October 27, 2025
The following prayer was written by Vickey Hickey, Residential Pastoral Associate at Catherine Dennis Keefe Queen of Clergy Residence, about her late brother, Edward F. Hickey Jr., who died at 94 on April 18, 2021. A native of Darien, he moved to St. Petersburg, Fla., after recovering from injuries in World War II. He had several businesses, including Ed’s Beach Service in Panama City. He also owned properties there and was a force in its development during the 1980s.
Prayer of a Panama City Beach Boy
By Vickey Hickey
Thank you for the breathtaking sunrise,
reflecting on the majestic gulf
as it cradles the shore.
This day will be perfect!
In Chorus, we rake the glistening sand
as though only angels dance
between the shells and ripples of the tide.
Gazing for miles in awe of the beauty
and perfection of God’s creation.
Soon the beach chairs and umbrellas
will adorn this wondrous coastline,
thanking all that partake on this day of perfection
to walk the beach and gather under the sun-kissed sky.
I have pondered over these 94 years what my first
words would be to my creator who kept me safe
and well on “His heavenly beaches.”
Will I ask him, “Why not more sunny days?”
No, I will say with an Irish smile,
“Thank you, Lord, for making me one of your
Greatest Panama City Beach Boys.”
***
Sign Up for Healing Journey Messages
Receive a daily message to your email address.