Funeral Service: Carol Benjamin

Intro:

Good morning,

On behalf of the family, I’d like to welcome everyone as we gather to remember Carol Benjamin. Days like this are always difficult. It hurts. We grieve. It doesn’t feel right. Because, honestly, it’s not. Death feels foreign because it’s was not part of God’s original plan for His beloved creation. He desired that we have life, and life more abundantly - full of His love. So, when we are faced with death, when we experience it, it hurts.

And yet, while we grieve, we also take a moment to celebrate. Because life is precious. And Carol’s life was precious. Her almost-92 years were filled with joyous memories. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, family member and friend. She loved the simple things in life (like a coffee and donut from Dunkin), but was also the life of the party. And so, as we grieve, we also thank God for the memories, and the many ways Carol impacted our lives.

I’d like to read a beloved passage from the Bible that has often been a comfort in moments like this…

Psalm 23:1–6 ESV

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

Would you join me in prayer?

Father, we gather in this solemn place to remember the life and mourn the death our loved one, Carol. We ask that You would comfort each family member and friend. May they turn to Your Word for comfort, be encouraged through happy memories, and purpose in their heart to seek You while You may be found. Most of all, we take a moment to thank You for Carol’s life. In Jesus name, amen.

Two of Carol’s great grandchildren have prepared poems to read in memory of her. I’d like to invite Brent, and then Brianna to share their words.

Brent

Brianna

[Invite Livy to pray]? Or be prepared to share two more Scriptures…

Psalm 42:11 ESV

Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God.

Psalm 46:1–2 ESV

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea,

[Nick to share]

At this moment, the family would like to invite anyone to join them at the cemetery for a short graveside service at 12:30. Will you join me in a closing prayer…