Don't say that I give up, just say I gave in:
Don't say I lost the battle, for it was God's war to lose or win.
Please don't say how good I was, but that I did my best.
Just say I tried to do what's right, to give the most I could, not less.
Please don't give flowers, or talk in real hushed tones.
Don't be concerned about me now, I'm with God. I've made it home.
Don't talk about what could have been, it's over and it's done.
Just see to all my family's need, especially the litter ones.
Please don't give me wings or halos, that's for God to do.
I want no more than I deserve, no extras, just my due.
When you draw a picture of me, don't draw me as a Saint.
I've dones some good, I've done some wrong, so use all your paint.
Not just bright and light tones, use some gray and dark.
In fact, don't put me down on canvas, just paint me inside your heart.
Don't just remember the good times, but remember also the bad.
For life is full of many things, some happy and some sad.
But if you must do something, then I have one last request.
Forgive me for the wrong I've done, and with the love that's left.
Thank God for my soul's resting, Thank God for I've been blessed.
Thank God for all who loved me, Praise God who loved me best.

RIP Otis Charles Jackson