Highlights from a funeral

Dennis and I got to attend a beautiful Memorial Service a week or so ago
for a prior Stake President, and the father of a very dear friend of mine.
Here are some highlights that I have pondered in my mind since then.


"Our lives passed away like as it were unto us a dream."  Jacob 7:26

This was the scripture that began the eulogy given by Richard Turner's grandson Travis. He said this is why we need to appreciate each and every day we have. It all passes away as if it were a dream. I'm beginning to understand that phrase more as the years go by.

* His Grandpa referred to old age as "finishing school."

* When they had to take his car keys away, which was a terrible thing for him, he said, "This is the way it is, so I will adjust."

* When his 4 children were teenagers he said they all lived in a 1100 square foot home, and those were very happy times.

* He would save his money all year long so he could take his children out every New Year's Eve to a very fancy restaurant.

* He taught his children to "watch and listen to find ways to serve others."

* He use to keep bird seed in the back of his car so he would be able to feed any birds that seemed hungry.

* His motto that he had written in his journal, read:  
"Strict with self, generous with others."

*  Towards the end of his life he required round the clock care in a local facility. His family said they feel that with all the service he rendered to others in his life...is why his tenders were truly angels from heaven.

His grandson finished his eulogy by saying,  
"He is with his Annie now and we hope they are dancing in heaven."


His daughter has been my Visiting Teacher and close friend for nearly 15 years.
Each month we sit and chat in our family room for 2-3 hours. 
It's enlightening, therapeutic and my kind of fun.
The bonds we form on earth will still be there in the next life. 
I'm sure of it.
 I keep thinking how it will be like just stepping into another room.

8 comments:

cristie said...

such a sweet post. xox

Richard said...

Thanks. I was not aware. I check the obits in the Bee almost daily and did not see his...

Susan Rozier said...

I love hearing what is said at funerals about the departed. He seemd to be an exceptional husband and father. Thanks for sharing. Love, Dad and Susan

threelittlebackseatdrivers.blogspot.com said...

Wait...was this Patriarch Turner? Travis M's grandfather? He gave me my patriarchal blessing if it's the same gentleman. :(

Grandma Honey said...

Right Nat, it's Patriarch Turner, and Travis' Grandpa. He gave 2 of my sons their blessings also.

Tamara said...

This is a wonderful tribute.

Susan Anderson said...

I love his motto and think I will adopt it.

=)

Lisa said...

Is that Jan's dad? So I guess she got you back! THe words you penned & the message by his grand son is truly one of the most beautiful expressions of love I have read in a long long time. It definitely stimulated my mind as to some things I want to remember! Again. Thanks for sharing.

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