Poems For Funeral

When it's time to say goodbye, A Gift of Poetry

is a truly meaningful way of expressing your

innermost thoughts and feelings.

(Here's a good example of what can be achieved. Laura was going to be speaking at her grandmother's funeral and wanted to say something cheerful. Laura has kindly given her permission for her poem and story to be published)

Bigger and Better

What is your name :     Laura Nugent

Who do you want the poem written for:   Vivian Figlak- grandmother

Why do you want the poem written :       I've been asked to speak at my grandmothers funeral and I have a hard time putting my thoughts and feelings into words.  I tend to get too serious and sometimes its nice to have a sense of humor.  My grandmother always had a joke for us and was full of vim and vigor.

What are the key messages you would like to send :       Hard worker - grew up on the farm and said she worked so hard growing up that she never wanted to live on a farm.  She put herself through college and became an elementary teacher for 34 years.  She loved her work and was very proud of this accomplishment. Our family has enjoyed her wit and wisdom throughout the years.  For example:  "Doesn't that just wet your whistle."  "Whatever your thinking may it be bigger and better",  "That's just duck wucky", "Be positive",  "Woo Wee!", and "I taught school for 34 years - they need to put discipline back in the school."

She loved the Lord and taught us the importance of living a life to serve Him. She had a very big heart and was influential in passing along the gift and importance of always thinking and doing for others.

She had a zest for life - survived two husbands, two face lifts, loved to dance, play cards, traveled abroad (all of the European countries except Spain)

She was always very positive and looked for the best in a situation.  She was determined to live a long life, and stayed healthy for 94 years.  A few falls but that didn't slow her down.

She raised two daughters: Carole the oldest (my mother) and Sandi, 10 years younger.  She worked while raising a family in the late 40's and 50's.  Inspirational - having a career and raising a family at that time.

Do you have any funny, sad, happy, embarrassing or otherwise memorable moments that you would like to share :       She had numerous stories about her childhood.  Walking to school, chores on the farm, owning the first Model T in town (Marlette, MI). She made a prize winning apple pie.  Celebrated many Labor Day's at her house for the MI Peach Festival, but we still loved her apple pies! As a child, trips to Aunt Zetta's (her sister) farm in Marlette to play with the cousins.  Chased down by a cow when bringing them in from the pasture and grandma came to my rescue.

Grandma would let us (the 4 grandkids - though not at the same time) go to school with her for a day and be part of her class.  I think she liked to show us off to her class.

Summer fun and dancing at Torch Lake. She loved music and dancing.
She taught us the box step in her living room and wouldn't quit until we learned it. We also loved to listen to listen to her play the piano. She could still play her favorites late in life. She was still wearing a bikini into her late eighties.

Do you have any other comments or thoughts :       She lived 94 wonderful years full of hard work and at the same time fun, excitement.  She survived two husbands, raised 2 daughters, and has 6 grandchildren.  She was the last of her generation and truly loved by all.  She celebrated life and taught us to do the same.

What style of poem would you prefer (happy, sad, romantic etc.) :       happy
 

Please choose which package you would prefer : Deluxe

Would you like a copy of the handwritten drafts: Yes

Do you have any last comments or thoughts :       Today is Friday, March3.  Her funeral is scheduled for Monday, March 7.  Is it possible to have something put together so I can read it at her funeral Monday morning?  If so I would like to complete the order.  Thanks for your consideration.  Laura

"It's adorable!  We absolutely loved it.  It was light hearted and celebrated her life, exactly what I was looking for.  Thanks so much.

 Personal note:  Here's a tribute to grandma - a celebration of her life.  I love you Mom!  Love always, Laura

Pink card for final poem

Verse: 

 It was peaches and cream on many Labor Day's,

but my! Look at how her mighty tree has grown,

two daughters and six grandchildren, eight great grandchildren

we're all very grateful for the love that she's shown.

 Also, not a problem to post the poem on your website. I'm very grateful for your talent and efforts to have a personalized poem so well done and in time for her funeral.  Most Sincerely, Laura”

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