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.
3 comments:
What a touching and wonderful tribute Charles, your Dad was a fine man, though I didn't know him well. He left a good legacy in you having passed on his integrity, values and talent for wood working. I am certain you and your girls and family will miss him but he did well during his tenure here - I'm sure he will find a good home in heaven with the Lord. God Bless you in your mourning, may God speed your healing. Keep close to your Mother, she will need to lean on you and Jenny in the next few months.
Love, Your Denver Mom (Jenny's Mom)
Thanks Charles for the nice tribute for Daddy. That day will certainly be one I will not quickly forget. Although one correction - Brianna did not whisper, "I miss Papa!" but said it in a loud and mournful voice that tore at the heartstrings of not a few in the gathering!! We who knew and loved Daddy echoed her sentiments in our own hearts and cried along with her!
Love to you and all your girls,
Monica
True, Brianna did express her dismay with some vigor earlier on, but the moment that broke me most terribly was indeed a whisper. A whisper deliver right in the midst of Pastor Rice's message.
Brianna's lamentation did touch a great many people. Although her own understanding of what has transpired seems to be effectively lessening the blow as time passes.
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