In Memoriam of a Prophet -

Upon the passing of President Gordon B. Hinckley our family wants to express our gratitude for the service that President Hinckley gave to all people throughout the world. We are grateful for his optimism, engaging humor and his inspired counsel. Our family knows that President Hinckley served as a prophet of God and that as such he spoke inspired words of wisdom, counsel and guidance. We know that our Father in Heaven and our Savior, Jesus Christ, guide and conduct the affairs of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints through prophets on the earth today. We are grateful for the life of service that was shared by President Hinckley and we can only hope to 'keep pace' with his example.

Our hearts turn towards his family at this time; both saddened for the loss of a father and grandfather but also grateful that his reunion on the other side of the veil will be a joyous occasion surrounded by his dear wife, family and multitudes of friends. We know his daily influence will be greatly missed. We pray that we may all do as he so often requested, "Stand a little taller" and be a little better each day so that his words and wisdom will not be forgotten.

We know that this church is true. We know that it is guided by inspiration and revelation. We are convinced that the work of God will move forward; buoyed up by the life and works of this great man. We know God lives and that our Savior, Jesus Christ, is the only means by which we can return to live with our eternal family. We express gratitude for President Hinckley who not only spoke of these principles and lived them but inspired everyone to live better lives.

In Memoriam

President Gordon B. Hinckley has passed from this sphere;
Our prophet, our leader, our guide for twelve blessed years.
We rejoice in having come to know this dear friend...
And pray for him as another journey begins.

There he embraces the love of his life,
She stood beside him through joys and strife.
Dearest Marjorie – his beautiful bride;
Now she’ll eternally stand by his side.

Foremost is family – Mother’s and Father’s embrace;
Tears of joy stream down each noble face.
His dear parents – gratitude is spoken for all that they taught.
He reports he has kept the course – the fight has been fought!

The prophets throughout all time gather around
Raising to heaven a joyful sound.
Their dear brother has come. Faithful, Valiant and Strong -
With the noble and great, dear Prophet, is where you belong.

Finally, the welcome most endearing and fervent;
He hears the blessed words -
“Well done, thou good and faithful servant.”

He served, sacrificed and loved to the utmost degree;
Always heeding the Master‘s words, “Come Follow Me!”
Reminding us all to stand taller, stride forward and far –
Constantly reminding us of who we really are.

The wave of his cane will be missed as will his loving smile;
Yet, if we endure he will be missed for but a short while.
We have been offered the invitation to stand,
In the end, alongside this noble man.

So, let you and I remember today…
The covenants and promises that will guide our way.
I pray that we will again meet our dear friend…
When this mortal estate has come to its end.

- Andrea L. Ballard
January 28, 2008