We do not want you to be uninformed, brothers and sisters, concerning those who are asleep, so that you will not grieve like the rest, who have no hope.  For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, in the same way, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep.                                        1 Thessalonians 4:13-14

Father of mercies, as we gather today to remember the life of _______, we thank You for giving him to us, his family and friends, to know and to love as a companion for these precious years. 

In Your boundless compassion, console us as we mourn. Sustain us, O Lord, as we sorrow, not as those without hope, but in thankful remembrance of Your great goodness, and in the joyful expectation of eternal life through Your Son, Jesus Christ. 

Into your hands, O merciful Savior, we commend Your servant, a sheep of Your own fold, a son of Your own redeeming.  Receive him into the arms of Your mercy, into the blessed rest of everlasting peace, and into the glorious company of the saints in light.  Amen.