Uncle Jim’s funeral (part V)

The burial took place the morning before the memorial service, and we intentionally we arrived early. 

“We are the first ones here,” Lauren said. 

“I wanted to arrive first so we could put the flowers out before they came.” 

I am glad we came early, as an unsightly blue tarp covered the hole, with bricks around its corners. I removed it and replaced it with beautiful white flowers.

When the family arrived, I got the urn out. 

“Do you want me to put the urn in the hole or set it at the top of the hole?” I asked Kimberly.

“I haven’t thought about it.” 

I placed the urn in the hole and would get it out if Aunt June wanted. 

“No one is crying,” Kimberly said.

“I'm trying to be strong for y'all.” 

“I've been crying a lot.” 

It's okay for you to feel that way. You need to express your emotions.” 

Kimberly placed a gorgeous wreath made of magnolia leaves by the small hole in the ground. The service was simple—the way Uncle Jim would have wanted. His family loved to sing, so of course, we sang. Each person had the opportunity to toss dirt in the hole or use the shovel to cover the urn. His grandson helped fill the hole, too. After the service, we went into the fellowship hall, where coffee and hot chocolate were available to warm us on a cold day.

After the burial, we visited Uncle Jim's sister's old house. A ginormous magnolia tree towered in the front yard where both young and old kids climbed its branches. Since no one currently occupied the home, the owners allowed us to visit inside. Several family members shared fond childhood memories of visiting her home and climbing her tree.

The members of their church prepared a wonderful meal for the family before the memorial service. The service itself was exceptional—it celebrated Uncle Jim's life. Music filled the air, and there was aa opportunity for people to stand and share a story about him. After the funeral, the reception took place in the fellowship hall. A video displayed photos of Jim, along with a clip of him singing in a quartet.

U How can you be a servant to those in need?  U 

U  What small details can you think of to help the grieving family?  U 

  U Have you considered how to minister to the grieving family?  U