12 Comments
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Lynn Ingham's avatar

We write so much about birth and so little about death. This is a very memorable piece. A memorable man. A memorable family. A beautiful morning read. A nod to the Irish Americans ... we do funerals and memorials well.

James Finn Garner's avatar

Very glad you liked it. Hello, Montana. There's no one way to grieve, so why not do it on your own terms? I was very heartened to see the extended family showing so much grace and support, which isn't always the case with people.

Austin Tichenor's avatar

We’re burying Dee’s mom next Friday and hope it’s even close to what you described.

James Finn Garner's avatar

My heart goes out to you both. We'd better get used to this type of thing.

Austin Tichenor's avatar

Thanks, buddy. She was the last of our parents to go.

Lynn Ingham's avatar

Hello back! I'll finally be starting my own Substack column this summer. I've had a placeholder for a year while I concentrated on finishing my first novel, and now I'll have some time to focus on this. I'm loving the content I find here and the possibility of community. I really did love your description of that funeral and the families. So vivid and real.

James Finn Garner's avatar

Welcome aboard and good luck!

Michael Gerber's avatar

This is a great great piece. Ave atque vale to him, and thanks to you, JFG.

James Finn Garner's avatar

Thanks, Mike. It was an idea that wouldn't leave my head, so those usually make good Substack posts.

Matt Thomas's avatar

My father passed in February. I love this. Great read!

James Finn Garner's avatar

Thank you. We are having some transitions in our house this summer as well, and if I am called for remarks, I'm certainly gonna write them down.

leslie Oversteyns's avatar

Great writing Jimo. Transitions are tough let me know how I can support?