Peter Nastasi Memorial Service

This gathering and these beautiful flowers are here in honor and memory of Johnny Hopkins. It is my desire as pastor that the music and message will help lighten the load that family and friends are carrying right now. We trust God’s grace will be sufficient and that He will use us today to celebrate the Home-going of our brother.

We come together this morning as friends and family because someone so dear has been taken. This morning, those who knew Peter the most are suffering. He is a son, a husband, a father and a friend…

We gather together in support of Peter’s family to say that though we do not understand the depths of your sorrow, we are sorrowing with you and are praying the Lord will strengthen you and give you grace during this difficult time.

We gather here today to honor the life of a remarkable man. The memories we created in the past are treasures that I hold dear. Today, I want to celebrate his spirit, qualities, and impact on those around him.

A Love for Music

Music was another passion that defined him. It was more than just a hobby; it was a part of his identity. He found solace in melodies and rhythms, often sharing his favorite tunes with others. Music brings people together, and he had an innate ability to connect with those around him through song. Whether it was strumming a guitar or sharing his favorite tunes while working, he made music an integral part of his life.

Amazing Grace #

Estelle - His Eye is On The Sparrow

Obituary

Peter Nastasi,

76, passed away on Sunday, November 3, 2024, at HopeHealth Hospice in Providence, Rhode Island.

Peter leaves behind his wife of 42 years,

Susan (Thomsen) Nastasi, his son Peter Nastasi IV, his daughter-in-law Marissa Nastasi, his step-daughter Elizabeth Paolucci, and two grandchildren, Isabella Nastasi and Peter Arthur Nastasi.

Peter grew up in North Providence and lived in Smithfield for over 20 years before moving to Johnston. He loved the Yankees, he loved food, and he loved going to the gym! He absolutely loved our Lord Jesus. He attended Friendship Baptist Church in Warwick, Rhode Island, and his new address is Heaven.

Prayer

His Smile

Peter’s Smile

An Encouragement

Peter was a beacon of encouragement, lifting people up with words that felt like a warm embrace and actions that made each of us feel valued and loved.

When we faced challenges, [Peter was the one who reminded us of our strength. With just a smile or a gentle word, they had a way of dissolving our doubts, making us believe we could conquer anything. If you were feeling low, Peter knew exactly what to say or do to lift your spirits. They reminded us that setbacks were just part of the journey, and that each of us had within us the power to rise, to keep going, and to become better.

Consistent

Today, we come together to honor and remember Peter, a person whose steady, unwavering presence enriched our lives beyond measure. In a world that often feels uncertain, Peter was our constant—someone we could always count on, someone who brought a sense of stability and trust into everything they did.

From the very beginning, it was clear that he was a man of incredible work ethic. He approached every task with dedication and determination, whether in his career or personal projects. His hardworking nature inspired those around him to strive for excellence.

He taught us that hard work is not just about the end result but the journey and the lessons learned along the way.

A Sense of Humor

One of his most cherished qualities was his sense of humor. He had a way of lighting up any room with laughter, turning ordinary moments into uncomfortably funny and even treasured memories. His jokes and playful banter reminded us not to take life too seriously and to find joy in even the simplest things.

Went on a family trip, saw some animal tracts on the ground and said “look bear tracks!”

In his unique way, He wanted people to be happy.

His laughter will echo in our hearts forever.

Patriot

Today, we gather not only to say goodbye but to honor and remember the life of [Name], a true patriot and hero. [Name] served our country with courage, resilience, and unwavering dedication, embodying the values that make our nation strong. His service, particularly during the Vietnam War, is a testament to his bravery and his commitment to protecting the freedoms we hold dear.

He was thrust into a world far from home, in a place and time marked by uncertainty and danger. Yet, through it all, [Peter] stood firm. He didn’t flinch from his duties; he upheld them with valor, facing challenges with a strength that left an impression on everyone around him.

Though he rarely spoke of his experiences, his actions spoke volumes. His life was marked by a spirit of service that extended well beyond the battlefield. He continued to give back to his community, his family, and his friends. He helped wherever he was needed, always with the same courage and commitment he showed in Vietnam. Whether it was volunteering, supporting fellow veterans, or lending a hand to neighbors, [Name]'s life was a legacy of service.

For his family, He provided strength and love. Peter faced every moment with a resilience and quiet fortitude that set an example for those who loved him. He showed us all what it meant to live a life of purpose, to stand up for what’s right, and to care deeply about the people around us.

As we say goodbye today, we hold onto the memory of a man who gave so much of himself, who served with honor, and who showed us the true meaning of sacrifice. Peter’s legacy lives on in each of us, a reminder of the courage it takes to serve, the strength it takes to endure, and the love that binds us all together.

Today we honor Him. We thank you for your service, your bravery, and the sacrifices you made. Rest now, dear friend and hero, knowing that your legacy lives on in our hearts and in the country you loved. We are forever grateful.

Conclusion

Let us celebrate his unique qualities: his hard work, creativity, resourcefulness, adventurous spirit, humor, and love for music. Though our paths may have diverged in recent years, the bond we once shared remains strong.

Memorial Service Sermon: “The Hope of Heaven”

Scripture: John 14:1-6

John 14:1–6 KJV 1900

1 Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. 2 In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. 4 And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know. 5 Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way? 6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

Introduction

Today, we gather not only to mourn the loss of our dear loved one but also to remember and celebrate their life. Amid our sorrow, Jesus’ words in John 14 provide comfort and hope.

Here, Jesus speaks directly to the sorrowful heart, offering peace and assurance to all who believe in Him.

"Hope is never lost to those who know Christ; though earthly troubles abound, the hope of glory stands above all." – William Law

In these verses, we find three alliterated truths that guide us toward the hope of heaven:

The Lord’s Preparation, The Lord’s Presence, and The Lord’s Promise.

1. Preparation: "I Go to Prepare a Place for You"

Jesus tells His disciples, "I go to prepare a place for you." He is preparing a heavenly home, where all our sorrow, pain, and tears will be wiped away. This is a promise that heaven is not a vague idea but a prepared place, crafted by the hands of Jesus Himself for each of His followers.

Illustration:

Imagine a loved one preparing a home for the one they love who has been away for a long time. They set up their favorite things, make the space comfortable, and ensure it’s ready for their return. This is just a glimpse of what Jesus does for us. He prepares a perfect home where we will find rest, joy, and peace.

One man said “If I find in myself a desire which no experience in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that I was made for another world.” We were indeed made for something beyond this world, and Jesus is preparing that place for us.

2. Presence: "That Where I Am, There Ye May Be Also"

Not only is heaven a prepared place, but it is a place of **presence**—the presence of Christ Himself. Jesus says, "That where I am, there ye may be also." Our loved one now rests in the very presence of the Lord, experiencing a joy and peace that surpasses anything we can imagine on earth.

Illustration:

Think of someone close to you who, just by being there, brings you a deep sense of comfort and joy. Their presence alone brings peace. How much more remarkable is the presence of Jesus? Heaven is filled with this divine presence, free from separation, and it’s a place where we will experience uninterrupted communion with God.

Paul writes in *2 Corinthians 5:8*, "We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord." Our loved one is now entirely in His presence, far better than anything this world could offer.

3. Promise: "I Will Come Again and Receive You"

"Our duty is to wait patiently and joyfully for what we do not yet see, for the time is short, and what we hope for is sure." – Jonathan Edwards

Lastly, Jesus promises: "I will come again and receive you unto myself." This is a comforting assurance that death does not have the final word.

Jesus, who defeated death, promises He will come again to bring us to Himself. Our hope is rooted in this promise.

Jesus loves us deeply, and His promise is sure. We will be with Him again, reunited with our loved ones.

Charles Spurgeon once said, “Little faith will bring your soul to heaven, but great faith will bring heaven to your soul.” Even a small amount of faith in this promise fills our hearts with the hope of heaven and the assurance that Jesus will come again.

Conclusion

In these words from John 14, Jesus gives us hope through three truths:

the Preparation He has made,

the Presence we will experience,

the Promise of His return.

How Can I Claim these promises as mine; How can I know

God Loves you

John 3:16 KJV 1900

16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

Sin Separates us from God

Rom 5:12 Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:

Rom 3:23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;

Sin Costs a great deal

Rom 6:23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

John 3:18 He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.

God paid the price

Rom 5:8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

Rom 5:9 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.

Believe

Rom 10:9 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.

Rom 10:10 For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.

Rom 10:11 For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.

Rom 10:12 For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him.

Rom 10:13 For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

John 5:24 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.

"There is more grace and mercy in Christ than there is sin in us. In that, our hope stands firm and unwavering." – George Whitefield

Now, with our heads bowed, I wonder if there is someone who has never received the Lord Jesus Christ as Saviour. If so, may I lovingly and tenderly tell you what a wonderful thing it is to be born again and a Christian? May I recommend the Saviour to you? If someone in the service today has never received the Saviour but would like to, would you please lift your hand while every head is bowed and every eye is closed? Thank you, and God bless you.

Our loved one now rests in that place prepared by Jesus, experiencing the fullness of His presence and the fulfillment of His promises.

As we continue on our journey, may we hold fast to the hope of heaven. Though our hearts grieve, we can find comfort in knowing that our loved one is with Jesus, and we, too, have this same hope through faith in Him. This hope brings us peace, and in that peace, we can find strength to carry on, looking forward to the day when we will be reunited.

Let us close with the comforting words of Revelation 21:4 (KJV):

"And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away."

Prayer

Our Father, we thank you for the glorious hope that is ours in Christ Jesus. We thank you for your faithfulness to us and for keeping your promises.

The family would like to invite everyone to join us for a time of refreshment and fellowship downstairs in the fellowship hall. This will be a chance to share memories, offer comfort to one another, and continue celebrating the life of our dear loved one together. Please feel welcome to stay, as we find comfort and community in each other's presence."