The death of Paul Coakley, a young man who died at the age of 35, was a heartbreaking experience for the family. However, it was St. Joseph’s closeness and intercessory power that enabled him to live and die as a good Christian. He lived on this earth as a good husband and a loving family head. We read about how his wife Ann talks about Paul Cockley’s memorable life …
Paul’s wife, Ann, shares their life story. Ann would constantly pray to the Blessed Mother to find her life partner. Thus, in May 2007, after many years of prayer, Ann’s prayers were answered. She met Paul. Within a few months, they decided to get married and lead a happy family life.
As part of their desire to lead a good Catholic family life, the couple interceded with Joseph, the mediator of the family, and prayed for Paul to find a job. While praying Novena to St. Joseph, the couple was immediately inspired to adopt a child into their family. Anne had three miscarriages. This inspiration was a sign that their prayers were being answered after that. So they adopted three children. Joseph’s father was a great mediator, especially as a foster father.
Paul worked very hard to support his family. Paul wanted to share Christ through life, inspiring many to live like Christ, just as Joseph gave his son Jesus to the world.
In 2014, Paul experienced chest pain. By Christmas time, doctors told him he had a lot of tumors in his lungs. They cannot be counted. Later, tumors were found in the brain as well. The result was two strokes. While caring for her husband in the hospital, she begged for prayer help to pray for him around the world. The knowledge that many people were participating in the prayer for her husband was a great strength for Ann. It was, in fact, a gift from God to her at the time.
Paul was on the verge of death. At the time of her death, Ann saw a twinkle in her husband’s eye. She realized it was a miracle. Her husband was happily returning to his heavenly Father. “Paul was running to our Lord, having experienced a good holy happy death” Â -Ann reveals about Paul’s death.
Ann firmly believes that St. Joseph had been standing with them as the guardian of their family during the difficulties. And for many, she is an inspiration today.