What a blessed day it was. There were so many people around us to share love, sorrow, joy, memories, support, and friendship. It truly was a celebration – of Mom’s life, her love, her faith – – and those who had that in common with us. I was amazed at the number of people who came – family, friends, co-workers, church friends, neighbors. The funeral director even said that this was the biggest attendance they have had in over a year and a half. And almost 50 people stayed for the service, in addition to the live stream.
The florist did a great job to incorporate some fall colors into the spray of flowers. She loved fall best of all, and she would love the beautiful roses. Since there will be no burial for a week, once the day was over we pulled the flowers out and made several bouquets to take home and enjoy.
Kelly’s in-laws sent a beautiful woven blanket in deep colors that were my absolute favorites, with a scripture verse at the bottom. I was very touched by that. We also hung Kelly’s wind chimes beside the casket and several times throughout the afternoon people would go by and make them chime. The funeral home gave Kathy and I each a candle with Mom’s favorite verse. Precious remembrances.
Everyone loved the pictures, and enjoyed seeing the long, beautiful life that Mom shared with all of us. There was lots of laughing and remembrances, and it truly was a cause for rejoicing, thinking about her life and those she has touched. Byron had the message and commitment, and Paul did the prayers and said a few words of encouragement and comfort. Byron did a great job, sharing stories and describing the life and faith that Mom lived every day.
Several people shared comments, but I knew I could not do that. It was touching to hear how Mom brought John’s family closer together, and how truly devoted they were to her. They loved her as we did. I’m so glad we are drawing together as a family now.
My friend Dianne (and her husband Jim) from church, plus Mary and Teresa, handled all the preparations and the food organization for the dinner at the church. I could not have gotten through the day had we been responsible for that ourselves. A huge thank you doesn’t even sound sufficient.
Thanks to all who attended; some who drove 3 hours, some 1 1/2, some 1 – some even further. And several local ones who struggled to get just a few miles. It was a wonderful tribute. Each person, each kind word, each hug and smile and encouragement, will stay in my heart for a very long time. I wish I could write to each of you, one at a time, just to say what it meant to have you there.
A bit of advice from mom’s book. October 4: Do you have a good piece of advice for me? “Watch your thoughts; they become words. Watch your words; they become actions. Watch your actions, they become habits. Watch your habits; they become character. Watch your character; it becomes your destiny.”
Tomorrow is Labor Day. I wish for you as little labor as possible! God bless —
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