What happens at a Mormon funeral?

Last week a friend and I attended the funeral of a friend of ours who died from throat cancer. He was only fifty-five and left a wife and four children, one who is still in high school. The funeral took place in a Mormon church building. When I walked in I was greeted with a smile by another couple I know. Attendees were dressed in many different colors. Some wore darker clothes but black is not the expected attire. There were even a few men and young men wearing their scout uniforms because Marti was a scout leader. I wanted to attend the funeral in part to show support for the family although with the filled chapel, they didn't know I was there, but even more because I wanted to be reminded of my own purpose on this earth. A Mormon funeral is a celebration of the life of the deceased and of the plan of salvation and the atonement of Jesus Christ. We heard musical numbers which expressed the family's love for their dad, brother, son and also their love for the Savior. The talks taught us about Marti and how he lived his life, but we also heard and felt testimonies of Jesus Christ and how the speakers knew from personal experience that this life is not the end and that we can all live with our Heavenly Father again. There was crying and I'm sure the family will continue to mourn the passing of this wonderful man. But the crying was also an expression of joy that this life is not the end and that they will be reunited with Marti again.

I've attended the funerals of all my grandparents but one grandfather who is still alive. When I attended the funeral of my mom's dad, I felt an immense grief. My granddad had not been close to his family and had not participated in church for years. When my mom's mom died, I felt relief for the end of her years of suffering and joy at the life she lived. I know when I die she will be there to greet me, her short frame a bit taller because she won't be stooped with age and hampered by broken hips. She'll give me a big smack on the cheek probably with bright red lips painted with lipstick. Towards the end of his life, my granddad softened a bit, and I hope that he will greet me as well and we will have a better relationship in the life after than we did in this life.

Attending a Mormon funeral reminds me that I want to do better--keep the commandments, serve, appreciate my family, and enjoy life--so that I will be ready to leave this mortal existence and be greeted with open arms by those I love who've completed their journey on earth.