Four funerals in six days. The angels in our midst were being called home.
Easily over 300 people gathered to say goodby to Joyce. Five priests celebrated Mass and a sixth was hospitalized or he would have been there, too. She left behind her husband and children, men who stood like sequoias with mighty branches sagging in the sorrow of her absence. She so wanted everyone to love each other and get along. What a powerful impression she has branded onto the world.
Then, again another story of life was celebrated with Mass, lifting Donice in prayer. Ninety-three years blessed her with experiences many only read about. She learned gracefully through hardships of drought, the Great Depression, World War II, and the death of her loving spouse. A virtual landmark of steadfast faith and dedication, her statement of life is a lighthouse to all those she touched.
Just days later, another couple hundred gathered at Mass to wish Betty farewell. Her husband and ten daughters carried her love on into the world. Her memory is held gently with a delicate touch and tear-laced stories of her charity, stamina, fortitude, and faith. The life lessons she taught in her example of love will carry her essence far into generations to come.
Most recently, Helen Mary, a wisp of gentleness, quietly left life behind. With a scant group of people, her Mass was most modest. She touched her small family so deeply, words faltered to convey her service to others. Quiet, sincere and full of joy and encouragement were the thoughts that captured the message of her eighty-eight years. Another woman that glistened with hopeful love has moved beyond.
“. . . and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.”