My dad's funeral was yesterday. I thought I'd share some details for those who couldn't attend.

The pastor opened by reading from Romans 8:28-39, which says that all things work together for good for those who love God and that nothing, even death, can separate them from God's love.

Everyone then sang the song, "It Is No Secret." My dad always told my mom that, when he died, he wanted two songs sung at his funeral: "It Is No Secret" and "In the Garden." A soloist sang "It Is No Secret" a capella, and everyone sang "In the Garden" from a hymnal. "It Is No Secret" was my dad's favorite song because it informs people that God's life-changing salvation is freely available to everyone.

The pastor then spoke about Herb's life and impact in the community and through FP. This was followed by a time for people to share personal stories about Herb. It was amazing to see how many people he impacted through his different spheres of life. Some shared stories of how he sacrificially served them through his insurance business, going far beyond the call of duty to help them. Others shared about Herb's dedication to his family. And others shared about Herb's influence on their lives through FP. Everyone described him as always helpful, kind, gentle and joyful, with a smile continually on his face. The pastor also read two comments from the FP discussion board.

The pastor said Herb has truly left a legacy and urged all those in attendance to ponder what their own legacy will be. He emphasized the hope of heaven Herb had and encouraged people to find that hope for themselves through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

Several local people from FP attended, as well as one gentleman who came all the way from Texas. It also was a joy to speak with another gentleman from Hollywood. Thank you to all of you who've sent flowers, plants, cards and donations. The FP family has showed an amazing outpouring of love and support to Herb and our entire family that has strengthened us during this time. The donations provided all Herb's funeral and burial expenses -- a beautiful gift from all of you. 

After the service, people drove to the cemetery where the pastor spoke a few more words about Herb's hope. He quoted from C.S. Lewis' book The Last Battle (part of the Chronicles of Narnia series). In the quote, Aslan (a lion, who represents Christ) describes death as a bright new beginning, telling the children (who represent God's people): "The term is over: the holidays have begun. The dream is ended: this is the morning."

After the graveside service, everyone headed back to the church for a time of fellowship and enjoyed a lunch generously provided by the church's women's ministry. 

Many people told our family how uplifting the funeral was -- with no despair and lots of hope. They were inspired by Herb's legacy and the funeral's focus on Jesus -- just as Herb's always was and still is.