I think that Grandma would have approved of her funeral on Saturday. The family gathered at her house to wait for the funeral cars to collect us, and it reminded us of waiting there on the day of Jimmy’s funeral fourteen years ago. The service was very traditional, led by the lovely minister from Burnside Church, with hymns The Lord is my Shepherd and Dear Lord and Father of Mankind. Both of her sons and all six of her grandchildren were present. Jamie, who had arrived from New Zealand on Friday, gave a short speech on James’ behalf which focused on Grandma’s love of helping others. Forrest and the minister gave readings and then we all went back to the Burnside Hotel where we had sandwiches and cakes. Everyone chatted and told fond stories about Grandma and the old days down at Anderson’s coal yard.
By the time the last guests had left at about 3 p.m. we were exhausted and, back at the house, James lit the fire in the lounge, where we sat and relaxed and talked and played Trivial Pursuit. It had been a long day but I felt that we had all done our duty to Jean and said a proper farewell.
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