August 7, 2024
After leaving John in the chapel, I sat down with Ms. Davis to organize his funeral program before sending the final copy 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.
Throughout the years, I’ve seen some elaborate funeral programs which contain multiple 8″x10″ pages full of pictures that show a life well lived. I’ve also seen some programs the size of a notecard with just a few simple loving 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 four pictures and am pleased to say I had no difficulty choosing them because each one offers a glimpse into who John was and highlights his proudest moments during his short life on Earth.
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 his proudest accomplishment of all; his daughter Kammy,
I included the poem “The Broken Chain” with this picture of John and Kammy because of its emotional impact.
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.”
Before I ended the call, I made sure to tell her that we love her.
And she replied, “I love you more.”
I really needed to hear that right now.
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