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We gather today to honor and celebrate the life of Mary Elizabeth Boutte, not only to remember her, but also to honor her memory. Our loved one would not want us to be sad and grieved, but to remember her life. Let us take a moment to reflect on her life.

Mary, my cousin a woman whose presence was as rich and soulful as the music she created.

Mary was creative in motion. She found joy in music, acting, and the beauty of diverse artistic expressions. The arts were not merely hobbies for her; they were lifelines. Whether listening to a powerful ballad, watching a moving performance, or expressing herself through creativity, Mary understood something sacred that art speaks when words fall short. It connects; it heals; it reveals truth. Mary lived in that truth.

She was an independent woman of integrity. Mary walked her path with conviction. She did not bend easily to pressure, nor did she compromise her values. She knew who she was.

There was strength in her decisions, dignity in her stance, and honor in the way she carried herself. Mary showed us that independence is not isolation; it is self-respect rooted in courage.

Mary was also a wonderful person with great fortitude and determination. Life does not spare any of us from trials, but Mary met her challenges with resilience. When storms came, she did not crumble. Mary stood firm in James 1:12, “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love Him.

Mary persevered, she endured, she did so with grace and forgiveness for those who often misunderstood her.

In 2 Timothy 4:7, we read, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” Those words echo in Mary’s life. She fought her battles with courage. She ran her race with determination. How fitting it is to remember her through music, the language she cherished. A song that beautifully captures Mary’s spirit is A Song for You by Donny Hathaway.

The song speaks of honesty, reflection, vulnerability, and enduring love. Its lyrics carry both strength and tenderness, just as Mary does. It reminds us that even when words are imperfect, love remains constant. That was Mary’s gift of love expressed authentically.

Today, while our hearts are heavy, we also give thanks. We give thanks for her creativity that inspired us and so many others. For her integrity that can be a model for young women. Mary's determination that unites us today as family and as friends

Mary’s voice may be quiet now, but her melody remains. In every song that moves us, in every courageous step we take, in every act of integrity we choose, Mary lives on.

May we honor her by living in the confidence of Jesus Christ, loving deeply, and standing firmly in who we are. May we exercise forgiveness toward one another, just as Jesus did.

Rest in peace, Mary, my dear cousin. We were blessed because we saw you, we heard you, and we loved you. Your song will never fade.