A Blessing for those who have passed, and those who remain

For those who have passed:

May you go in peace,
may you go in the hope of glory and resurrection.
May you go surrounded by family and friends
and in the knowledge that you were so, so loved.
May you remember that your time is in God’s hands,
as you go to dwell in God’s house forever. 
As you fly away,
May you fly with the joy of finally arriving home,
finally free of pain and suffering.

May you remember this life lived:

(this part would be adjusted for the particular person who passed)
Every time you icen lepp cookies and eat M&Ms,
with each bowling match, 
game of pool, quoits, or 10 penny,
any time you listen to Hank Williams or watch the Lone Ranger,
and as you cheer on the Phillies.

For those who remain:

May God wrap His arms of healing around you
as you weep and mourn this loss.
May you take the time necessary
to remember, to tell stories, and to grieve.
May you be patient with yourself 
as pain reveals itself
in random moments and unexpected places.
May you celebrate a life well lived
and rejoice in the assurance of eternal life.
And may you pick up the pieces,
keep moving forward,
and remember that your loved one
continues to live in you.