We are heartbroken to inform our family and friends that our dear Tennyson passed away this past week. His life was a testimony of passion, conviction, purity, and the power of Jesus Christ. He was a selfless man who impacted our family, our community, and our world in countless ways. To have known Tennyson was an overwhelming blessing. We ask for your faithful prayers as we grieve his passing.
Thank you all so very much for your faithful support as we look to the Lord for strength in this time and encourage you to do the same.
“…those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
Isaiah 40:31
I was only aquainted with Tennyson through the ministry we were a part of for a few years but remember him as warm, sensitive and someone who would always give his full attention and listening ear. His unassuming and humble personality was endearing and refreshing. I know his love for God and people impacted many. I am so sad for your loss and pray God will comfort you throughout the days to come.
Posted by: Gretchen Lackey | October 23, 2007 at 10:13 AM
Miss you, T. Love you.
Morgan
Posted by: Morgan Stephens | October 23, 2007 at 10:21 AM
I was a teammate and roomate of Tennyson at CU. I had not spoken to Tennyson for several years but he was a person that I spoke highly about to my wife and family. Tennyson was a once in a life time type of person. He was a rare individual that was deeply religious but never judged or made others feel uncomfortable if their convictions were not as strong as his. I will always remember Tennyson for his spiritual strength and how he touched everyone he met. It saddens me that we have lost Tenny in this world. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
Posted by: Kris Soden | October 23, 2007 at 10:29 AM
He lived a better life than most of us could hope for. I always admired his conviction and passion for whatever it was he was doing, be it sports, academics, his faith, or life in general. I have so many recollections of him from High School/College that I will always fondly recall. Soden is right...he never judged and he always made you comfortable around him. He was a great person, someone that I am proud to have called a friend. Godspeed Tenn.
BHS-'93; CU-'98
Posted by: Mike Fiscus | October 23, 2007 at 10:39 AM
Of course, it is hard to know what to say. I knew Tennyson in Junior High and did not know him well after he devoted his life to his faith. That said, he was already a 'somebody’ at a young age--a boy who was never mean at a time in life when mean was often the norm. When I did run into him as an adult, he was kind, energetic and generous (literally, he bought my lunch that day).
I am so sorry for your loss....
Annie Hommel (Wiberg)
Posted by: Annie Hommel | October 23, 2007 at 12:17 PM
Tenny was one of the first people I got to know when I became involved with Student Venture as a high school student at BHS. Over time I joined a Bible study that he co-lead and grew to truly look up to and respect him. The news of his passing is saddening, and confusing. However, if there was anything he believed, it was that there is more beyond our days here. I believe in my heart of hearts that he's started his time with the Creator and will be waiting patiently for friends and family.
I will forever be grateful that I got to know Tennyson early in my life. I'll always treasure his memories and look forward to seeing him again.
Alex Fraser (BHS '97)
Posted by: Alex | October 23, 2007 at 12:33 PM
Tenny was one of the first people I got to know when I became involved with Student Venture as a high school student at BHS. Over time I joined a Bible study that he co-lead and grew to truly look up to and respect him. The news of his passing is saddening, and confusing. However, if there was anything he believed, it was that there is more beyond our days here. I believe in my heart of hearts that he's started his time with the Creator and will be waiting patiently for friends and family.
I will forever be grateful that I got to know Tennyson early in my life. I'll always treasure his memories and look forward to seeing him again.
Alex Fraser (BHS '97)
Posted by: Alex | October 23, 2007 at 12:34 PM
Tennyson's life is a lesson to us all. It is short and the days we have are meant for a purpose. He fulfulled his purpose in every day he lived, in every young person's lives he touched. He made loving God seem so cool to young adults. He made it be something to admire instead of "wierd". When my son completely tore his ACL in college football, it was his memory of Tennyson's testimony that kept him strong. He prayed through almost a year of rehab and found the strength to graduate early, but also keep playing football taking Graduate work. That was a seed that Tennyson planted. I have only met Chance, but my thoughts and prayers are with the entire McCarty family. We grieve his loss but I am so, so grateful for the time this world had the honor of his wonderful spirit! God Bless to all that loved Tennyson.
Posted by: Stacy McConner | October 23, 2007 at 12:54 PM
Tennyson was a great person. He will be truly missed. He was always smiling and upbeat when he visited the Football Office. May God bless his wonderful Family. Our prayers and thoughts are with his Family.
Jean and Loren Onaga
Posted by: Jean Onaga | October 23, 2007 at 12:54 PM
T-Rock was one of the best friends I have ever had. He was the best man in my wedding and will forever be an inspiration to me. He was more outgoing, loving, and fun than most people could ever dream of being. I am a better person for knowing him -- Love and miss you T.
josh
Posted by: josh norrell | October 23, 2007 at 02:53 PM
I'm deeply sorry for your loss - Andy Roller
Posted by: Andy Roller | October 23, 2007 at 03:04 PM
Have seen Tenny only once in the last decade but have vivid memories ranging back to being six-year-olds at the summer program at Flatirons elementary...too long ago. Constantly a good person from kid to man. Faith was an esential element in his life and will be in his new life. My condolences to the family.
Posted by: Rob Woodruff | October 23, 2007 at 03:38 PM
I did not know Tennyson personally, but I am acquainted with Eric through my friendship with his former Boulder High teammate Dave Viola (who also sends his regards), and through my association with the University.
I saw Tennyson play for CU and always admired his play. I also loved his name, as Alfred Lord Tennyson is my favorite poet.
My thoughts are with each of you at this awful, incomprehensible time. I offer you the words of the poet who is your son's namesake, and my own prayers as well.
-- Bronson R. Hilliard
Of those that, eye to eye, shall look
On knowledge; under whose command
Is Earth and Earth’s, and in their hand
Is Nature like an open book;
No longer half-akin to brute,
For all we thought and loved and did,
And hoped, and suffer’d, is but seed
Of what in them is flower and fruit;
Whereof the man, that with me trod
This planet, was a noble type
Appearing ere the times were ripe,
That friend of mine who lives in God,
That God, which ever lives and loves,
One God, one law, one element,
And one far-off divine event,
To which the whole creation moves.
Posted by: Bronson R. Hilliard | October 23, 2007 at 03:40 PM
Our prayers and love are sent for the entire McCarty clan... we ache for your loss and are comforted to await a future reunion with you, Tennyson, and our creator in a few years. What a blessing that Tennyson has created SO many great memories and has deeply touched so many lives! What an inspiration - his passion, his love, his impact. Big hugs, tears, and much, much love. The Farrell Family
The Holy Spirit is right alongside helping us along. If we don't know how or what to pray, it doesn't matter. He does our praying in and for us, making prayer out of our wordless sighs, our aching groans. He knows us far better than we know ourselves and pleads before God on our behalf in harmony with God's will. And we know that all things work together and are fitting into a plan for good for those who love God and are called according to design and purpose. Romans 8:26-28
Posted by: Sherrie Farrell | October 23, 2007 at 04:02 PM
Our prayers and love are sent for the entire McCarty clan... we ache for your loss and are comforted to await a future reunion with you, Tennyson, and our creator in a few years. What a blessing that Tennyson has created SO many great memories and has deeply touched so many lives! What an inspiration - his passion, his love, his impact. Big hugs, tears, and much, much love. The Farrell Family
The Holy Spirit is right alongside helping us along. If we don't know how or what to pray, it doesn't matter. He does our praying in and for us, making prayer out of our wordless sighs, our aching groans. He knows us far better than we know ourselves and pleads before God on our behalf in harmony with God's will. And we know that all things work together and are fitting into a plan for good for those who love God and are called according to design and purpose. Romans 8:26-28
Posted by: Sherrie Farrell | October 23, 2007 at 04:04 PM
I just want to say that Tennyson was like my BIG BROTHER everytime he came in town he's always stay with us. He's known us and my dad for a LONG time. He was such an amazing man of God and he did many great things for God and for other people. All he did was think about others and never himself. I miss him very much but will always remember him and all the memories we had together and ill never forget his laugh. It was sooo funny. well i know he's in heaven and i cant wait to see him one day!
Posted by: Abby Powell | October 23, 2007 at 04:20 PM
My heart aches beyond description. I know he is at peace with his Heavenly Father soaking up the boundless love of his creator. Tenny you showed love, faith and grace like no-one I have ever met. Your yoddles, terms of endearment,sweet quirks, and faith captivated my heart. I was honored to be apart of your life. My prayers are with the McCarty's. Rest Sweets, rest....your with ABBA!
~heather
Posted by: Heather | October 23, 2007 at 05:00 PM
My heart aches beyond description. I know he is at peace with his Heavenly Father soaking up the boundless love of his creator. Tenny you showed love, faith and grace like no-one I have ever met. Your yoddles, terms of endearment,sweet quirks, and faith captivated my heart. I was honored to be apart of your life. My prayers are with the McCarty's. Rest Sweets, rest....your with ABBA!
~heather
Posted by: Heather | October 23, 2007 at 05:01 PM
My brother and I went to Baseline Jr. High, Boulder High and then CU with Tennyson. As my brother said, "He was always the glue that held everyone together." He was friends with everyone in every social circle. In college my lacrosse team competed for field time with Spring Football twice a week. Before a fight erupted between the players and my coach and "Doc" he always reminded his teammates to be respectful of our field time even if we were just a club sport. He had to do this several times, but never got sick of helping us out. And he did it all with class and a warm smile. He was always gentle, caring and sweet. It deeply saddens me that the world lost such a wonderful human being.
Jennie and Eric Bailey (BHS ’94 and ’93 respectively)
Posted by: Jennie Bailey | October 23, 2007 at 05:07 PM
You were an incredible person and friend Tennyson. I will never forget you!
love you brother,
Ginessa
Posted by: Ginessa | October 23, 2007 at 05:28 PM
I haven't seen Tenny since his days at CU, but as a kid who grew up in the Dal Ward Center, many of my favorite memories, Tenny is a part of. He was one of the guys that actually took the time to talk to a young kid in the training room and really get to know you, and that was truly a testiment to his character. He would come and grab me from training table and take me to FCA and events like that, and truly had a great impact on my brothers and I.
Our entire family's prayers go out to the McCartys. God Bless.
Posted by: Clark Burton | October 23, 2007 at 05:31 PM
I met Tennyson a little over a month ago, standing by on a flight to Chicago en route to Cleveland, last min I was ushered onto the plane seated right next to Tennyson. He had a Bible out and other literature; I couldn't help but start up a conversation on theology. Long story short, our discussion provoked a bit more thoughtful contemplation than I had been planning for that evening. We spoke of many things and since I reside in Denver on most weekends, he encouraged me to visit Living Faith that next weekend, Oct 7th. When I got home our talks inspired me to write a letter, which I rarely do ...but after reading the blogs thus far, the words I wrote to Tennyson ring true, he was an open book to those who would listen and in turn had a sincere listening heart… even if your had just met him.
I share this letter with you, because when I came to visit the church on Oct 7th, he encouraged and thanked me for writing …and couldn’t stop introducing me to everyone in the church, as well as at lunch. I could easily see how much he gave of himself to others…he couldn’t help but give and trust God to do the rest. This was my reaction after the flight from Denver to Chicago:
“...hope you don’t mind me sending a letter, one of the magazines you gave me had your address and there is still something about pen & ink that email can never replace ...even for such a computer geek as I; perhaps a bit more thoughtful contemplation and it’s been a while since I was inspired to write a letter.
Tennyson, I’m pleasantly amazed where I found myself seated and would have to concur with you that there can even be purpose in last minute standby seating arrangements. I was a little taken back by your honest passion for God and clear insight into the heart of man. Both are rare to find in one person. In retrospect, even I was surprised with the ease of our open conversation, for my part. You speak with such natural authority, I’m sure most can’t help but listen.
I believe several events over the past few months were a precursor in our conversation, preparing my heart to listen and be open to your words. It was like a mirror, talking to myself 10 years ago. You really meet people where they are at ...in this life, making one feel safe in expressing their opinions, philosophy of life and God or lack thereof, without judgment or dogmatism. It was refreshing to discuss without the underlying defensiveness that can cause such discussion to get heated and go array. It left me wanting with so many valid questions/ideas/perceptions yet to discuss, to bounce off your fervent mind for God. Most importantly, at least for me, I’m thankful for your heart, the passion for what you believe.
It is a bit ironic, that after so many years of losing myself in the design of my own labyrinth, God still seeks me out. I should probably not be so surprised, but I am. We do fear what is hidden, what is out of our reach/control, seeking to dissolve in our own mind numbing chaos, too busy to discern or too contemplative of ‘me’ where there is no room for God but myself. There is the part of me that wonders ‘why’ I’m telling you all of this, and my only response is that I think you understand my questioning and a thankfulness for your interest/concern for my spiritual welfare. I simply enjoyed our conversation and your openness as well.
From our discussion, you’ve inspired my mind to begin exploring more closely the roots of my fear. If I even attempted to document my thought on the matter, a dissertation might ensue. But in short, it’s clear that there is nothing that is safe, secure, or reliable enough to counter balance our fears except the veracity of God’s love for his creation ...that’s quite a concept to ponder. It’s true; I understand with my mind that if I allow Him to mollify my fears, empting myself and open my heart to be enraptured by His spirit, the peace would be un-surpassing. Yet my heart still needs to trust ....entrust a God who can harden hearts as well as open them, with mine? Yes, I still struggle over that theological concept.
Thus fear, the ability to trust, still exists and affects even those of us who seek to conquer it daily. However, I am still in awe of how God works through you with gentle strength. You embody genuine concern for humanity and you’ve been given rare gifts to encourage and challenge the hearts of men to consider a creator who can replace their fear with love by very creative/intelligent means. It’s very cool!
I know you hardly know me, however, if God is the God He says He is, and if I in turn could encourage you, I’d say to continue refining your heart’s desire to pursue living without fear. To ask Him to make your fear clearly visible, extinguish the deception it offers and replace it with the passion He’s created within you for His peace, understanding and love. I know His will to bless you in all things preside over your fear and that His grace will be ever present for those you minister to.
Again, grateful to have met you and for both your encouragement & prayer ....even on a plane. As you could clearly see, I am honestly fearful of my heart truly becoming sensitive to the things of God again and what that will change in my life ...even though I know I’m just spinning my wheel’s without Him; giving up that control and trusting something outside myself is currently my greatest struggle per our discussion. Your prayers are always welcome.
A sincere thanks for your listening heart and I look forward to a day that we might speak again.
Mollybeth”
..And what is truly wonderful is that I know someday we will speak again …thank you Tennyson.
My prayers are with his family & friends and the loss at this time.
Posted by: Mollybeth Lombard | October 23, 2007 at 05:39 PM
I am truly sorry for your terrible loss McCarty's. I regret having never come to know Tennyson as much as I could have. I wish I could of been a real friend of his. Your family will be in my prayers.
Posted by: Jerry Wisne | October 23, 2007 at 05:53 PM
Last February at a national conference in South Carolina for Campus Crusade, two young men came and performed an incredible act using illusions and very effectively weaving in the hope of life in Jesus Christ. I especially couldn't take my eyes off one of the men. Aside from being warm, winsome and dynamic, not to mention being able to pull a piece of string out of his stomach, he looked so familiar to me. After hearing he was from my hometown, Boulder, something clicked and I later approached him and said, "You must be a McCarty." Having known both April and Eric through training table at CU and through the years witnessing the bright smile and heart of Mrs. McCarty around the CU campus, it was not a surprise to me to find that this was Tennyson McCarty. Tennyson remembered my husband, Bret, as we had all volunteered for Student Venture together when Tennyson was playing for CU. Bret was thrilled to begin making plans with Tennyson to visit us in the Boston area this winter so that Tennyson could use his gifts to bring the hope of Jesus Christ to students in the northeast.
I know that God is good and that He has more information than I do. But, I sure wish Tennyson could stay here longer and share his McCarty smile and love for people in a dark world. We grieve for your inexpressible loss as parents and family, and will continue to faithfully ask God to be present with you in tangible ways. To Eric and April who I've known - I am so very sorry for this great sorrow.
Posted by: Corri Charlton Ogburn | October 23, 2007 at 06:01 PM
My heart and prayers are with the McCartys. You fought a good fight, Tennyson, and were an example to us all that love never fails.
We look forward to joining you in the eternal life with Jesus you shared so freely and passionately with others. I understand now why people say someone's spirit will live on through us. See you soon, Tennyson...
Posted by: Carla Sherman | October 23, 2007 at 06:13 PM