Ed Wynn had a long career in vaudeville, where he became famous as the inventor of the 11-foot pole—to be used by those who wouldn’t touch another with a 10-foot pole!  Perhaps you remember him as Uncle Albert in Mary Poppins.  In that film he sang “I Love to Laugh” with a fervor so contagious it caused two gleeful little children to levitate with him towards the heavens!

Ed was blessed with the ability to communicate such silly, child-like joy!

I once had a photo from the 1920s signed by Wynn which I gave to a friend.  Though it is old and tattered, Ed’s face is clear, beaming with a natural goodness untouched by the years.  It is boldly inscribed in his hand: “I enjoy all my roles, all good wishes, Ed Wynn”.

Wynn died in 1966.  One of the pallbearers, fellow comedian Red Skelton, said of Ed’s death, “It was the first time in his life he ever made anyone sad”. 

But look at this!  Wynn’s bronze grave marker reads, “Dear God, thanks…Ed Wynn.”

Remarkable, isn’t it?  Ed Wynn’s last words were an offering of thanks to God for life! It was a prayer!  Even this simple, lovable, natural man—who may not have been “religious” in any conventional sense—understood the importance of gratitude and to Whom thanks is due.

May our last words be as heartfelt and precious to God!

In everything give thanks to God, for this is the will of God” (1 Thess. 5:18).

Fr. Paul Martin
Annunciation & St. Paraskevi Greek Orthodox Church
New Buffalo, MI