Who Will Say What at Your Funeral?

I have conducted over 100 funerals in the past 20 years of ministry. Each one has been unique, for obvious reasons. The funeral (or memorial service) typically serves as a final tribute to the deceased, and in some cases, their Lord. I readily admit that preaching funerals is not my favorite pastoral duty; however, I see it as an opportunity to point people to Jesus, something I love to do! The living testimony of the deceased determines how easy or difficult my task. I often have conversations with folks in my church who say, "Pastor, you better preach the gospel at my funeral!" Sounds like a mandate to me. So, that's what I do - preach the gospel.
North Carolina State women's basketball coach, Kay Yow, died last Saturday after a long battle with cancer. Many people could have spoken at Yow's funeral, but she chose to do it herself. That's right, she made a 25 minute video. What a powerful way for someone to share their living faith, and tell friends and family about a way to sorrow WITH HOPE. Here's my point...Who will say what at your funeral?