Today, we gather to remember Janet Brown. She was a Mother, sister, grandmother, aunt, niece and friend. What, exactly is a memory and how does it impact life for the living?

The Dictionary defines a memory as “an impression of someone or something” in the past. This describes Janet as she relates to our own lives. We already have a picture in our minds that pops up as soon as we hear her name. To some it may be an image of her smile. To others it may be the sound of her laugh. That is the beauty of remembrance. We each get to remember her exactly as we’d most like to.

The process of creating a memory is very scientific, and yet it is also emotional. First, we must pick up something with our senses. Here, perhaps a huge smile comes to mind. If this experience is powerful enough, important enough, it moves from our short-term memory to our long-term memory.

Through repetition, this memory becomes stored, a permanent fixture in our minds. Every time you’ve thought of her or heard about her since she died has helped solidify her memory in your minds. This is important because memory allows us to continue to know someone after they have passed away. Through conversations with friends and family, recalling what she was like and how she impacted your life. We all stand here today because Janet was important enough to keep thinking of.

People cannot function and move forward without memories. We cannot function and move forward in life without our memories.

Life is one big celebration. Today is a day for celebration as we remember the life of Janet. A life full of moments worthy of a second thought. Cheer for the way she made us feel and smile. Celebrate her energetic and adventurous spirit in the face of adversity and the optimism she carried throughout life. Cherish the love she shared and share that love with those who mean the most to you. Effect change in the world, just as she did. Make this world a better place because you were here. Be brave, loyal and caring just like she was to her closest family and friends. Radiate happiness in every way you can. Share joy with others so that it may be spread.

Janet took great pride in her family, cherishing every moment spent with her daughters, Lori Faulk and Tracy Coker, and her beloved grandchildren, including Hannah Faulk, Hailie Greninger, Ashley Murray, Jarrett Coker, Josh Faucett, Brent Faucett Jr., Austin Faucett, and Jeremy Keltner. She also deeply valued her relationships with her sisters, Barbara Babyak and Patti Anderson, and her brother-in-law, Gordon Babyak, as well as her son-in-laws, Dale Coker and Bob Faulk. Janet’s love extended further to her many nieces, nephews, and great-grandchildren, all of whom will remember her with fondness and gratitude

Janet was preceded in death by: Walter Sleeth, Hope Sleeth, Brent Faucett, Tyler Faucett

Today, thank Janet for the memories and years of friendship she gave to you. Embark upon your own epic journey as she did so many times over the years.

Try not to mourn, she would not want us all sad and crying as we talk about her life. Let’s be glad we got to be a part of her life and she got to be a part of ours. Let’s be thankful for the time we had and the memories we carry. Let’s be excited about our futures and how she played a hand in them.

Psalm 23

A PSALM OF DAVID.

1 The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.

Prayer

Lord God, during this time of loss and grief, we turn to You for strength and healing. We thank You for the life of Janet, for the joy and love they brought into our lives. As we say goodbye, we ask for Your grace to guide us through the days ahead, to give us the strength to face each new day without Janet by our side. May Your healing touch bring comfort and peace to our weary hearts. Amen.