Funeral Service
Audrey Olive Perkins
Music – “Friends for Life”
Introduction
We have just listened to the music “Friends for Life” which was featured as the opening song to the Barcelona Olympic Games. Audrey particularly liked this song and actually went out and purchased the CD for herself.
Good afternoon everyone. We have gathered here today to remember and celebrate the life of Audrey Olive Perkins. My name is Susan Bent and on behalf of Audrey’s family and my colleagues from John Allison Monkhouse I welcome everyone here today.
When we lose someone close to us, it can be a very sad time, but by remembering the happy times and reflecting on all that this person meant to us, will give us comfort and support at this sad time.
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I would like to extend an invitation to share your memories with the family at the end of the service when light refreshments will be served here at the chapel.
I would like to call forward, Michael, David, Paul, James, Alice, Bixing, Kirsty to come forward and light a candle in memory of their Nina. Kirsty will also light one for her sister Alisa who is in Hong Kong and cannot be here with us today. Also the great granchildren Holly, Abbey, Thomas, Hannah, Matilda and Cooper will light or have a candlet lit for them as a tribute to Audrey.
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It is often said that when we get older, we have had a good innings. This maybe comforting for some people but it does not necessarily make it easier to accept the loss of an aged relative. Older people are a very special part of our family tree. They provide a link to our past and they represent the history and survival of our family. They give a feeling of permanence in a changing world.
It is at this time we stop the rush of life, pause for awhile and reflect on the person and what their life represented. Today we celebrate Audrey’s life by looking back and remembering the times you spent with her. The laughter, joy, love and her friendship will stay with you forever.
I am now going to call on John Perkins, Audrey’s son to share with us today’s eulogy.
Thank you for sharing that wonderful insight of Audrey’s life.
When I sat with Audrey’s family last week they shared with me some memories. Audrey loved her cards particularly playing solo, she played lawn bowls and was an avid reader. She particularly liked reading Dick Frances mysteries. Sport was a favourite past time for her and she loved watching all aspects on the telev ision. Tennis, Cricket and her beloved Essendon Football team. She would always jointhe footy tipping competition at Central Park and sometimes topped with her selections.
Audrey took great interest in her family and always wanted to know what all the grandchildren were up to in their lives. She would always ask and take a great interest in the family news.
Audrey took interest in what was happening world affairs and was well travelled . She took great pride in her appearance. She was always immaculately dressed not to forget her beloved string of pearls.
One would say this fine lady was caring, generous, a good talker and able to speak her mind.
95 years of age is a wonderful innings and even though her body had given way due to her arthritis her mind was very alert.
Audrey passed away peacefully in her sleep on 16th May 2012.
Let us know take some reflection time to watch some slides of special times in Audrey’s life. Moments of love, fun, family and special occasions.
DVD and slide show.
(I will acknowledge the slide show when it finishes)
I would like to share the words of Charles Henry Brent:
You can shed tears that she is gone
Or you can smile because she has lived
You can close your eyes and pray that she’ll come back
Or you can open your eyes and see all that she has left
Your heart can be empty because you cannot see her
Or you can be full of love that you shared with her
You can turn your back on tomorrow and live for yesterday
Or you can be happy for tomorrow because of yesterday
You can remember her and ache that she is gone
Or you can cherish her memory and let her live on
You can cry and close your mind, be empty and turn back
Or you can do what Audrey would want you to do
Smile, open your eyes, live and go on.
Ladies and Gentleman, I ask that those who are able please stand whilst we say our final words:
Audrey Olive Perkins we remember your strength and courage, your support and how very proud you were of your entire family.
In grief at your death but in gratitude for your life and for the privilege of sharing it with you, we commit your body back to nature.
You will always be remembered for all you gave in your life and that will be forever valued.
Ladies and Gentleman we will conclude the service by listening to the song autumn leaves in Audrey’s memory.