The Leader Passes

Monday night I served as the family representative at the funeral home, welcoming a number of good friends that wished to express condolences in person. This turned out to be a very comforting experience, for reasons that I have not been able to yet ascertain. During the lulls in the stream of visitors, I took the opportunity to snap pictures of the flowers that had been sent. These are scattered throughout this post.



Daddy's funeral turned out to be a beautiful affair. The clouds and showers of the previous day passed on, leaving a fresh and clean world in which we could celebrate a man that we loved.

We chose a wooden casket for his body, since he so loved to work with wood.



Pastor Rice spoke of Daddy as one who was quiet and steadfast, depending on his Hope, and trusting naught else. The central verse was 1 Thessalonians 4:13-19





Julie Mowen sang a beautiful solo, the highlight of a song service that included a number of congregational hymns as well. Rock of Ages, In the Garden and Amazing Grace, among others.



Abigail bore the proceedings stoically, but Brianna cried five or six times; whispering each time that she missed her Papa. Of course, her Daddy cried right along with her.



We carried Daddy out of the church and into the bright Colorado sun and put the coffin into the hearse. It was a short ride to the Berthoud Cemetery, where the Town Clerk had picked a site near a number of other Jones ... and also a couple Clarks! This little bit of trivia provided a touch of amusement amidst all the mourning.



And with a few brief words, the task was complete. Farewell, Father, on your journey with the Saviour. I will be seeing you.