Mimi's Memorial Service

Due to the Holiday weekend, Mimi's memorial service was set for Monday, January 3. The visitation was scheduled for 2-6 at the funeral home Sunday afternoon. No one really knew what to expect and couldn't have imagined the turn-out if we had tried. For 4 hours, we entertained visitors who came by to tell their stories and share their love for Mimi, Papa and the entire family.

It was a beautiful celebration of Mimi's long life. Even Papa didn't realize the depth of Mimi's love for others.

Monday morning, we all arrived at the funeral home for another short visitation. Again, we were greeted by friends wishing to share in the memories of Mimi.

After the visitation, we headed to the graveside for a brief service. Uncle Melvin had decided on Scripture that Ryan, Tim, Wesley, Joshua and Caleb would read. My mom had written down some key aspects of Mimi's life that she wanted Emily, Susan and me to share.

Dad started the service with some welcoming comments and Uncle Max followed with a beautiful prayer and tribute to his sister. Joshua and Caleb then read Psalms 23 and lead us all in "Jesus Loves Me."

Emily went first with her tribute. She spoke of Mimi's dear friends, Dot and Charlotte. Dot, Charlotte and Mimi always celebrated together on Christmas Eve. This year was no exception. Six days before her death, Mimi was at Dot's house celebrating a Christmas tradition.

I followed with my tribute. I spoke of her family - Papa, Uncle Melvin, Mom, Dad.

Susan followed with stories of Mimi's life as grandmother and great-grandmother.

Wesley finished with a few words. His main story was a conversation overheard at the hospital between Mimi and Aunt Joy:

Aunt Joy: Net, you were such a servant of the Lord

Mimi: I tried

Aunt Joy: You succeeded!

It was a lovely service filled with great memories, a few tears, and most importantly family. I truly believe it would have been exactly what Mimi would have wanted!