Goss Ray Nix was my grandfather, but more than that he was a man who walked humbly before his God.  Goss was missional before missional was cool, illustrating the love of Christ in simple acts of kindness and grace everyday in the context in which he lived.  In fact, I can not think of a day I spent with Goss that did not include an act of grace- whether it was giving candy to a child whose family couldn’t afford food, much less the simple pleasure of candy, or the infectious smile he shared with thousands working the front window of the Canton Post Office.

I called him Goss. Most believed that name was just another title for grandpa, but no, he was more than a grandpa. He was often my rock as a child going through the tragedy of divorce. A constant model of what it means to be a man, to be kind, to be strong through humility, to never overlook the least of these and to love deeply and live simply.  Today, June 7, 2010 Goss would have been 82 years old. I miss him, wish he could have loved my children as he loved me, but it is my honor to name my son, Lord willing due in October, after Goss. Judson Goss Nix, you have much to live up to son. I’ve been praying for you and I look forward to your arrival and to sharing with you the story and reason behind your name.

UPDATE: Goss once starred in a local video that went VHS viral in the 90′s.  Directed and produced by Brad Nix, my brother, Goss is the original EGG MAN.  I was included in the supporting cast which included some great friends: Matt and Casey Gramling, and Josh Brackett.  In the video you get a glimpse into this special man and his playful spirit. He grew physically old, but he never forgot how to play.