Aunt Leta

My Aunt Leta left us peacefully yesterday morning. She had been in a 'deep sleep' ever since being revived after she had collapsed in the lobby of her apartment complex Sunday afternoon. She will be missed by many people; her Red Hatters group, her friends at Southwest Presbyterian church, neighbors that she drove to appointments and on errands, and family that she shared her time and many crafting talents with.
Just some old photos from my mother's album.

You can find newer pictures of Aunt Leta if you look at my blog posts that are of family gatherings.

For me, Aunt Leta was an inspiration. She was artistic and independent. She didn't just think about doing things, she did them. Having worked on the family genealogy, I know that Aunt Leta came by these traits quite honestly as she descends from a long line of strong, independent women. What a wonderful legacy to be left with. I will miss you, Aunt Leta.

The Funeral

Does your family take coffin pictures? Some families don't. I remember dad telling me that he had an uncle that didn't believe in having his picture taken, something about graven images. But dad had seen a picture of this same uncle in his coffin, the only picture ever taken of him. On the Tuesday evening before the funeral the family gathered at the mortuary for the official viewing. Dad looked peaceful, at rest, sleeping the sleep of angels.

Wednesday, September 16 the little church in south Wichita was packed tight with friends and family.

The flag draped coffin stood stately in front of the alter.

Pastor Strother Gross was a good friend and joined in singing many songs with dad. The service was personal and from the heart.

Cousin Dianne requested to sing, I remember her singing at grandmother's funeral, dad's mom, so many years ago.

The pallbearers loaded the coffin up for the final trip.

Dad was a proud Marine and the color guard stood patiently waiting...

...along with the bugler.

Silently the color guard moved in determined form, raising the colors from the wooden coffin...

...taps began playing from across the headstones.

When taps had ended the flag was folded...

...saluted...

...and presented to my mother.

...the final farewell for a life well served.

The pall bearers filed past and placed their corsages in front of the grave.

Back at the church the ladies of the church prepared a wonderful meal for the family.

Cousin Dave picked up dad's guitar from the table and began to play...

...soon we all circled round and joined in. This is what we always have done when we get together.

The video I had put together for dad's 80th birthday played on big screen in the background.

And we sang, and we laughed...

...and we remembered that this is what we ALWAYS do. Below, the remaining two of the five brothers and a little sister.

And everyone noticed the absence of that golden rich tone that was my father's voice. A voice I could always pick out no matter how large the choir. I'll be listening for you, daddy.