Gayle... I think that is such a wonderful idea of Gary's, funerals are such a hard time for loved ones to get through, at a time when they are already suffering so much. At least this way Gary has spared everyone that, and even though it is not exactly the traditional way to do things ............. it is what Gary wanted and that is ALL that matters now.

I think it will be a lovely way to remember him, not that you will need to be reminded Gayle, he will be with you every day anyway, in your heart.

Lots of love to you and take care.

This is a lovely idea, Gayle. Gary should be celebrated!

What a sweet way to be remembered. That's exactly what I would think that Gary would want. A lot of people are being cremated and then having services done later......less stress about getting together and lower costs. I think it's a wonderful idea!!!

It's definitely a break from southern tradition, and I'm all for it! I think it is a perfect way to celebrate a life well lived. I'm sure his sisters will adjust to the idea. Mike wants to do much the same as Gary has chosen. Big surprise again, huh?
I just hurt for the pain you are going through, but thank God for your strength!

Gayle, Gary is my kind of man. I hate traditional funerals and I can totally understand his point of view. I think it's wonderful your doing Gary's wishes, good for you.

Celebrating Gary will be beautiful :40::40::40:

Thank you all so much for your kind words. I truly cherish each and everyone of them.

I was really tired yesterday. We stayed up too late the night before. But I slept well last night and hopefully I'll feel better today. I was going to go home today, but Abi asked me to stay one more day. She has to go back to school tomorrow for finals week, so she'll be busy then. She adored her Papaw, and she's having a hard time. I lost my grandpa at age 14, and I remember how hard it was for me. I have no reason to hurry home, so I'll stay one more day. My daughter has been cooking me meat and fresh vegetables. I hadn't eaten well at all the past couple of weeks while Gary was in the hospital, so I really need the nutritious food.

The get together for Gary will be June 23rd. Next weekend is just too soon, the following weekend is father's day weekend, so we will have it the following weekend.

I am so glad you are with family right now. Two weeks sounds like a good space of time before the get together. You don't want it too soon, or it will not be as meaningful, since everyone is probably in a bity of shock now.

I love you, my dear friend.

I so agree with Judy. Waiting another day will not hurt, enjoy being with the ones you love and the ones that love you. It will be a good thing to wait.

I'm glad you stayed the extra day with the kids. I'm sure they need that connection with you. It sounds like your daughter is taking good care of you......maybe you should stay a few more days!!! It will be hard going home. My heart goes out to you.

I think that you've set the perfect time to get together for Gary's memorial service. Everyone will have time to plan to go.

Gayle, I am so very sorry for your loss. I know that your heart is broken. I think that the way that Gary wants to be remembered is wonderful. Traditional funerals are sooo hard and sooo sad. Prayers of comfort are being sent to you dear friend.

Hi Gayle,

I hope today went okay for you.

Love you!

Thinking of you Gayle.

I posted under "what did you do today". I'm going to start posting there. I need to get back some normalcy.

I think that is a good decision Gayle.

Gayle, I am so sorry to hear about Gary. Glad you have family to help you though this. You are in my prayers.