Funeral Homily for Mary Schrank

Readings: Wisdom 3:1–6, 9; Psalm 23; 2 Corinthians 4:14–5:1; John 6:51–59

There is a story told of a woman diagnosed with a terminal illness who called her pastor to her home to discuss her final wishes. She carefully outlined the hymns, the readings, the dress she wished to wear, and requested to be buried with her favorite Bible. But as the pastor prepared to leave, she said excitedly, "There’s one more thing. This is very important: I want to be buried with a fork in my right hand."

Puzzled, the pastor asked her why. She smiled and explained, "In all my years of attending church potlucks, whenever the main course was being cleared, someone would always lean over and say, 'Keep your fork.' It was my favorite part because I knew something better was coming—velvety chocolate cake or deep-dish apple pie; something wonderful and rich. I want people to see me in that casket with a fork in my hand and ask, 'What's with the fork?' Then I want you to tell them: Keep your fork... the best is yet to come."

That woman understood the heart of the Christian faith: she knew that in God, something better is always waiting.

We gather today in the quiet comfort of Holy Cross Parish—a place that Mary Schrank loved so dearly and served so faithfully—to celebrate a life rich in love, faith, and joy. At 79 years young, Mary returned home to the God who fashioned her with extraordinary care. While our hearts carry the heavy ache of grief, we do not mourn as those who have no hope. We gather anchored in the promises of the Scriptures she cherished, knowing with absolute certainty that for Mary, the best has now arrived.

The Book of Wisdom reminds us that "the souls of the just are in the hand of God, and no torment shall touch them" (Wisdom 3:1). To our human eyes, Mary’s passing is a sorrowful loss, but in the light of eternity, she is at peace. God tried her, found her worthy of Himself, and has received her like a sacrificial offering into His eternal rest.

A Faith Nourished at the Altar

Mary’s faith was not passive; it was the vibrant heartbeat of her entire life. As a dedicated member of the Legion of Mary, she walked under the gentle mantle of Our Lady, carrying a servant's heart into the world. And as an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion right here at Holy Cross, Mary held the sacred privilege of placing the Body of Christ into the open hands of her brothers and sisters.

How fitting it is, then, that we hear Jesus’ words from the Gospel of John: "I am the living bread that came down from heaven; whoever eats this bread will live forever" (John 6:51). Mary did not just distribute the Eucharist; she fed her soul on the Living Bread, allowing Christ’s life to transform her own into a daily offering of kindness, service, and love.

A Heart Full of Joy, Spirit, and Beauty

Saint Paul writes to the Corinthians that "if our earthly dwelling, a tent, should be destroyed, we have a building from God, a dwelling not made with hands, eternal in the heavens" (2 Cor 5:1). Mary lived her 79 years with a deep appreciation for the gift of this earthly life, embracing every single moment.

Together with her beloved husband, George, Mary spent summer after summer traveling, exploring, and enjoying the vast beauty of God's creation. She possessed a spirit-filled, infectious personality that lit up every room. She also had a rare, wonderful gift with children—never hesitating to get down on their level, playing, laughing, and making them feel endlessly cherished.

Her artistic heart was another reflection of the Creator’s grace. Whether she was knitting, sewing, restoring, designing, or creating, Mary’s hands were always at work making the world more beautiful. In many ways, Mary’s whole life was her greatest masterpiece—a tapestry woven with threads of deep devotion to her family, unwavering faith in her Lord, and a quiet, steadfast commitment to caring for anyone in need.

Resting in the Good Shepherd’s Care

In the words of Psalm 23, the Lord was truly Mary’s Shepherd. He led her beside restful waters, refreshed her soul, and guided her along right paths. Now, as she walks through the valley of the shadow of death, she fears no evil, for the Lord is with her. His rod and His staff give her eternal comfort.

George, and all of Mary’s family and friends: the sadness we feel today is real, but it is not the end of the story. St. Paul assures us that "the one who raised the Lord Jesus will raise us also with Jesus and place us with you in his presence" (2 Cor 4:14).

When the respected minister Bishop Warren Chandler lay on his deathbed, a friend leaned in and asked, "Bishop, tell me honestly—as you get closer to the end, are you afraid to cross over the river of death?" The old bishop smiled and replied, "Why should I be afraid? I belong to a Father who owns the land on both sides of the river."

We do not cross out of God's reach when we die. Whether in this life or the next, Mary remains on property owned entirely by her Heavenly Father. She has simply crossed to the other side of the river into the home prepared for her—a dwelling not made with hands, where every tear is wiped away and beauty never fades.

May the Blessed Virgin Mary, Queen of Heaven, lead her daughter Mary into the presence of the King. Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May she rest in peace. Amen.