A week ago at Kirkwood Baptist Church I attended the most moving, uplifting and joyous Memorial Service I have ever had the honor to attend. The O'Neill family sent CJ on her journey in a wonderful way; friends, coworkers, children, grands, employees, classmates, and soulmates all gathered to honor Carolyn, aka CJ, aka Red, aka that cute redhead and likely more monikers. The church was not 100% full, but with a quick estimate as I looked around, I am sure there were no fewer than 100 people there, and I'm thinking likely more than that. The number doesn't matter, it was a beautiful gathering.
Rev. Dr. Vandagriff is an amazing young minister who has become a family friend as well as the family's minister. His sense of humor is so engaging, not likely what you thought I would say I'm sure. But he showed us the joy of CJ's life even as we mourned her passing. The announcement had said that Cardinal's garb would be appropriate; my estimate is that at least half the attendees wore some sort of Cardinal's fan gear. As you will see below on the program, we even sang a rousing rendition of "Take me out to the Ballgame" - along with other hymns. The Cards had won the game the evening before and we agreed it was in CJ's honor!
I needn't go on and on, I entreat you to watch the video of the service, you will no doubt share my joy. Here is the YouTube link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2C5NKjAKmRA
