News
November 12, 2004
Fred's family stood with him as he sat in the Barton Chair, wrapped in multiple blankets. It was the first cold November day and Mary Alice was being "laid to rest." Her great-grandson,Andrew, asked, "will they give her a blanket? It's cold out here." The warmth of a family's love far exceeded the outside temperature. The beautiful red roses and lilies that draped over the casket were sent by the Jack Dodge family. The fragrance they emitted was the "aroma of love," according to Fred. Dr. Ramesh Richard boldly proclaimed the fact that she is now in heaven. His loud tones were designed to allow Fred to hear, but they reverberated throughout the Abbey Estates as if to reassure others of the impermanence of life and the holy permanence of eternity.
Her service was not a celebration because Fred adamantly said, "She is home but we are here and it is time to grieve." But we grieved, "not as ones without hope." Bob Deffinbaugh, the pastor who had long loved Mary Alice was training others in India. He had asked the Lord to keep her until his return, but the Lord had other plans. So, the family chose to do the service all by themselves. All three children, Brenda, Fred and Mary Helen spoke, as well as grandson, Jeff. Granddaughters, Heather, Meredith, Catherine and Haley read scripture, as did grandson Greg. The message was delivered by husband of 67 years, Fred. Yes, he delivered the message! He spoke with tenderness and with fire. He talked about what marriage means and illustrated his points with wonderful stories from their life together. He held his composure to the end when tears came as he pronounced a personal benediction, "Good night, sweet lady, see you in the morning."
The platform was covered with flowers of all colors and shapes. We could just imagine her amazement at the abundant outpouring of affection in a room filled with friends and family. Her life of service was remembered. Her love was expressed and appreciated. She was memorialized as the woman of God she was. Mary Alice's was a life well-lived and we were all proud of her and to be hers!
