80-yr. Old Throws Celebration: Birthday/FUNeral
A fascinating woman recently turned 80. The unconventional lady, Joan, decided she wanted to participate in her funeral so she threw this party. I played at Joan’s last wedding, and I’ve played my harp for many unusual events but this FUNeral was a first. The event was thought-provoking, spiritual, fun, and beautiful.
FUNeral Agenda
The 80th Birthday/FUNeral consisted of a somewhat traditional funeral or memorial ritual. The unusual part of the service included Joan being helped by her sons into a wooden casket with luscious purple pillows. I played on my harp while everyone sang a hymn and various people gave testimonies during the service.
After the service, the celebration began. There was music and Hula dancing, led by the “Fountain of Ukes,” delicious food, conversation and connecting with old friends.
Suggestions for Funeral/Memorial Music
If you don’t have a clue how to choose music for a funeral or memorial, check out this list of songs.
Religious
Amazing Grace
Ave Maria
How Great Thou Art
On Eagles’ Wings
In the Garden
Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring
Hymn of the Universe
It Is Well With My Soul
Today
Classical
Reverie – Debussy
Clair de Lune – Debussy
New World Symphony (Going Home) – Dvorak
18th Variation – Rachmaninoff
Popular and Folk
Angels Among Us
The Rose
Memory
Over The Rainbow
Wind Beneath My Wings
What a Wonderful World
Danny Boy
Greensleeves
You’ll Never Walk Alone
To hear samples of these songs and many more ideas, go towww.heavenlyharpist.com/harp-cd.htm. Click on any CD and any song to listen.