Final Goodbyes

The family gathered, friends appeared, members of the congregation congregated, t he Priest came in. Orders of service and hymn books were laid out. There were lots of commiserations, we caught up with news, a small group said the rosary, the priest helped those doing readings understand what, when and how. The atmosphere felt very welcoming, positive, and happily sad - as good as it can get for a funeral.
The coffin arrived, and the service started.
When the service was over the family stood around the coffin and said their goodbyes. 
All-in-all a good funeral, and just as she wanted it to be.
Another take on the day from HarlingDarling.