am now 20 years old and a senior at Stanford University, just a twenty-minute drive from Santa Clara. This year I will be finishing my psychology major and pursuing my love of learning foreign languages, as I am sure Deora would have done. I am also sure that, had Deora and I ever met, we would have had a lot to talk about. We probably would have become great friends

.I first heard about Deora just a few days after the terrorist attacks, when I read an article about her in the San Diego Union-Tribune. Ever since, her story has impacted the way I view both my life and the world at large. She has inspired me follow in her footsteps, to truly make a difference in the lives of others. Even the accounts of how her life was tragically and prematurely taken has motivated me to stay strong in the face of danger and never forget the heroes of Flight 93, who reinforced my faith in humankind. I am very sorry about the loss of your beautiful and talented daugher, sister, and friend; and I offer my most heartfelt condolences.

Sincerely, Kimberly Rios

 

 

Hi, Excuse me for my english because i don't speak very well, my firts language is french. I'm from Belgium in Europe. It is a very small country and i don't know if you can localisate it on a map.... I live in Liege, near "Bastogne". If you ask to WW2 veterans if they know "Bastogne".... the answer will be : "Yes". My grand-mother and grand-father have suffered during World War 2 and they have been liberated by the US Army. Do you know why i'm talking about that ? Just because we will never thank you enough for that...... So many americans soldiers gave their live for us that i feel myself a little "american" in my heart. When i saw the tragedy on television last year.... i cry inside, deeply, silently.All my prayers go for parents and friends of all innocent victims. They didn't choose to die in this way. They didn't choose to end their lives this date. So many heroes, so many pain, so many tears, it is too much for Mankind.You made a very beautiful tribute to your daughter. I'm sure that she will live for a long time in your memories. To be proud of her is something that i guess in your site especially when i rode all the mails you received for Deora. I have 2 daughters of 14 months old and i know what "to love my childrens" means. You are a wonderful father.

Even in a small far country like mine i pray for you, Deora. Have a look sometimes for your parents and friends because they have pain, here on earth. But don't worry Deora, people send mails to give them some courage. I hope to see you one day.......
Lots of Love
God Bless the victims
God Bless families of the victims
God Bless all the friends of the victims
God Bless the United States of America

Didier Martin
Belgium
didier.martin@pandora.be

 

I've been searching the web, in an attempt to learn about the lives of thevictims of the Sept. 11th attacks, and came across this tribute to Deora Bodley, who lost her life at the precious age of 20, on Flight 93

.To Derrill Bodley, I cannot express enough, my deepest sympathies for your loss. Deora seemed to be such a precious child. I listened to her sing her song "Ceiling-Sky" when she was 10 years old, was more than I could bear and I just burst into tears listening to that little voice singing that beautiful song. Reading about how Deora loved children so much, and just loved life....it just does not make sense to me why she was taken away fromyou. I cannot even imagine the pain and grief that you are experiencing. I do not understand why these terrorists did what they did, but I want you to know that your entire family is in my prayers.

May our loving God give you peace and comfort in this difficult time. I will never forget yourloss. Your daughter, is an inspiration to all of us as Americans, that weshould never take life for granted. May God bless you and your family.

Sincerely
John Dukes
Hampstead, MD

i didn't know Deora. Nor do I have any idea how this past year has been for you! i had a child at the end of august last year and when all of this happened, i felt as if I brought a child into an unkind world. Then i started reading all of the memorials for people that perished on 09/11/01 and i just felt that in some way, my child was here to carry on and shine for those loved ones lost. My child is more than just an angel, I believe that he carries the light and love that people like Deora can no longer visually portray. As Deora is in your heart forever, her spirit will be forever shining!!

Lori Fisher

Derrill
I just wanted you to know that although I did not know Deora, she has been constantly in my thoughts and prayers as has been the rest of her family. Even in death she lit up the SCU campus. I cannot imagine how it must be for your family but know that Deora will live always as long as her memory lives, which will be forever. Praying for you, Deora, the rest of her family and for peace in a volatile world.

Nicki Ford, SCU class of 2002

Mr. Bodley and family,
With deepest sympathy, I write this letter to light a candle for Deora frommy heart. I feel the pain here in NY everyday. The smile of your daughter isan image burned into my mind. And I ask, how can someone take away thatsmile? How can someone take away the life of such a beautiful person? And somany others? I shed tears for what happened here in NY and like many peoplehere, still looking for answers. Although I have never met you or yourdaughter, I know she was your angel and always will be. She's an angel withGod now and in his hands. May God bless Deora and may God bless you, Mr.Bodley ,and your family.
Steven Tang,

steven.tang@falconstor.com

 

Hello, I personally did not know Deora but I have read lots of stuff about her. including an article in our Local newspaper, her great grandmother happens to live in the same town as I do. She seemed to be a very caring and loving person. She seems very saint like and Christ like, I am sure she got her strength to love and serve people from Christ himself. Therefore, as a Roman Catholic and follower of Christ, I pray that more live by Deora's example , and ask Deora to intercede for us and pray for us to help us be peacefull, loving, caring, forgiving and Christ Like, much like we would ask the Blessed Virgin Mary and Saints to pray for us.May God bless Deora, her family, friends, and all she loved.
God's peace be with you:
Tony- Elyria, Ohio

To Deora's family

:
This is a great memorial for such a courageous woman. I never knew Deorabut, its not hard to see that she was loved very much. God bless!To Deora:Thank you for living in the moment.. Thank you for being our hero on September 11, 2001. I salute you as a citizen and as a soldier of this great country.

Sincerely,
Jeremy D. Spranger, Staff Sergeant, USAF
742 Missile Squadron/ Minot AFB, ND

 

Hello, I personally did not know Deora but I have read lots of stuff about her. including an article in our Local newspaper, her great grandmother happens to live in the same town as I do. She seemed to be a very caring and loving person. She seems very saint like and Christ like, I am sure she got her strength to love and serve people from Christ himself. Therefore, as a Roman Catholic and follower of Christ, I pray that more live by Deora's example , and ask Deora to intercede for us and pray for us to help us be peacefull, loving, caring, forgiving and Christ Like, much like we would ask the Blessed Virgin Mary and Saints to pray for us.May God bless Deora, her family, friends, and all she loved.
God's peace be with you:
Tony- Elyria, Ohio

Dear Derrill,

I am a teacher in a school close to where Deora went to college. My wife and I went to the memorial shrine at Santa Clara University many times in the week after September 11. We stood and looked at the flowers and the candles. At first I was alternately angry and then overcome with sadness, because my own children were 20 and 23 at that time. I can't imagine losing them. I don't know how you found the strength to bear your grief. As I found out more about Deora, I learned she wanted to be a teacher. I read what the children wrote to her at the shrine and I saw the pictures they drew. The children wrote to her in the present tense and not in the past tense. I saw the Sunset Celebration rose that the gardeners from the University had brought and were soon to plant. I could see that everything about Deora Bodley is about living and being and growing. I teach everyday. From her spirit, I have given more of myself to my students. By teaching, I know this is what Deora is doing: giving everyone knowledge about life, revealing the importance of relationships, creating a love of learning, and finding out how to weave peace in a world of conflict.

With love and wishes for you to feel at peace in your heart during Christmas 2002 and forever,

Bill Barnes

 

I did not know Deora, but after watching last night's show The Flight That Fought Back, I was reminded of the heroism of each and every person that lost their lives on that fateful day. May God bless the Bodley family, and may they find peace and happiness. Deora is not gone...she lives on in the mind, the heart, and the soul. Her heroism will never be forgotten. God bless...
-Ryan Swanno
San Francisco, California
9.12.05

I would just like to pass this verse on to you. It was read at my Momsfuneral in July and was so touching I thought it appropriate for Deora:

When tomorrow starts without me,And I'm not there to see, If the sun should rise and find your eyes All filled with tears for me; I wish so much you wouldn't cry. The way you did today, While thinking of the many things,We didn't get to say. I know how much you love me, As much as I love you, And each time that you think of me, I know you'll miss me too; But when tomorrow starts without me, Please try to understand, That an angel came and called my name, And took me by the hand, And said my place was ready, In heaven far above, And that I'd have to leave behind All those I dearly love. But as I turned to walk away, A tear fell from my eye For all my life, I'd always thought, I didn't want to die. I had so much to live for, So much left yet to do, It seemed almost impossible, That I was leaving you. I thought of all the yesterdays, The good ones and the bad, I thought of all the love we shared, And all the fun we had. If I could relive yesterday, Just even for a while, I'd say good-bye and kiss you And maybe see you smile. But then I fully realized, That this could never be, For emptiness and memories, Would take the place of me. And when I thought of worldly things, I might miss come tomorrow, I thought of you, and when I did, My heart was filled with sorrow. But when I walked through heaven's gates, I felt so much at home.  When God looked down and smiled at me, From His great golden throne, He said, "This is eternity, And all I've promised you." Today your life on earth is past, But here life starts anew. I promise no tomorrow, But today will always last, And since each day's the same way There's no longing for the past. You have been so faithful,So trusting and so true. Though there were times you did some things You knew you shouldn't do. But you have been forgiven And now at last you're free. So won't you come and take my hand And share my life with me? So when tomorrow starts without me, Don't think we're far apart, For every time you think of me,I'm right here, in your heart. [author unknown]

GOD BLESS YOU DEORA
Ricko~Buffalo Mills, Pa

9/11/07

I did not know you in life Deora, but I think of you all the time. I got to know you so well watching your family at the end of the movie. Through you, I never knew I could overcome some of the insurmountable fears I have. As an aspiring pilot, I will never fly another aircraft without seeing your face in the blue sky.
A song was released recently called "Blues Never Fade Away". I dedicate that song to you, it is so fitting for what happened to you. I hope someday, when it's my turn to touch down on that great runway in the sky, I will meet you at the gate.
So long for now. I give you my promise I will always frequent your memorial. And thank you for the courage you gave to me.
Sincerely, Jim Halvorsen 

9/11/07

Seven years and never forgotten.
Jan Klevan Ruby

9/11/08

You and Derril are always in my mind, Sue

9/11/08

Deora, seven years passed already since you left us here on Earth. Seven years and I'm still touched although I never had the chance to know you. Probably you were happy to see your father coming beside you. You are my sweet princess from the next world... Love,
Remy Autran - Saint Denis, France, 11.09.2008

Although we didn't know deora or the others, we still think about Deora every year and will never forget her and the other heros of that flight.

Josephine and George Hampton

May 30, 2009

 

Today would have been Deora's 29th birthday. We will not ever forget your bravery or your sweet giving personality.

Sue

April 8, 2010

 

Just wanted to light a candle today to honor Deora's 29th birthday. Her story touched me deeply. She was a beautiful young lady. All Americans should never forget what happened on that fateful day (September 11, 2001). Happy Birthday, Deora.

Thomas Corcoran

To be remembered by those you loved is not to die.”

Deora and Derrill, you live on in the hearts and minds
of your family and friends.

Warren and Carol van Bronkhorst

 
       
 

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"PEACE FOR DEORA" was recorded at Studio C, Stockton, California, courtesy of Dr. Thomas Chen

This song has since been recorded by Dave Brubeck and is included on his latest album.

 

Updated May 2009

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