A Final Goodbye

After the weather we had late last week, we were blessed to wake to a crisp, dry winter's morning.  We gathered at the house to await the undertaker and the hearse.  There was an air of solemnity but also a lightness.  At 10:45 we headed out to our cars and made the short, slow journey around to the village church.

The church seemed busy as we walked to take our seats at the front of the church but I noticed little as we headed up the aisle. Blessed Assurance was the opening hymn, a bible reading, the Vicar eulogised about Grannie and her life.  Alleluia preceded prayers.  Great is thy faithfulness was the recessional hymn.

With the cold weather, the vicar said that people could stay in the church if they wished.  As the coffin was carried out to the graveside, "You shall go forth with joy" was played on the organ.  More upbeat than some would expect for a funeral but a fitting end for her to go out to now she is at peace.  You can't help a smile crossing your lips as it plays.

I'd never attended a burial before, I was unsure what to expect, fresh graves and soft ground meant most stayed on the path, with only family close next to the grave.  Green astroturf covered the bare earth and the pile waiting to be infilled.  A wooden cross lay waiting to be instated as a temporary headstone.  Numb, from the cold and mix of emotions.

As we filed back in to church, there were kind words from those who knew her.  Familiar faces from our youth, family friends, strangers who knew us from the stories our gran had told them.  All gathered to celebrate the life of a much loved woman who had touched many lives.

We gathered in the Boot & Shoe, a sherry on arrival, my gran's favourite tipple.  A wonderful spread was put on for the funeral tea.  More kind words, socialising, a calm yet happy feel.  By early afternoon, the last of the guests had left, one last coffee with family gathered together.

We detoured back past the churchyard on our way back to the lodge.  G entertained Emily in the car whilst Rachel & I took the chance for a wander through the church and graveyard to the graveside. A chance for some quiet contemplation and to say goodbye.

In the evening the solemnity of the day was put aside as we chatted, ate, drank and were merry.