[Joanne not only rooted for the Steelers, but she also had a “Steel Curtain” faith in the many ways she loved her family and friends, served through her church, and put up a tenacious battle with cancer over the past several years. Pictured above is Joanne front and center. She always made awesome tailgate chili! Joanne was married to my cousin, Gene, far right. I am standing in the back right of the photo. Below is the prayer I offered at her funeral service which was held at Second Presbyterian Church, Oil City, PA.]
God of love, surround all of us as we gather to give you thanks for the life of Joanne McDowell. Even as we shrink before the mystery of life and death, help us to see the light of eternity. Be with us during this time of awesome wonder and gratitude as we reflect upon the many ways that Joanne has touched each of our lives.
We are grateful for the many signs of your presence in the midst of our grief and loss. Thank you for reminding us of so many special memories we had with Joanne. Thank you for all of the ways that she made a difference in people’s lives through her teaching career. Thank you for how she expressed her faith by serving others through the ministries of her church. Thank you for her love of her family and friends. And thank you O God, for how she lived her life so joyfully even as she battled with cancer these past several years.
O God, our hearts are filled with sorrow but they are also filled with great love and gratitude as we remember how Joanne has blessed us in so many different ways. As we walk through this valley of the shadow of death, replace our fear with trust, our grief with hope, and our sorrow with the promise of resurrection. Thank you that there is nothing that can ever separate us from your great love in Christ Jesus our Lord, not even death, for you are our steel curtain. In the name of Christ, we pray. Amen.
Beautiful prayer, Robert.
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