My grandfather also had a funeral given by a ministerial servant (a dear friend of ours at the time). My grandfather was not ever, nor did he like, the witnesses. But someone had to give a funeral talk!
We made it all about my grandpa...it was the best funeral many people said they had ever been to. The touch on religion was very light, just a couple of scriptures, and the talk was given at a funeral home.
Those that wonder how Michael could have had a witness funeral when he obviously had left the religion and was not practicing, will want to know. This is why I share about my grandfather. As long as the funeral is not in a kingdom hall, a ministerial servant or elder can give a funeral talk. At least this is what I have seen, it may vary congregation to congregation. It just usually boils down to a preaching session, where they can count field service time! I am not sure however, if a disfellowshipped person can have such a talk at their funeral. I think so...but I am not positive. Loyal JW's however of the rank and file, would not be present at a funeral for a disfellowshipped person as attending the funeral would be showing you are giving honor to the deceased. It doesn't matter if the rest of the grieving are your close friends in the congregation, a loyal jw would not attend.
Thank you for sharing Purps...many people were curious. This was done no doubt for his mother. I am curious to know if these were his wishes or if it is a case of just pleasing her. Every JW wants to believe that Jehovah will resurrect their beloved now that they have died and paid sin's wages.
