Tonight, we see the images of some of our classmates.

If we are honest, there are some that we barely remember.

One by one – their pictures appear before our eyes.

Some we vaguely recall passing quickly in the hallway.

Others, more familiar, sat at a desk across the room.

 

Then, there it was – that special image of you!

Unmistakably you!       Tonight, I remember - and celebrate with you.

And your image is fresh and sharp.

It seems like just yesterday we parted ways. 

There was no one quite like you:

No face exactly like yours,

No one walked just like you, talked just like you,

Or even though just like you.

There will never be anyone quite like you – ever!

 

As your image is reflected in this place

Memories flash across the screen in our minds. 

The things we did together, the dreams we dreamed together,

The experiences we shared together,

The things that brought us close to each other,

These memories we will cherish in our hearts and keep forever.

 

Then we look around the room at faces present -

Faces of some we honestly don’t remember or else don’t recognize.

Forty years can bring a lot of changes – that’s certain!

Some classmates we barely passed in the hall or the parking lot

And other classmates were then, and always will be called “friend”.

 

But at this moment, and on this day, we honor you, our classmates who are gone!

Also, we take some time to visit with old friends

And to make new ones from those who were able to attend.

And perhaps we stop to turn the faded pages of our Yearbook.

Englewood High School, Jacksonville, Florida –

Class of 1969 - that was our class!

 

Whether present – or not – every classmate holds a special place.

Some are here tonight. Others live near or far away.  

And some not on the screen have also passed on.

Though we may be unaware - God is aware.

So, to all our classmates gone, we celebrate you, this moment, this night.

Though gone, you are still very much a part of us.

We remember - and forever honor you in our hearts!