Thursday, July 9, 2009

Funeral: July 6th, 2009














Hello family and friends,

The funeral was simply beautiful. Whether you were able to attend or not, we felt your spirit, support, and love.

The meet and greet was nice. Many reunions occurred for us all. It was so wonderful to see family and friends. Some people traveled very long distances to attend, and it warmed our hearts to see them. (In many cases, it had been 5-10 years since we had seen some of those who attended the services.)

One of Paul's closest friends from Huntington Beach, Richard Astle, played beautiful prelude music on the organ as the family moved into the chapel.

The funeral services program included:

Presiding: Bishop Reber

Conducting: Bishop Reber

Organist: Richard Astle

Chorister: Blair Adams

Opening Hymn: How Great Thou Art #86

Opening Prayer: Jared Bingham

Eulogy: J. Francis Valerga

Speaker: Jaime Bingham Brock

Musical Number: Jesse Bingham, Tammy Bingham, Josh Bingham "Families Can Be Together Forever"

Speaker: Bo Bingham

Speaker: Josh Bingham

Final Remarks: Bishop Reber

Closing Hymn: Abide with me #166

Closing Prayer: Jesse Bingham

During Jaime and Josh's talk, one of Paul's favorite scriptures was read, Alma 37:6. It talks about how small and simple things can bring about great things. At the end of Josh's talk, he passed along a challenge to those in the audience, and now he is passing it along to all those who read this blog: Before this Sunday (July 12), perform one small or simple thing to make another person happy. It can be a close relative, or someone you hardly know. After doing this small act, think of Paul and his example of bringing happiness and love to others, often by very small acts of kindness and love.

After the services, we drove over to the Mesquite City Cemetery, and our wonderful brother, Jacob "Shakey" Bingham, dedicated Paul's grave. The graveside ceremonies were so peaceful and tender. Some family members visibly had a tough time at the grave, but surrounding friends and family supported those in need in comfort.

We then drive back to the Stake Center (Church) to enjoy an absolutely wonderful luncheon that was put together by the Relief Society of the local congregation that Paul and Barbara attended. At this luncheon, a beautiful group of BYU football items were on display to honor Paul's love of BYU football. The food was delicious and a welcome relief to a long morning/day to the family and friends.

The family wishes to thank everyone for their love and support during this tough time. For us, the hardest times are ahead of us...so, stay close and check in with us when you can. Your continued prayers and support are greatly needed and appreciated.

5 comments:

  1. My family has been thinking about all of you. Seeing these pictures brings back so many memories for me. I'm so sorry for your loss and wish I could have been nearby. Lots of love coming from HB.
    Kimberly Suttles Braithwaite

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  2. Thanks Josh for making such a beautiful blog. It really helped us stay connected even though distance separated us.
    Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
    With love,
    The Green Family

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  3. Barb, your whole family showed the world what a wonderful mom & dad you and Paul were to have raised such fine beautiful children. I'm sure you and Paul are proud.

    Love Tom

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  4. I have only known Paul & Barbara's family since I married Lindy Orgill's widow Karen 15 years ago. Nevertheless the Binghams have had a positive impact on me. I appreciated learning more about them. Karen and I expect that the message of love that was the theme of Paul's funeral will remain with all who were privileged to be present.

    Kent Lundquist

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  5. Seeing pictures of the Bingham family brings back so many great memories. Paul gave me my first driving lessons on the sand dunes of Hurricane, Utah! What a wonderful man and a wonderful family. I wish we could have attended the funeral and participated in the reunion.
    My prayers are with you,

    Sally Jackson (Stokes)

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