August 7, 2024
After the viewing concluded, I sat down with Ms. Davis to finalize John’s funeral program before sending the final copy over to the printing company. For some reason, I’m that person who always keeps a copy of the program from every funeral I attend. The obituary in the program contains family history which I think is always important to remember and pass down to the next generation. Funeral programs can be a family tree at your fingertips.
I guess that’s the reason why.
Over the years, I’ve encountered a range of funeral programs, from elaborate ones featuring multiple 8″x10″ pages filled with pictures celebrating a life well lived, to simpler programs the size of a notecard with just a few heartfelt words. I decided that John’s program would lie somewhere between the two. It’s the standard 5″x7″ double sided four-page program which includes his obituary, the order of service, interment information, words of thanks and a few pictures.
I selected the following four pictures that showcase who John was and highlight his proudest moments in his short life:
A most recent picture of John
John’s High School Graduation Photo.
The day John took the oath of military enlistment with his family proudly watching.
A picture of him with his pride and joy; his daughter Kammy.
I have often seen the poem “The Broken Chain” included in funeral programs, and I find it to be a beautiful way to offer comfort to those who are grieving. I know I want it in my program and decided to include it in John’s as well.
At first, I wasn’t sure where to place the poem, but when I looked at the picture of John and Kammy lying together with Kammy nestled in his arms, I knew exactly where it belonged; right underneath that picture.
As I gazed at the picture and read the poem below, tears began to flow. Ms. Davis looked at me with compassion and rubbed my back as she handed me another tissue.
I whispered, “I know John’s in the next room, but I still can’t believe he’s really gone.”
The Broken Chain
We little knew that day,
God was going to call your name.
In life, we loved you dearly,
In death, we do the same.
It broke our hearts to lose you,
You did not go alone.
For part of us went with you
The day God called you home.
You left us peaceful memories,
Your love is still our guide.
And though we cannot see you,
You are always by our side.
Our family chain is broken,
And nothing seems the same,
But as God calls us one by one,
The chain will link again.
Yes, my son, the chain will link again.
As we were driving back home from this very emotional experience, my phone rang.
It was my daughter Justice calling to say she overslept.
My sister-mom was right again. She usually is.
She asked how John looked.
“He looked very nice. They did a great job.”
We talked about several things, including the possibility of her staying overnight to make sure she wouldn’t oversleep and miss the funeral tomorrow.
Before ending the call, I made a point to say, “I love you” because losing John so suddenly made me truly realize you never know when the last conversation with someone will be.
And she replied, “I love you more, Mom.”
I really needed to hear that right now.
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