When we die, do we die alone? Even when surrounded by loved ones, the dying person enters into an aloneness, a realm where the living cannot reach. But is it possible that other beings surround us as we enter and then depart the final earthly stage? In this breathtaking book, Author Mary Demmler, an Episcopal priest, allows us to hear the voice of such a being, a companion and guide during the very last stage of life in a variety of human beings undergoing the ultimate separation.

"Phe and the Work of Death" is a book like no other. In this story, you will hear Phe's voice, as you visit the dying with her, feeling the hope of the presences, and knowing their compassion and awareness of centuries-long experience with dying. In the process we witness changes even in the beings themselves. This is a comforting book, filled with love and with hope. Death, after all, is not the end.

“Phe and the Work of Death defies easy categorization or summary. One has to experience it for oneself: the gentle weaving of imagination and thoughtful characterization that leads to a new understanding of and hope for our own deaths and the deaths of those we love. I wept tears of gratitude when I read this. Just as Phe was companion to the men, women, and children in this book, she is now companion to me when life is hard or tragic. That’s how real she becomes in Mary Demmler’s hands.”
-Pat Boswell, former hospice chaplain

Mary R. H. Demmler lives with her family in Northeast Georgia on the farm that's been in her family for more than 200 years. She manages the farm while continuing to pursue her passion for writing. You can find more of her work on her website as well as can book her for speaking engagements and learn about upcoming workshops and retreats. Mary loves to cook and is developing recipes for an upcoming cookbook.