Family and friends gathered together yesterday, May 6th 2010 to celebrate the life of Louis A. Heringes Sr. (Daddy)The service took place in a little church in Upland California that was built in 1910. It was a lovely old building.
Pastor Don Roy from Pathway Church in Garden Grove, opened with a beautiful prayer and noticed there were baby birds chirping. (It sounded like they may have nested in the rafters of the ceiling.) He made mention of how appropriate that was...a symbol of new birth...Daddy has just begun his new life in heaven. Pastor Don's kindness and comforting words meant so much to Richard and me and our family and friends. The Lord used him in a wonderful way.
My husband Richard sang a very sweet song called Goin' Home". One of the verses say,"one day I'll be sleeping when death knocks on my door and I'll awake to find that I'm not homesick anymore...I'll be home...I'm goin' home...where I belong." (That's just how it was for Daddy. He passed so peacefully from this life into eternity.) A few stood and shared sweet memories and stories.
The service ended with a beautiful version of "The Battle Hymn of the Republic" (Glory, Glory, Hallelujah...one of Daddy's favorites. )
Everyone seemed happy to receive their little kiffles in remembrance of Daddy.
We then had a police escort to the Veterans Memorial Cemetery. The service there was so moving. It was extra special to see that the color guard were veterans of WWII.
Some of them looked very frail, but, they proudly stood on both sides as Daddy's casket was carried into place. We all followed after. My sister Darla, brother Louie Jr. and Richard and I sat in front to receive the flag.
Some of them looked very frail, but, they proudly stood on both sides as Daddy's casket was carried into place. We all followed after. My sister Darla, brother Louie Jr. and Richard and I sat in front to receive the flag.
A gentleman stood and welcomed us and spoke so beautifully thanking Daddy for his service to his country and offering his condolences. Next those dear veterans gave Daddy a 21 gun salute. Then we heard the sound of taps being played very slowly and sweetly.
Next was the presentation of the flag that was draped on Daddy's casket. Two soldiers carefully removed it. It was amazing to see the care and respect they showed as they slowly and reverently folded it. Then, one of the soldiers holding the flag knelled down and personally offered his condolences to the family as he presented the flag.
Pastor Don then shared a beautiful poem and comforting words and Scripture.
At the very last, Richard stood and invited everyone to sing Daddy's favorite song "God Bless America". I could just imagine him smiling and singing along waving his arms directing the "choir" just like he did the day before he passed.
There was a lovely reception for family and friends at Louie & D'Ann's house. (my brother & sister-in-law)
It was all beautifully bitter-sweet. Sad to think Daddy is no longer here with us in the physical sense, but, ever so sweet knowing he is safe with Jesus reunited with my mother and so many who have gone before.
Needless to say, there were many tears shed yesterday. Even as I write they are welling up. I expect that will happen from time to time for a while.
I love you and will miss you sweet Daddy...untill we meet again.
If you would like to listen to the the song "Goin' Home" by B.J. Thomas, just click on the link below:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0wQgx98jmZQ
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0wQgx98jmZQ
This is a beautiful version of "The Battle Hymn of the Republic" (Glory, Glory Hallelujah) by Andy Williams:
My sister Darla, brother Louie Jr. and I want to thank our family and friends for the lovely cards, flowers, food, prayers and comfort so freely given at this difficult time.
