I recently served a family at my funeral home, Jurek-Park Slope, who rented a horse and carriage for their mother’s funeral. It was the first time in all my years in business that one of my families requested this special touch. The woman’s daughter told me that her mom had always wanted this unique tribute, a final farewell that embodied her love for elegance and tradition. The horse and carriage made its way around the woman’s Red Hook neighborhood for almost an hour, drawing smiles and nostalgic reflections from passersby. It was a heartwarming sight that encapsulated the essence of a life well-lived. I can still hear the clomping of the horse’s hooves on the asphalt pavement, a rhythmic reminder of the grace and beauty of this moment, and see the neighbors who came outside on a cold day in the middle of winter to witness the impressive sight, some even pulling on their coats and scarves to lend their support. The air was crisp, adding a serene stillness that contrasted with the warm memories shared. And we were extra lucky as the traffic was light that day, allowing the procession to move smoothly, enhancing the solemn yet uplifting ambiance that everyone felt as they paid their respects.
The family was not one of means, yet they understood the value of honoring their mother’s life as she wished, and they made sure it happened with heartfelt dedication. Their determination to fulfill their mother’s wish was truly inspiring, showcasing how love and respect could transcend material limitations. When I spoke with her later, she told me that fulfilling her mother’s wish gave her tremendous peace and an overwhelming sense of connection to her past. This funeral, steeped in tradition and filled with laughter and tears, reminded me that all is not lost in funeral service: many people still value the old ways, cherishing the rituals that bind generations and create lasting memories that honor lives well lived.
The Morte Girls 