larry's funeral

Larry Norman's funeral in Salem, Oregon...

"a quick description from someone who was there:

What a gathering! Perhaps 500 (?) of us poured into a church in Salem this morning to pay our respects to Larry. As we entered we were handed 'circus programs' (instead of a boring pamphlet) that read: Larry Norman Presents: A Going Away Party.

It was a gathering of friends, family and fans alike. As people caught up with one another organ music filled the air. Then, all of a sudden: SCREEEEEEETCH! It was the sound of a record player needle ripping across vinyl.

'I ain't knocking the hymns,
Just give me a song that has a beat.
I ain't knocking the hymns,
Just give me a song that moves my feet.
I don't like none of those funeral marches
I ain't dead yet!'

What followed was a wonderful montage of music, photographs, and videos of Larry throughout his life. Friends and family spoke and there were a few performances. After it was all over we ate hot dogs, popcorn and Cracker Jacks! A party. Just like Larry wanted."

Comments

[Scott Williams]

what i will remember about the funeral was the incredible love and honesty. the service opened with a short piece by his mailman. and the entire service was about jesus, about heaven, about love.
there were no rock stars and no posturing.
it was an epic moment in time.

[Dan]

thanks Scott, I read your post on the funeral too. I liked your thots about what kind of a legacy I'm leaving...

[John Ramsden]

'The Tune' affected me in such a way that I performed it myself in an Australian band I was in for 14 years called 'Joint Heirs' during the 70's 80's and 90's. I went to every concert he ever did in Melbourne and would hang out each time to hear 'The Tune'. This story was obviously inspired by the Lord .....
....and if you really listen there is another tune you can hear. But you have to listen quietly, and you have to listen every day.....
What a blessing and what a challenge,