Ship of Fools: Funeral

Thread: Funeral Board: Erin / Ship of Fools.

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Posted by Simon (# 1) on :

I've just heard from Jason Etheredge about the time and place of the funeral. He says...

quote:
The services will be this Friday at the All Souls Anglican Church, 4042 Hartley Road, Orange Park, Florida 32224. My dad is requesting anyone wanting to send flowers to make a donation to a charity of your choice. Can you please pass this on to everyone else on your website. I have received a lot of emails from posters and just don't have enough time to reply to everyone.

Here's the church website

And here's the location on Google maps

If anyone is thinking or planning on attending, can you please post here or PM me? Thanks.

Posted by maleveque (# 132) on :

I wish I could go.
I will make a donation to the All Hallows Guild of the National Cathedral. I know that Erin was on the Altar Guild of her church.
And I will have a bar of Maya Gold in her memory.
- Anne L.

Posted by Rossweisse (# 2349) on :

I wish I could go, too. I'll make a suitable donation - to the Ship.

[ 05. January 2011, 00:39: Message edited by: Rossweisse ]

Posted by jedijudy (# 333) on :

Barring any difficulties, I will be there.
Probably crying my eyes out, but then, most of you know my fluffy bunniness.
Daughter-Unit will be with me, too.

Posted by Ye Olde Motherboarde (# 54) on :

Oh, darn, Jedi.I want to go with you! I checked airfare prices and it was kind of off-putting, so JB and I will giving to the organ fund in memory.

Posted by jlg (# 98) on :

jj, I was thinking you were probably the closeest and hoping you might be able to be there. Thanks for being Ship's representative.

Posted by RooK (# 1852) on :

I'm at the wrong-ass end of the country to contemplate attending, especially with short notice. But the urge claws my insides into miserable shreds, for at least some kind of gesture to appease the tortured idea that I would certainly get to meet Erin some day.

Just imagine if, for whatever twist of reason, Erin had relented at least once in her strict avoidance of shipmeets. Who among us would not have immediately weighed the possibility, even those on far-flung reaches of the globe?

Posted by Rossweisse (# 2349) on :

I keep wishing for a Facebook-style "Like" button to use on these posts...

Yes, RooK, that would have been a trip worth making.

Posted by Tortuf (# 3784) on :

Erin appreciated her privacy.

Why, I have no idea. She was, and is, loved by many.

I suggest we respect that desire.

Posted by comet (# 10353) on :

Like RooK, I'm awfully far away. But the urge to drop everything and fly down is pretty powerful. Unlike my normal modus operendi I actually have money in the bank at the moment. It's quite spoken for; I have four years of pretty stunning abject poverty to clean up after. That and a pretty expensive medical care habit.

Still, I've checked airfare twice today. What keeps me from doing it is the righteous ass chewing I'd get from Erin if I did such a thing.

Posted by Grits (# 4169) on :

I think Erin would be pleased if her passing generated a little financial boost for the Ship. If you don't have a charity of choice, then I think a donation to the Organ Fund would be very appropriate. It doesn't have to be much, but if a lot of us gave a little, it could make a big difference.

Posted by Grits (# 4169) on :

Does anyone know how to get in touch with Presleyterian? I know she'd want to know.

Posted by RooK (# 1852) on :

I'll email her.

Posted by Chorister (# 473) on :

As the Ship was what Erin fought for so passionately, I agree that a donation to that cause would be most appropriate.
I'll make it snappy.

Posted by Gill H (# 68) on :

I've been thinking that too. Will get my cheque book out.

Posted by Traveller (# 1943) on :

quote:
Originally posted by jedijudy:
Barring any difficulties, I will be there.
Probably crying my eyes out, but then, most of you know my fluffy bunniness.
Daughter-Unit will be with me, too.

JJ, there are MW reports of the funerals of both Miss Molly and Gambit, whose passing have been much talked about in the last few hours. If you do manage to get to Erin's funeral, can you keep up the series so Shipmates who can't get there (but would have loved to) get a feel for the service?

Posted by Think² (# 1984) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Chorister:
As the Ship was what Erin fought for so passionately, I agree that a donation to that cause would be most appropriate.
I'll make it snappy.

Donation made - I note that if you donate by paypal you can send a message to the ship with the donation, which allows you to say that it is in memory of Erin.

Posted by Eutychus (# 3081) on :

When I heard the news, I had just been making arrangements to attend the funeral of a close friend's mother, which is today. I never met the mother in question, and there's going to be quite a bit of cognitive dissonance for me in attending the funeral of someone I never knew almost simultaneously with the passing of someone I never met but felt I knew quite well.

A report would be really welcome, and I hope the Ship can be suitably represented.

Posted by TonyK (# 35) on :

My second reaction (after the 'Dear God, No!' bit) was to look at the fares to JAX. It would have been a literal flying visit - 48 hours or so there and back, but time wasn't a consideration. But the price was - in excess of £1200!!

A donation to the Organ Fund in her memory will follow in the near future.

jedijudy - if you do get there, and can manage it through the tears, a report on the service would be really welcomed! Perhaps keep a copy of the service sheet if there is one - someone on the Ship should be able to get a version online where we could all see it.

I'll check the time differences and try to spend some quiet time during the funeral itself... [Votive]

Yours aye ... TonyK

Posted by Moo (# 107) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Tortuf:
Erin appreciated her privacy.

Why, I have no idea. She was, and is, loved by many.

I joined the ship about a year after the Hurricane Joanne episode. Shortly after I joined someone suggested to Erin that she post a picture of herself. She replied that Joanne lived not far from her; she was afraid to have Joanne know what she looked like. (I gather that Joanne had made death threats.)

I don't know whether she had any reasons for guarding her privacy besides a desire not to be harassed by people she had irritated.

Moo

Posted by Ancient Mariner (# 4) on :

I have encouraged Simon to go to the funeral for all of us.

I remain astonished and humbled that such a flawed genius stumbled into our 'virtual' world all those years ago and... understood...

Posted by PeteC (# 10422) on :

The Jedi is bringing her light sabre too.

I won't be able to have quiet time during the funeral, as I will be working at the school with my little non-readers. But when I finally get home, I will light a candle and say the Rosary, all the while praying for Erin.

Posted by Jengie Jon (# 273) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Ancient Mariner:
I have encouraged Simon to go to the funeral for all of us.

I remain astonished and humbled that such a flawed genius stumbled into our 'virtual' world all those years ago and... understood...

I have just made an extra donation to Ship of Fools via paypal, I have sent the message "for Simon's airfare". That way he knows he can legitimately use it for that. If others do that as well, it means we are sending him as our representative in a tangible way.

Jengie

Posted by Ferijen (# 4719) on :

What Jengie said, my order number ends 892.

Posted by sophs (# 2296) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Ancient Mariner:
I have encouraged Simon to go to the funeral for all of us.

Will be donating as soon as he with the money is back. Air fare fund or ship fund, it's up to the Captain to decide.

Posted by Ancient Mariner (# 4) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Jengie Jon:

quote:
Originally posted by Ancient Mariner:
I have encouraged Simon to go to the funeral for all of us.

I remain astonished and humbled that such a flawed genius stumbled into our 'virtual' world all those years ago and... understood...
I have just made an extra donation to Ship of Fools via paypal, I have sent the message "for Simon's airfare". That way he knows he can legitimately use it for that. If others do that as well, it means we are sending him as our representative in a tangible way.

Jengie

That's a great gesture, Jengie. Thanks to you and others who have done the same thing.

Posted by Rossweisse (# 2349) on :

I donated to the Erin Fund via credit card before reading this thread, but my order ends in 529, and Simon's airfare would be a good way to spend it if he so chooses.

Posted by Laura (# 10) on :

quote:
Originally posted by RooK:
I'll email her.

I have Presleyterian's work number/email and will contact her as well.

Posted by Autenrieth Road (# 10509) on :

I've donated just now to the Erin Fund, and then separately to the Ship. The donation to the Ship is meant for Simon's airfare/expenses, but I was expecting it to give me a place to note that, and it didn't. So here's reporting what it's for. I didn't note down my order number, but my initials are S.P. (I think you guys can see my name on the donation side.) PM me if you need more info to identify it with.

[ETA: oh, wait, look, here's the confirming email. The Floating Fund reference number ends in 728.]

[ 05. January 2011, 14:32: Message edited by: Autenrieth Road ]

Posted by Amanda B. Reckondwythe (# 5521) on :

I'm contemplating attending the funeral. What airport are those of you who are going intending to fly into? It seems to me that Tallahassee is the closest.

Has anyone booked a hotel in Tallahassee or arranged for a car rental, and would be willing to take in old Miss Amanda?

Posted by PeteC (# 10422) on :

I have just made a PayPal donation to offset Simon's airfare. I wish I could have given more.

Posted by Pigwidgeon (# 10192) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Amanda B. Reckondwythe:
I'm contemplating attending the funeral.

I'm so glad the Arizona group will be represented. Please send my regards.
[Tear]

Posted by Think² (# 1984) on :

I had a look at fly.com, you can get a return ticket leaving tomorrow from Heathrow to Talihassie from about £400 - but the return flight is not till 20th Jan. If you try to go tomorrow and get a back on Friday or Saturday it looks like it would be cheaper to buy two return tickets than two single tickets. Comes out somewhere in region of £1500.

Posted by Laura (# 10) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Laura:

quote:
Originally posted by RooK:
I'll email her.
I have Presleyterian's work number/email and will contact her as well.

I've exchanged e-mails with her -- she knew, thanks to Mad Geo.

Posted by jedijudy (# 333) on :

Miss Amanda, JAX is the closest airport to the church. Here is a map.

There is a possibility that I could fetch you there. Do you have any flight times? (I'm starting to wonder if I should try to crash in Jax on Thursday, it would sure make things easier.)

I had hoped to look for my old Mystery Worship outline in order to make a report for the Ship! I'm glad that there are several of us on the same page.

Posted by ecumaniac (# 376) on :

quote:
Originally posted by PeteC:
I have just made a PayPal donation to offset Simon's airfare.

Me too. But with credit card. Order reference 2029328645

Posted by Think² (# 1984) on :

JAX seems to make flights more sane here KLM do flight tomorrow morning returning monday for £400.

[ 05. January 2011, 17:05: Message edited by: Think² ]

Posted by Ariel (# 58) on :

I'm happy for my contribution to be put towards Simon's air fare.

Posted by Ags (# 204) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Think²:
I had a look at fly.com, you can get a return ticket leaving tomorrow from Heathrow to Talihassie from about £400 - but the return flight is not till 20th Jan. If you try to go tomorrow and get a back on Friday or Saturday it looks like it would be cheaper to buy two return tickets than two single tickets. Comes out somewhere in region of £1500.

Please don't do that. Most airlines will automatically cancel your return flight if you don't show up for the outward journey.

eta - please use my donation anyway you see fit

[ 05. January 2011, 17:36: Message edited by: Ags ]

Posted by Belisarius (# 32) on :

Airfare Donation Reference is 1743079784.

Posted by Amanda B. Reckondwythe (# 5521) on :

quote:
Originally posted by jedijudy:
Miss Amanda, JAX is the closest airport to the church. . . . There is a possibility that I could fetch you there. Do you have any flight times? (I'm starting to wonder if I should try to crash in Jax on Thursday, it would sure make things easier.)

Yes, you're right. Flights from Phoenix are plentiful and reasonably priced. I think I'll book this afternoon.

Arriving Thursday evening makes much better sense, especially considering the time difference.

I see you've PMd me about this. Could you also PM me your phone number and we'll discuss the matter by phone?

I'll e-mail you the link to the MW reporting site.

Posted by Simon (# 1) on :

I am sorry (and Erin, please forgive me), but I've tried very hard today to make this fly, but I just won't be able to make it to the funeral on Friday, much as I would dearly love to be there. The main thing is the emotional cost of long and sudden travel, plus the funeral service, which I know would leave me shredded and exhausted for a few days, and I just have to be sharp for work commitments from the word go on Monday. So sadly this is not to be.

Thank you, everyone who so kindly offered to help with my air fare... how thoughtful and humbling is that? Thank you all *so* much. Your gifts made my decision much harder, and in fact turned it into a dilemma. But in the end I've had to decide against. A horrible decision to make.

If you've made a donation towards the air fare and would like it returned, please just PM me and I'll arrange a refund. It's very easy to do and absolutely fine to ask for since the need for the donations no longer exists. Thanks again.

Posted by Think² (# 1984) on :

Feel free to stick mine in the Erin fund - its OK Simon, you can only do what you can actually do.

Posted by comet (# 10353) on :

No problem, Simon. My decision was similar. You have to care for yourself first. My donation is for the general Ship expenses.

Posted by Simon (# 1) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Think²:
Feel free to stick mine in the Erin fund - its OK Simon, you can only do what you can actually do.

Thanks, and I know... but I'll still be kicking myself tomorrow morning at the time when I should have been shooting down a runway.

Thanks too comet. I think in the end the money will be much better used in ongoing Ship projects.

Posted by ecumaniac (# 376) on :

Look after yourself, Simon.

(And my donation can go to the Erin fund, or to help pay the Ship's electricity bill or whatever's needed)

Posted by PeteC (# 10422) on :

Further to my PM, if it is easier, please just put airfare donation in the General Fund

Posted by Autenrieth Road (# 10509) on :

My airfare donation can go in the Floating Fund, no problem. Or in the Erin Fund, if TPTB prefer.

Posted by Firenze (# 619) on :

I would be happy for my donation (ID 1743101201) to go towards defraying Judy's expenses in travelling and accommodation.

Otherwise, to the Erin fund.

Posted by Leaf (# 14169) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Simon:
I know... but I'll still be kicking myself tomorrow morning at the time when I should have been shooting down a runway.

As my aunt would say, "Don't 'should' on yourself!"

Anyone who thinks you haven't made a realistic assessment of your resources, and the demands on you, can go rusty farm implement themselves.

Not being able to attend in person means that you have solidarity with the rest of this community who aren't able to attend, who must make do with board posts and private thoughts and prayers.

Posted by Viola (# 20) on :

If either of the others going to represent the ship could use any assistance for their travel or accommodation expenses, they're more than welcome to my donation. Otherwise, add it to the rest of the Erin fund.

Sorry you won't be able to get there Simon, but it was a heck of a journey to make at short notice just as people expect you to start working for your living again.

Posted by Ariel (# 58) on :

Simon, we all fully appreciate your reasons - it's not an easy journey to make at short notice and thank you for trying. Don't worry about refunding the money, it was given freely so use it as you see fit.

Posted by Belisarius (# 32) on :

Please also use my donation to defray others' costs or for the Erin Fund.

[ 05. January 2011, 20:21: Message edited by: Belisarius ]

Posted by Auntie Doris (# 9433) on :

Is anyone going to arrange flowers or something from the Ship community?

Auntie Doris x

Posted by Wesley J (# 6075) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Auntie Doris:
Is anyone going to arrange flowers or something from the Ship community?

Auntie Doris x

I thought I read on one of these threads that we're asked to make donations to a charity of our choice instead? Can't find the post at the mo though, sorry.

Posted by Autenrieth Road (# 10509) on :

Yes, donations to charity instead of flowers are requested, in the OP of this thread.

Posted by Wesley J (# 6075) on :

First post of this very thread.

Posted by Ye Olde Motherboarde (# 54) on :

On my way to the funeral tomorrow. Thank you Lord for the air-miles and hotel and car discounts. Will be with JediJudy and AmandaBReckondwythe.

(nothing like last minute decisions) [Roll Eyes]

Posted by Viola (# 20) on :

That's great MB - As one of the 'originals' and a founder member of the BCB (I used to love reading what you'd all been up to overnight), you'll be another great ambassador for the ship along with Judy & Miss Amanda.

Posted by Jengie Jon (# 273) on :

Always intended to say that the money should either be used for the Ship or the Erin fund if not used for travelling.

Jengie

Posted by jedijudy (# 333) on :

Simon, I'm so sorry that you can't make it to Erin's funeral. I know that had to be a gut-wrenching decision, but it is certainly a logical one. We do not want you to get sick or exhausted. (Please stay healthy.)

It will be wonderful seeing Motherboard again, and meeting Miss Amanda for the first time. And we will have every other Shipmate with us in our hearts and thoughts.

Posted by Louise (# 30) on :

Please apply my donation to whoever's travel expenses or Erin fund as needed!
cheers,
L

Posted by tomb (# 174) on :

MB: glad you found a way to get there since we spoke today. Godspeed and bring back a *most detailed* Mystery Worshipper report. I expect reports on the building, the liturgy, the speakers, and the music. Get JJ to help you with the latter.

BTW: is what we spoke of today the sort of thing I can tell others?

Posted by Amanda B. Reckondwythe (# 5521) on :

quote:
Originally posted by tomb:
Godspeed and bring back a *most detailed* Mystery Worshipper report. I expect reports on the building, the liturgy, the speakers, and the music.

All four of us will collaborate on the report.

Posted by Janine (# 3337) on :

9-hour trip; 600 miles.

What time is the service? Any visitation/wake/viewing, anything like that, before the service?

I'm plotting. It might be do-able.

I always swore I'd keep an ear to the ground in case Erin ever slipped and said she'd attend a meet within my reach. Florida's not all that far away.

Oh, Lord.

Posted by comet (# 10353) on :

If possible, can any of you take a picture of a picture? I'd love to see her face

Posted by Amanda B. Reckondwythe (# 5521) on :

We'll do our best within the bounds of respecting the dignity of the occasion and the privacy of her family.

Posted by Gill H (# 68) on :

I will be attending another funeral on Friday - that of a retired priest who was a good friend - and so my prayers and grief will be for two lost friends at once.

Posted by Janine (# 3337) on :

Airfare for me is not bad at all, given no advance reservation. I'd need to rent if I drive it, and that looks really, really affordable. Toss in a hotel for the night, unless I want to just drive without enough sleep. Naaah, hotel is necessary...

A couple meals... fuel... It looks more and more possible; will work on it and decide soon.

Posted by Rev per Minute (# 69) on :

I'm amazed that Simon would even contemplate a weekend trip across the Atlantic - it shows the esteem in which Erin was held and, I am sure, the strength of his friendship with her that Simon considered it possible. The 'local' contingent (if anywhere between New York and Arizona can be considered local to Florida!) will provide a good Ship presence for the rest of us.

On that basis, will people be marking the time of the funeral? 1100 in Florida is, I think, 1600 GMT/UTC and 1700 CET - for our Australasian Shipmates it could be anywhere between 0000 and 0500 Saturday morning? Unfortunately, I'll be driving at 1600 Friday but will take the first opportunity for a quiet prayer.

Posted by Laura (# 10) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Simon:
If you've made a donation towards the air fare and would like it returned, please just PM me and I'll arrange a refund. It's very easy to do and absolutely fine to ask for since the need for the donations no longer exists. Thanks again.

No way I want it back -- keep it for Her fund.

Posted by Janine (# 3337) on :

Sometimes things just, against all odds, work out.

My work at the clinic is covered. I've got PTO and vacation time if I want to use it for missing time today and tomorrow. The car rental will be taken care of in a few minutes (grateful for my little-credit-that-could card).

The FG will never come with me to Shipmeets, but this, he'll join me for.

Lord agreeing, we'll be in JAX late tonight, hopefully to stay at the same hotel at the others, and we'll be at the funeral in the morning.

I only wish it were a Meet including Erin, not about her. [Frown]

Posted by Wesley J (# 6075) on :

That's fabulous, Janine! [Axe murder]

Posted by Gill H (# 68) on :

Hope you squeeze in a little time for a birthday drink for yourself (after the driving!)

It's great that you can go.

Posted by marmot (# 479) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Janine:
Sometimes things just, against all odds, work out.

My work at the clinic is covered. I've got PTO and vacation time if I want to use it for missing time today and tomorrow. The car rental will be taken care of in a few minutes (grateful for my little-credit-that-could card).

The FG will never come with me to Shipmeets, but this, he'll join me for.

Lord agreeing, we'll be in JAX late tonight, hopefully to stay at the same hotel at the others, and we'll be at the funeral in the morning.

I only wish it were a Meet including Erin, not about her.

Janine, I'm so glad that you can go and be with the others. You all be sure to take good care of each other while you're there. It'll be intense.

[ 06. January 2011, 19:32: Message edited by: marmot ]

Posted by Pants (# 999) on :

Janine, that's great. It's good to know that the Ship is being represented by a few who can support one another too. [Axe murder]

Posted by Simon (# 1) on :

Janine, so pleased to hear you'll be there with the others. Thanks for going the extra miles. Traveling mercies.

Posted by jedijudy (# 333) on :

So I'm in Daytona Beach getting a new tire. There's always something, isn't there? I'm glad we didn't wait until tomorrow to travel.

Posted by Lynn MagdalenCollege (# 10651) on :

Janine, it's fantastic that you can go (and the FG too - wow!) - I'm so glad.

jedijudy, wise of you to drive Thursday and not Friday - sorry about the tire but grateful you can mend or replace it.

Travel mercies on all of you making the journey to pay Ship's respects to Erin as she makes her journey -- *blessings*

Posted by maleveque (# 132) on :

ebeth and I are planning a DC-area wake for Friday evening. Should I post details here or in AS?
- Anne L.

Posted by OliviaG (# 9881) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Amanda B. Reckondwythe:
We'll do our best within the bounds of respecting the dignity of the occasion and the privacy of her family.

Thank you and a bunch of \0/s to those who will be representing The Ship at Erin's funeral. I wish you safe travels and a surprisingly small repair bill for jedijudy.

Would it be undignified to carry something small that indicates that each of you represents around 4000 (or 3000 if FG wants to be in on it) mourners of diverse faiths from around the world? OliviaG

Posted by jedijudy (# 333) on :

The good news is, the new tire price wasn't horrible! [Smile]

The other good news is, the tire didn't explode, or cause the car to go out of control.

Many thanks to everyone for the traveling prayers. They were very effective!

Motherboard, Miss Amanda, Daughter-Unit and I had a wonderful time visiting over a meal, sharing stories and good memories.

[ETA necessary word]

[ 07. January 2011, 02:19: Message edited by: jedijudy ]

Posted by Kelly Alves (# 2522) on :

God bless you, Judy!

Posted by Banner Lady (# 10505) on :

It's Friday January 7, and the last day of Christmas. My orthodoxen friends will be celebrating Christmas today.

It feels good that Erin is being farewelled from this earthly life on a day when the oldest tribe of Christians is celebrating the birth of her Saviour. Dunno why, but it just seems...right.

Posted by LQ (# 11596) on :

Sorry I won't be able to join those attending tomorrow - I'm on the right coast but the wrong end of it. I'll be thinking of you all throughout the day.

quote:
Originally posted by Simon:
the church website

Eee, pseudo-Rwandans! Erin never struck me as the type: one last joke from beyond the grave?

Posted by tomb (# 174) on :

quote:
Originally posted by jedijudy:
The good news is, the new tire price wasn't horrible! The other good news is, the tire didn't explode, or cause the car to go out of control.

Many thanks to everyone for the traveling prayers. They were very effective!

Motherboard, Miss Amanda, Daughter-Unit and I had a wonderful time visiting over a meal, sharing stories and good memories.

[ETA necessary word]

I am so glad you guys are together and will be attending the memorial service.

If it's anything like Miss Molly's funeral that Marmot & I attended, you will actually be conscious of the Shipmates who couldn't attend but are there most powerfully in spirit.

An unexpected death is a bitter thing. However, I have absolutely no doubt that Erin will arrive at that great Ship in the Sky and immediately begin working to set it to rights. Lazy angels will be put to work arranging the deck chairs properly, and the rest of the Host of Angels will be instructed in the proper way to praise God.

Those of us who paddle and bail in the leaky scows below will take hope and comfort that our heavenly reward with be shipshape and Bristol fashion when we finally arrive, thanks to Erin.

Posted by duchess (# 2764) on :

Our Erin.

Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :

quote:
you will actually be conscious of the Shipmates who couldn't attend but are there most powerfully in spirit.

That is a very powerful feeling too. Downunder, we held an Australia/NZ service over the net the night before the ordination of Mad Tea Woman and Nunc. This was obviously not an ordination but prayers and songs which we each read on our own computers.

I found it extremely moving and it made me weep. I could feel the prayers of the others as I said them myself.

Next day we all reported similar experiences.

So be prepared for the solidarity we will express in spirit while you are there. Thank you all for being there for all of us.

Posted by Jengie Jon (# 273) on :

quote:
Originally posted by maleveque:
ebeth and I are planning a DC-area wake for Friday evening. Should I post details here or in AS?
- Anne L.

Anne L

either will do.

Cafe wake is on here but other meets in All Saints.

Jengie

Posted by Tubbs (# 440) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Jengie Jon:

quote:
Originally posted by maleveque:
ebeth and I are planning a DC-area wake for Friday evening. Should I post details here or in AS?
- Anne L.
Anne L

either will do.

Cafe wake is on here but other meets in All Saints.

Jengie

All Saints is the best place. It's where most people will look for meets.

Tubbs

Posted by Moo (# 107) on :

Campbellite and I will have a mini-meet in Roanoke today to remember Erin.

We plan to meet at eleven.

Moo

Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Moo:
Campbellite and I will have a mini-meet in Roanoke today to remember Erin.

We plan to meet at eleven.

Moo

Unfortunately for those of us in Eastern Australia, the funeral is at 3:00 am.

Posted by Ye Olde Motherboarde (# 54) on :

quote:
Originally posted by tomb:
MB: glad you found a way to get there since we spoke today. Godspeed and bring back a *most detailed* Mystery Worshipper report. I expect reports on the building, the liturgy, the speakers, and the music. Get JJ to help you with the latter.

BTW: is what we spoke of today the sort of thing I can tell others?

Post away, Tomb!
[Biased]

Posted by Malin (# 11769) on :

So glad people can make it there, I hope her family and friends realise how many of us would have loved to be there if we could.

(I would have been the one at the back trying frantically to quieten a 2 year old while juggling a hefty baby.)

Posted by jedijudy (# 333) on :

We are in the church.
Sitting left to right:
Motherboard, FG, Janine, Miss Amanda, me, Daughter-Unit. [Votive]

You are with us in our hearts.

Posted by kingsfold (# 1726) on :

[Votive]

Posted by jedijudy (# 333) on :

Surprise! Preslyterian is here!
She walked up to me when the service ended!

[ 07. January 2011, 16:33: Message edited by: jedijudy ]

Posted by RuthW (# 13) on :

Say hi to her for me!

Posted by Viola (# 20) on :

quote:
Originally posted by jedijudy:
Surprise! Preslyterian is here!
She walked up to me when the service ended!

How fantastic!

Tell us all about the whole thing when you can.

You were all (well - all the ones we knew about) remembered and appreciated in the Ship Cafe wake.

Posted by Simon (# 1) on :

The Magnificent Seven. Thanks all of you for making the journey. Looking forward to hearing about the service.

Posted by Laura (# 10) on :

quote:
Originally posted by jedijudy:
Surprise! Preslyterian is here!
She walked up to me when the service ended!

Shetod me she might go but didn't want to say anything in case it didn't work out -- so glad she made it.

Posted by Mamacita (# 3659) on :

I am so touched by the number of shipmates who were able to attend Erin's funeral and by the efforts they made to get there. God bless you all and give you safe travels home.

I think I had good timing here.

Posted by Eutychus (# 3081) on :

Somebody in the Café mentioned that on Simon Mayo's show on BBC Radio 2 at 3.55pm local time (ie 5 minutes before the start of the funeral) they played See you later alligator. Can anyone get to the bottom of that?

Posted by Tom Day (# 3630) on :

It was on Steve Wright's show.The set list for Steve Wrights show is here I was almost not surprised if it had of been on Simon Mayo's show as he is a Greenbelter and a Christian and I am sure has heard of the ship.

Posted by Arrietty (# 45) on :

It was me who mentioned it - and it was actually on the Steve Wright show, which comes just before the Simon Mayo show.

It can be heard for the next 7 days on the i-player (for those in the UK, anyway) at 1 h 54 m in.

There wasn't any explanation of why it was on - it wasn't a request - I think it was just a happy or holy coincidence.

It gave me a smile along with a [Frown]

anyway!

Posted by Eutychus (# 3081) on :

Thanks for the link!

Posted by Spike (# 36) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Tom Day:
It was on Steve Wright's show.The set list for Steve Wrights show is here I was almost not surprised if it had of been on Simon Mayo's show as he is a Greenbelter and a Christian and I am sure has heard of the ship.

It's perfectly feasible that he had a quiet word with Steve Wright and asked him to play the song at the appropriate time.

Posted by Arrietty (# 45) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Spike:
It's perfectly feasible that he had a quiet word with Steve Wright and asked him to play the song at the appropriate time.

Or even that someone involved in the show is a Ship member!

Posted by Ye Olde Motherboarde (# 54) on :

RE: the funeral.

It was well attended by over 250 people. From the ship were myself, Amanda B Reckondwythe, JediJudy and the Daughter Unit, Janine and the FG, and the surprise of the day, Presleyterian!
It was an Anglican service, a Baptist preacher and a person from her office gave a eulogy, her stepmother, Amanda B. and I all spoke.
What I told the people was that people all over the world loved Erin, and she loved you back. Her work told us how 'no nonsense' she was, and don't we know that! [Smile]

You have seen the photo, so now you know what she looks like, at last.
Her family is just precious and is totally shocked. Her nieces and nephews were devastated about "Auntie Erin". I talked with so many friends and relatives, (as did Jedi, Janine and Amanda). It was a day I won't forget at all.

Posted by maleveque (# 132) on :

Thank you, Motherboard. Maybe we'll call you from the DC Wake tonight.
- Anne L.

Posted by Pants (# 999) on :

Thank you Motherboard.

Posted by Amazing Grace (# 95) on :

Thanks for the report, MoBo. So glad all y'all were able to be there.

Posted by Campbellite (# 1202) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Moo:
Campbellite and I will have a mini-meet in Roanoke today to remember Erin.

We plan to meet at eleven.

Moo

Moo brought the BCP.
I brought the Green and Blacks Maya Gold.

[Votive]

Posted by Ancient Mariner (# 4) on :

Way to go, MoBo. So glad you had the chance to speak on our behalf and tell family and friends how much she was loved.

[Tear]

Posted by Robert Armin (# 182) on :

MotherBoarde - you've reduced me to tears, which I needed. Thank you for being there, and thank you for saying those words. Can't see the keys too well, so apologies fr typos.

Posted by Simon (# 1) on :

Presleyterian has very kindly emailed me a PDF of the service leaflet... find it here.

She writes: It was a service attended by 200+ people in a hardware store. Really. The congregation bought the property after it left the Episcopal Church. Actually, the setting was part of what I found most touching: It was a house of worship and a purveyor of rusty farm implements.

[ 08. January 2011, 12:22: Message edited by: Simon ]

Posted by Arrietty (# 45) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Simon:
Presleyterian writes:

<snip>

Actually, the setting was part of what I found most touching: It was a house of worship and a purveyor of rusty farm implements.

Wonderful!

Posted by QuietMBR (# 8845) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Simon:
Presleyterian has very kindly emailed me a PDF of the service leaflet...

Hmmm....will be singing two of the hymns/songs tomorrow morming and will think of Erin as I do.

Posted by Janine (# 3337) on :

Every time I sit down at the computer to slog out a detailed description of the funeral, Somebody (read that, FG) needs some help, some information, assistance regaining consciousness, clothing and coffee, something. (MoBo and Miss Amanda got a taste of that from the FG yesterday. You'll be trying to put together a post or email, and he'll just carry on his previous [usually unrelated] conversation with you. I think 11 years of football gave him a multipartite brain.)

There'll be a Mystery Worship report, of course, in due time, but I've some things to add from my own POV. (Anyone who doesn't like to read lots of quirky detail can just skip that post. [Smile]

)

We figure we've had roughly 6.5 hours of sleep in the last 48, so it might need to cook a bit before I let it out onto the screen.

Posted by TonyK (# 35) on :

Janine - of course we are waiting with bated breath, but take a break yourself. Sound like you need a good night's sleep!!

And thank you for being there representing us - I would so liked to have been able to attend!

Posted by Banner Lady (# 10505) on :

Thank you Presleyterian and Simon for putting the service sheet up. It did me a power of good reading that.

Posted by jedijudy (# 333) on :

Here are some pictures! [Tear]

Posted by Lesedi (# 5234) on :

Fabulous pics, JJ - many thanks for taking them and putting them up!! It's helpful to have faces to go with personas.

Posted by marmot (# 479) on :

JJ, the card is perfect.

Posted by Arrietty (# 45) on :

Thank you JJ, those are lovely pictures.

Posted by Wesley J (# 6075) on :

Thank you, guys, for representing all of us Shippies - and for being there in person, for Erin's family and friends.

[Votive]

Posted by Ariel (# 58) on :

Thank you JJ - that's so thoughtful of you.

Posted by OliviaG (# 9881) on :

jedijudy, thank you for providing the card and message - it is lovely. OliviaG

Posted by Jigsaw (# 11433) on :

Thank you all; so kind and thoughtful, and such respectful photos. Take care of yourselves now- you must be tired, but know how much we appreciate what you did.

Posted by Janine (# 3337) on :

quote:
Originally posted by OliviaG:
... Would it be undignified to carry something small that indicates that each of you represents around 4000... mourners of diverse faiths from around the world? OliviaG

Undoubtedly, as the dust settles, we'll think of a couple of lovely symbolic items we could have carried. I'll be cruising through an antique shop or flea market and spot the very thing, months from now, I'm sure.

I did carry something symbolic, with meaning for me, personally, if y'all will excuse me the long post it takes to explain it to you:

Well over a year ago, my daughter the Amazon-Valkyrie bought a birthday gift for me. She squirreled it away, early shopping being her habit. Wrapped it and hid it all this time, to bring it to light again in time for my birthday, Epiphany 2011.

Flash forward to about nine months ago. I was shopping for the 2010 CO/NM meet. I bought a very nice dress, even staid (by my usual gypsy standards), classic lines, saved from being just too dressy for me by its fabric: a very deep, dark, almost black blue denim.

Never did wear it. It was rescued from daughter-in-law's fundraising sale in December by the lingering idea that I might sometime need to go somewhere looking respectable. All a dark denim-inspired garment needs to set it off is an accent of just the right vibrant shade of golden yellow, or light harvest orange-gold, the same color as the traditional blue-jean stitching. I never did find the right thing.

Again flash forward, to the end of the year.

Erin passes away.

All the help she'd given me and all her presence interwoven into the Ship's Boards... Here I was only 600 miles away. How could I possibly manage the trip for the funeral? How could I not manage it?

Horrible strain on the budget, on the covering co-workers' goodwill -- I kept hammering at the details and worked it out, but even after I was sure it was all coming together, it still seemed a fragile arrangement, subject to crumbling even up to the final moment. So much could go wrong.

Now picture this:

Funeral's eve, January 6th, coordinating final nagging loose ends so I can please-Lord-get-on-the-road, resembling a headless barnyard fowl, frazzled, talking to myself... "9-hour drive, 'Jesus take the wheel' indeed... Lord help me... pack that dress... where are my shoes... FG's shoes..."

The Valkyrie has me slow down for a moment. She hands me my birthday present. So much on my mind with Erin's passing; I'd forgotten there was that gift for me. Heck, I'd forgotten for the moment that it was my birthday. Pretty package. Open the wrapping...

Inside I see a soft orange color, just the shade I'd been hoping to find in a scarf, a pin, a handbag -- something to accessorize the dark denim dress.

It is an alligator purse.

Posted by Banner Lady (# 10505) on :

[Hot and Hormonal]

Posted by Gill H (# 68) on :

The use of 'There is a Redeemer' is poignant, seeing that Keith Green also died far too young.

Posted by jedijudy (# 333) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Wesley J:
Thank you, guys, for representing all of us Shippies - and for being there in person, for Erin's family and friends.

I assure you, it was our honor to do so.

Posted by Simon (# 1) on :

jedijudy... thank you for the photos, and for giving us such good images of the shipmates, the Floridan sunshine, the sanctuary, the flowers, and especially the pictures of Erin. And thanks so much for the card, and what you wrote in it. We're all indebted to you. Glad you've returned home safely.

Janine... fab story about the alligator purse. And not forgetting your epic 9-hour, 600 mile drive. Thank you for putting that much road under your wheels to do Erin honor. It's greatly appreciated by everyone.

Posted by comet (# 10353) on :

I'm a tacky, horrible person but have to say this:

our Erin was hot.

not that it matters, of course. she was of course hot in the sense of her being a brilliant, blazing light in our world.

but she was a damn fine looking woman, too.

(I'll shut up now. Janine - love the purse story. there have been a large number of moments like that all over the world this week. it's really quite something. God is having a good time with us.)

Posted by Paddy O'Furniture (# 12953) on :

quote:
Originally posted by comet:
I'm a tacky, horrible person but have to say this:

our Erin was hot.

not that it matters, of course. she was of course hot in the sense of her being a brilliant, blazing light in our world.

but she was a damn fine looking woman, too.

(I'll shut up now. Janine - love the purse story. there have been a large number of moments like that all over the world this week. it's really quite something. God is having a good time with us.)

I'm glad you said it because I was thinking it. She was FINE looking.

Posted by luvanddaisies (# 5761) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Simon:
Presleyterian has very kindly emailed me a PDF of the service leaflet... find it here.

Thank you.

Posted by Janine (# 3337) on :

9 hours and 600 miles is a long trip, but not nearly the sacrifice it sounds like to folks in UK, Europe, other places without the long-stretched highways so common here. Glad I could go. Feel bereft and robbed, can only imagine the huge weight of mourning close friends and loved ones feel.

I also thought the choice of that Keith Green song, There is A Redeemer, was poignant, too, him also being a genius talent taken too young.

Posted by Rowen (# 1194) on :

I qm sitting at my kitchen tale, here in Australia. Church is over. I am eating a prawn sandwhich, reading all this, and crying into a kitchen towel.
Thankyou.

Posted by TomOfTarsus (# 3053) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Janine:
I also thought the choice of that Keith Green song, There is A Redeemer, was poignant, too, him also being a genius talent taken too young.

Awright, Janine, that did it for me... now I have to explain why I'm all dewey-eyed!

I haven't been able to comment much, but I'm glad you and the others could go. Blessings to you, and continued prayer for a wide circle of firends and family... so many lives touched.

Tom

Posted by Lynn MagdalenCollege (# 10651) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Simon:
Presleyterian has very kindly emailed me a PDF of the service leaflet... find it here.

She writes: It was a service attended by 200+ people in a hardware store. Really. The congregation bought the property after it left the Episcopal Church. Actually, the setting was part of what I found most touching: It was a house of worship and a purveyor of rusty farm implements.

Thank you for the service leaflet, Simon & Presleyterian. I am curious about the property - is it still multi-use? Looks like they're selling pre-fab housing units in the reception area! wow... my wonder and admiration for Erin increases. [Tear]

Posted by Lynn MagdalenCollege (# 10651) on :

quote:
Originally posted by jedijudy:
Here are some pictures!

Thank you so much. And Janine - an alligator purse?! Erin must be up in heaven just leaning back on her tail and roaring with glee-- wow!

Posted by Kelly Alves (# 2522) on :

Kiddo Erin. [Tear]

Posted by Amanda B. Reckondwythe (# 5521) on :

Here's the link to the MW report on Erin's memorial service.

In the photo are (left to right) Jedijudy, Daughter Unit, Janine, Mr Janine (hiding behind his wife) and Ye Olde Motherboarde.

Posted by Campbellite (# 1202) on :

Thank you, Miss Amanda.

Posted by dolphy (# 862) on :

My humble thanks to all who have written here and posted such wonderful photos....

What a wonderful tribute to a wonderful woman.

As for the song on Radio 2, I think you are correct in stating that someone knew about it....

xxxxx

Posted by Ancient Mariner (# 4) on :

JJ - thank you so much for your card, pics and captions and for representing us all at the funeral. It is really appreciated.

Posted by Robert Armin (# 182) on :

On Friday I went to the funeral of a 97 yr old woman. I didn't know her well, I was mainly going to support her daughter. During the service my mind was full of Erin. When the reading from John 14 included the phrase: "In my Father's house there are many mansions," I began to wonder, will Erin start reorganising them? One for rational discussion, one for silly creativity, and another for venting?

Posted by Janine (# 3337) on :

quote:
"... God shall wipe away all tears,
There’s no death, no pain, nor fears,
And they count not time by years,
For there is no night there..."

The Lamb is the light; no "dark night of the soul", no more, there. Nothing else to complain about.

What will it be like for Erin, having no one who desperately needs Rusty Farm Implement Therapy?

*********************************************

One thing I liked about the funeral was the way everyone who recited the Lord's Prayer did so from his or her own tradition, in the translation in which they learned it.

Posted by Lyda*Rose (# 4544) on :

Janine:

quote:
What will it be like for Erin, having no one who desperately needs Rusty Farm Implement Therapy?

She might have to work on the facial tics for a bit. [Biased]

[ 17. January 2011, 04:28: Message edited by: Lyda*Rose ]

Posted by Chorister (# 473) on :

I think she'll be allowed into Limbo (or Purgatory) to give everyone a prod, from time to time. They can get very lazy in there and not bother to work out their own salvation without a little 'encouragement'. I can't think of anyone better to do it.

Posted by Curious (# 93) on :

I haven't been on the Boards for a few days - and it's very odd to suddenly be brought up short in the realiusation that there is no more Gator [Tear]

. (oh how she would hate that 'smiley!)

Posted by Moo (# 107) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Curious:
I haven't been on the Boards for a few days - and it's very odd to suddenly be brought up short in the realiusation that there is no more Gator . (oh how she would hate that 'smiley!)

I don't think she would hate it. It was introduced at the time of Molly's death, and Erin may have been the one who found it. It represents genuine grief, as opposed to [Waterworks]

.

Moo

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