Yesterday was a beautiful day honoring Neal’s dad, Dale. It started in the morning at the graveside. Dale served in World War II so after Dale and Bobbie’s long time friend and previous pastor read about the meaning of taps an Army representative played taps. The two soldiers then crisply and with respect folded the American flag draped on Dale’s casket and presented it to Bobbie and thanked her for Dale’s service for our country. It was very moving. It was also very moving for me to sit under the tent again in a chair so close to the casket. The memory of sitting there for Neal was all too fresh in my mind.
Dale’s service at the church was very honoring to him and his love for Jesus. Dale’s granddaughter had several years ago recorded some of Dale and Bobbie’s favorite hymns which a couple were played at the service. A grandson-in-law read one of Dale’s prayers he had written (more of that to come on another post). Britton gave the message and did a great job speaking about Philippians 4:4-8, Dale’s favorite passage. Following we made the familiar walk to the back of the church for a luncheon.
I and my children all commented on how much harder this was than Neal’s service. I think it was because we were numb for Neal’s and it seemed more real now. We were all much more emotional.
It was fun to be together as a family with aunts and uncles and cousins. We enjoy being together which is a testament to Bobbie and Dale placing such an emphasis on family. Thursday and Friday night we played games, told stories and laughed.
