Montana News

Services held in Missoula to remember four-year-old boy who died of cancer

Posted: Nov 19, 2012 5:02 PM by Jill Valley - MTN News
Updated: Nov 19, 2012 5:07 PM

MISSOULA - Family and friends gathered Monday for the funeral of Cash Hyde, the four-year-old Missoula boy who died of cancer last week.

"One Love One Heart," described as a celebration of hope, was held to honor "Cashy," who beat brain cancer, twice, until last Wednesday night.

Fr. Rich Perry of St. Francis Xavier Church asked during the service, "How many four-year-olds do you know who have had an influence on so many people in such a short time? Isn't there something that someone wrote about, ‘and a child shall lead them?' Cashy seemed to be that."

Although hearts were heavy, Fr. Perry reminded the 300 people inside the church that Cash would want them to sing loudly, and smile to rejoice.

Cash's family read scripture, trying hard to be brave and holding hands and praying.

Cash's father Mike spoke of forgiveness, and of love.

"Cashy taught me that we are all ministers of God. We've all done good, we've all done bad, and we can all do better. Cashy has given us all the opportunity to unite with the same common goal - helping children fight cancer," he said.

Cash was lovingly carried down the stairs of the church to a waiting police escort, for one last trip around Missoula before his journey ended.

"As it was in the beginning, it shall be in the end. One love, one heart. I love you Cashy," Mike concluded.