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(CNN) – A Kentucky man passed away in 2012, but before doing so, he made sure his wife always knew how much he loved her.
For more than eight years, Rich Cox has sent a floral arrangement to his wife for his birthday and Valentine’s Day, which are separated by a day.
When Tracey received the first delivery of flowers, a year after Rich died, she said she was in shock because of what her husband had arranged for her.
Rich’s first Valentine’s Day flower delivery surprised Tracey in 2013.
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“It was really emotional,” Tracey told CNN on Friday. “He was sad and happy at the same time because I knew he would always be with me.”
But flower deliveries did not cease after 2013. They continued every year, each with a new note attached to the bouquet.
This year’s delivery read: “Happy birthday and happy Valentine. With love, Rich. ”
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The messages change every time, but love remains.
“Tracey, even though you can’t see me, I’m always here. I love you. With love, Rich, ”said a 2018 note.
Tracey with Rich’s floral arrangement of 2016.
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Tracey describes her husband for 26 years as an affectionate, loving and emotional man, the kind of man who would give her flowers just because.
“Every time I receive them, it really brings me many emotions and tears of joy,” said Tracey. “It really brings back all the memories we could do together.”
Rich was 53 when he lost his battle against throat cancer. Tracey, now 63, lives in Georgetown, Kentucky.
Tracey’s daughter, Bethany, told CNN that her father told her and her three brothers about their secret plans.
“We do not know exactly how it is done, but we do know that they will not stop soon,” he said.
Bethany said she was not surprised when her father told her about her plans because that was the type of person she was.
“He is literally the model of a man that every woman wants to find,” Bethany said. “A true love story”.
Tracey says that if she could tell Rich one thing right now, she would be grateful for everything she did during her time together and what she continues to do for her.
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