Brooke's Funeral

[MrsMush99]

Please post any information about the funeral here.

[christine2448]

Funeral services will held Wednesday in Vermont for 12-year-old Brooke Bennett. Her body was found last Thursday in a shallow grave not far from her uncle's home. On Tuesday hundreds came out to pay their respects.
Still in shock friends, family and strangers gathered at Union high school Tuesday for the wake of Brooke Bennett: the 12-year-old Vermont girl who was found dead one week after she went missing.
The people of Randolph, Vermont are expected to turn out Wednesday at the high school for Bennett's funeral - just as they did on the same night her body was found in a shallow grave - praying for answers in the wake of the gruesome crime.

LINK TO VIDEO AND TEXT STORY (http://www.necn.com/Boston/New-England/Community-prepares-for-funeral-of-Brooke-Bennett/1215567941.html)

[christine2448]

Bennett’s Funeral Today, Family Relative Faces Charges In Cullman

Hundreds of mourners are expected to attend today’s funeral for Brooke Bennett, 12, who was
found dead a week after she was reported missing.


Bennett’s funeral is scheduled to start at 10 a.m. CST.


http://www.nbc13.com/vtm/news/local/article/bennetts_funeral_today_family_relative_faces_charg es_in_cullman/26582/

[christine2448]

http://www.wptz.com/video/11306790/index.html
video of funeral

[MrsMush99]

Thank you Christine for posting this information. I feel it is so much easier then to wade through pages and pages of information through the general discussion threads.

[HarvestMoon]

Was that the two sisters who just passed each other in the front row with the little girl between them?

[bdmama]

that little girl that just spoke was MJ's daughter w/ Denise....I thin that was her standing behind her at the podium.

[MrsMush99]

Oh Darn I'm having trouble viewing the link. Shoot.

[MrsMush99]

Is this video bouncing for anyone else?

[MrsMush99]

Is that Brooke's father sitting behind the coffin?

[Jaded]

This is just heartbreaking.

[MrsMush99]

This is just heartbreaking.

It really is.

[MrsMush99]

Is anyone else crying?

[SailorMoon]

Heartbreaking indeed. Just came on board here..am I watching this live?? or taped?

[MrsMush99]

Heartbreaking indeed. Just came on board here..am I watching this live?? or taped?

It is live. And the burial is private so we won't be seeing that.

[Beyond Belief]

This so sad for Brooke and her community.

[HarvestMoon]

This is just heartbreaking.

It sure is. It's hard enough to bury the aged, but when one is so young. :(

[MrsMush99]

Who were the people sitting behind the coffin?

[DianeB]

Is her family still sitting on the dais? I wonder why they didn't follow the casket as part of the processional?

[SailorMoon]

Was that all family in the middle section..tha'ts now empty?? That's a lot. I didn't see this from the beginning. How were her mom and aunt reacting?? You'd have to peel me off the casket if this had happened to my daughter. And I wonder about AR. Surely she is there?? I just wonder if this has all become very very real to her now...seeing it.

I was dry eyed til they showed the gentlemen singing and began carrying off the flowers and what not. I assume it was closed casket. Even harder when you know that.

[MrsMush99]

Is her family still sitting on the dais? I wonder why they didn't follow the casket as part of the processional?

I was wondering the same thing, that's why I asked who they were. Only the people in the front rows got up.

[DianeB]

I missed the beginning, but there seemed to be an entire section of seats in the middle that was kept empty.

[MrsMush99]

Was that all family in the middle section..tha'ts now empty?? That's a lot. I didn't see this from the beginning. How were her mom and aunt reacting?? You'd have to peel me off the casket if this had happened to my daughter. And I wonder about AR. Surely she is there?? I just wonder if this has all become very very real to her now...seeing it.

I was dry eyed til they showed the gentlemen singing and began carrying off the flowers and what not. I assume it was closed casket. Even harder when you know that.

Yes it was a closed casket. I missed the beginning as well. Was her aunt there???

[liljim]

Is anyone else crying?

yep. it was a really nice service i thought. i think it was a mistake to bring up the idea of praying for jacques but i understand his sentiment. other than that i thought that guy did a very nice job, i have never heard a minister get choked up before during a service.

then again i dont think i have ever heard a funeral service given by anyone that young before either so that may be it.

[liljim]

Yes it was a closed casket. I missed the beginning as well. Was her aunt there???

is the casket ever open at a funeral service?

[angelwngs]

Thank Goodness for the favor of closure to be able to bury this child.

Thanks to the Vermont State Police, all LE and to the FBI for bringing this child home.

Even in such tragedy, the 'not knowing' where she 'is' would make it so much more tragic.

God Speed, Sweet Brooke.

[MrsMush99]

is the casket ever open at a funeral service?

No. But the question was asked so I answered, LOL.

[DianeB]

The only people I recognized immediately were Brooke's mom and dad, but I took note of the minister urging the congregation to pray for the entire family ("dig deep").

I wonder how long it will take for the service to be put up on youtube.

[MrsMush99]

The only people I recognized immediately were Brooke's mom and dad, but I took note of the minister urging the congregation to pray for the entire family ("dig deep").

I wonder how long it will take for the service to be put up on youtube.

I was wondering the same thing. I would like to see it from the beginning.

[liljim]

And I wonder about AR. Surely she is there?? I just wonder if this has all become very very real to her now...seeing it.

i dont know, with everything that is known now i really cant picture her being there. i know she is a victim too but im not sure it would have been a good idea for her to be there.

[SailorMoon]

I've never been to a closed casket...they are always open, at least the dozen or so I've been to.

is the casket ever open at a funeral service?

[MrsMush99]

I know I asked this question already, but no one answered me, was Denise there?

[MrsMush99]

I've never been to a closed casket...they are always open, at least the dozen or so I've been to.

At a funeral or a wake?? At a wake they are usually opened. They close the casket after the last viewing to prepare for the funeral.

[SailorMoon]

Good post. I just had to post it again so that I can repeat it outloud to myself.

Thank Goodness for the favor of closure to be able to bury this child.

Thanks to the Vermont State Police, all LE and to the FBI for bringing this child home.

Even in such tragedy, the 'not knowing' where she would make it so much more tragic.

God Speed, Sweet Brooke.

[liljim]

I was wondering the same thing. I would like to see it from the beginning.

wcax.com says it will be up on their site shortly after it ends.

re: open/closed casket, hehe yeah thats what i figured ;) i just wasnt sure if there was some religion/custom i wasnt familiar with :)

[DianeB]

i dont know, with everything that is known now i really cant picture her being there. i know she is a victim too but im not sure it would have been a good idea for her to be there.Two innocent lives broken... how tragic.

[angelwngs]

is the casket ever open at a funeral service?

Depending on what the family chooses, the casket is sometimes, and (often in the South), open at the church or place where the service is held, until just prior to the beginning of the service. Also, it is sometimes again opened at the gaveside service, just prior to that service beginning.

[MrsMush99]

Depending on what the family chooses, the casket is sometimes, and (often in the South), open at the church or place where the service is held, until just prior to the beginning of the service. Also, it is sometimes again opened at the gaveside service, just prior to that service beginning.

Really??? You learn something new everyday. I've NEVER heard of an open casket at a funeral.

[MrsMush99]

wcax.com says it will be up on their site shortly after it ends.

re: open/closed casket, hehe yeah thats what i figured ;) i just wasnt sure if there was some religion/custom i wasnt familiar with :)

Thank you! Now if my kiddos will just let me watch it!

[SailorMoon]

They are always open in our church, and my dad's was....and he was in a different state than Texas. Then they closed it after the funeral. Same for another funeral I went to last summer at the funeral home here in Dallas. Casket was open until they closed it up and took it to the grave.

Whatever --not arguing about that at all. Just interesting though how the services vary apparently.

I just wondered how bad Brooke's body was and it must have been bad. Poor baby.


At a funeral or a wake?? At a wake they are usually opened. They close the casket after the last viewing to prepare for the funeral.

[Amster]

The little girl who read about Brooke....was that A.R.s little sister? That wasn't Denise with her, was it?

[MrsMush99]

They are always open in our church, and my dad's was....and he was in a different state than Texas. Then they closed it after the funeral. Same for another funeral I went to last summer at the funeral home here in Dallas. Casket was open until they closed it up and took it to the grave.

Whatever --not arguing about that at all. Just interesting though how the services vary apparently.

I just wondered how bad Brooke's body was and it must have been bad. Poor baby.


I know they had an open casket at the wake yesterday. Someone mentioned it on the general discussion thread.

I wasn't arguing, I just never heard of it. Now I know that sometimes that does happen.

[MrsMush99]

The little girl who read about Brooke....was that A.R.s little sister? That wasn't Denise with her, was it?


I'm still trying to figure out if Denise was there. No one has answered me yet.

[Amster]

I'm still trying to figure out if Denise was there. No one has answered me yet.

The woman with the little girl wasn't Denise....unless she dyed her hair overnight.

[liljim]

the more i think about it i am getting more annoyed by that guy stressing that people should pray for ALL of the people involved, it is clear he means to include jacques imo. and i just think there is no need to that at this girl's funeral. it is a valid point from his perspective but i just think maybe it is something to raise at a sermon in a few weeks or so, not on the day brooke goes in the ground.

yeah, im kind of ticked off now about that. :/ anyone else think it was a bit inappropriate?

[MrsMush99]

The woman with the little girl wasn't Denise....unless she dyed her hair overnight.

But was she at the funeral???? That's all I'm trying to figure out.

[MrsMush99]

the more i think about it i am getting more annoyed by that guy stressing that people should pray for ALL of the people involved, it is clear he means to include jacques imo. and i just think there is no need to that at this girl's funeral. it is a valid point from his perspective but i just think maybe it is something to raise at a sermon in a few weeks or so, not on the day brooke goes in the ground.

yeah, im kind of ticked off now about that. :/ anyone else think it was a bit inappropriate?

I missed that part, but maybe he meant Denise and AR.

[angelwngs]

Really??? You learn something new everyday. I've NEVER heard of an open casket at a funeral.

Yep... IMO, it is an antiquated tradition as are many traditions associated with funerals, however, it often still happens here in the Southern USA.

Personally, I feel that many funeral traditions should be given a second look. It seems very cruel to me for the family to have to walk all the way down the isle to sit in front and then at the end of the service to again stand and leave, walking that long walk exiting the service, in front of everyone attending the service. It is as if you are being placed in public display in your most intimate time of mourning. I chose for my immediate family to enter the service through the front doors of our church and exit through them as well, for my mom's service. It was much kinder, IMO.

[christine2448]

Thank Goodness for the favor of closure to be able to bury this child.

Thanks to the Vermont State Police, all LE and to the FBI for bringing this child home.

Even in such tragedy, the 'not knowing' where she 'is' would make it so much more tragic.

God Speed, Sweet Brooke.

Great post. Thanks to all that worked so hard to bring Brooke 'home' for her loved ones. She is in a better place...now let's make our world a better place and rid it of these scumbags who did and allowed this to be done. If there are more involved, I pray they are caught. If there are more abused, I pray they come forward and get help.

[HarvestMoon]

the more i think about it i am getting more annoyed by that guy stressing that people should pray for ALL of the people involved, it is clear he means to include jacques imo. and i just think there is no need to that at this girl's funeral. it is a valid point from his perspective but i just think maybe it is something to raise at a sermon in a few weeks or so, not on the day brooke goes in the ground.

yeah, im kind of ticked off now about that. :/ anyone else think it was a bit inappropriate?

I did think it was stressed a bit too much. But, I understand his point.

[HarvestMoon]

Great post. Thanks to all that worked so hard to bring Brooke 'home' for her loved ones. She is in a better place...now let's make our world a better place and rid it of these scumbags who did and allowed this to be done. If there are more involved, I pray they are caught. If there are more abused, I pray they come forward and get help.

I pray that the creeps find an ounce of dignity and completely confess and forgo a trial, without any plea deal. I know it won't happen though.

[MrsMush99]

I pray that the creeps find an ounce of dignity and completely confess and forgo a trial, without any plea deal. I know it won't happen though.

That will never happen unfortunately.

[CarpeDiem]

the more i think about it i am getting more annoyed by that guy stressing that people should pray for ALL of the people involved, it is clear he means to include jacques imo. and i just think there is no need to that at this girl's funeral. it is a valid point from his perspective but i just think maybe it is something to raise at a sermon in a few weeks or so, not on the day brooke goes in the ground.

yeah, im kind of ticked off now about that. :/ anyone else think it was a bit inappropriate?

That pastor knew Brooke's Dad and his current wife and kids, not Brooke. I got a detached feeling from him with regards to Brooke. It was odd. The only thing I could think of in regards to his remarks is that those little children (Brooke's half-siblings) shouldn't grow up in a house full of sadness and anger and hate, because hate eats up your entire life until there is nothing good left. The pastor knows this. So, for that immediate family, his remarks were probably good.

[Amster]

But was she at the funeral???? That's all I'm trying to figure out.

I don't know....I didn't see her.

[MrsMush99]

http://www.wcax.com/Global/story.asp?S=8647250

Our apologies... due to technical difficulties we are unable to carry Brooke Bennett's funeral live on WCAX.com as we had hoped. But we will post the video once the services end so you can see them.

[MrsMush99]

I don't know....I didn't see her.

Thanks!

[SailorMoon]

Same here!! :)

Well I missed that then about the wake then.

I know they had an open casket at the wake yesterday. Someone mentioned it on the general discussion thread.

I wasn't arguing, I just never heard of it. Now I know that sometimes that does happen.

[lonetraveler]

My thirteen year old grandson was killed March 26, 2008 and this funeral today brings back a lot of pain.

[vermontn03]

wcax.com says it will be up on their site shortly after it ends.

re: open/closed casket, hehe yeah thats what i figured ;) i just wasnt sure if there was some religion/custom i wasnt familiar with :)


I do not see how you are getting anything from Wcax, because it is under construction i have not been able to access it since early this morning.


Under Construction

The site you are trying to view does not currently have a default page. It may be in the process of being upgraded and configured.
Please try this site again later. If you still experience the problem, try contacting the Web site administrator. If you are the Web site administrator and feel you have received this message in error, please see "Enabling and Disabling Dynamic Content" in IIS Help.

[MrsMush99]

My thirteen year old grandson was killed March 26, 2008 and this funeral today brings back a lot of pain.

Oh I'm so sorry lonetraveler.

[DianeB]

That pastor knew Brooke's Dad and his current wife and kids, not Brooke. I got a detached feeling from him with regards to Brooke. I didn't know that, thanks for posting it. I didn't hear his entire homily, but now that you mention it the part I did hear didn't have any personal recollections about Brooke.

There was an older gentleman who I also got the impression was a pastor or minister. Did he speak about Brooke?

[MrsMush99]

I do not see how you are getting anything from Wcax, because it is under construction i have not been able to access it since early this morning.


Under Construction

The site you are trying to view does not currently have a default page. It may be in the process of being upgraded and configured.
Please try this site again later. If you still experience the problem, try contacting the Web site administrator. If you are the Web site administrator and feel you have received this message in error, please see "Enabling and Disabling Dynamic Content" in IIS Help.


I'm getting on the site just fine. I just doubled checked and it's up and running for me.

[Amster]

My thirteen year old grandson was killed March 26, 2008 and this funeral today brings back a lot of pain.

I bet it does....I'm so sorry about your loss...

[DianeB]

My condolences, lonetraveler.

[liljim]

I do not see how you are getting anything from Wcax, because it is under construction i have not been able to access it since early this morning.
[/COLOR]


that is odd, i have looked at their site many times off and on today as have others here. the other day people were saying they couldnt access it too, while i and others got to it just fine.

not sure what the problem is but i assure you that message is on their website.

[vermontn03]

I'm getting on the site just fine. I just doubled checked and it's up and running for me.


i havnt been able to access it since 730 this morning. I am always looking at the site.

[liljim]

just went there now...

"Breaking News

Brooke's Funeral Will be Available on WCAX.com
Video of Brooke Bennett's funeral will be posted once the services end."

[CarpeDiem]

I know they had an open casket at the wake yesterday. Someone mentioned it on the general discussion thread.


That's true and it was surprising. However, the local news outlets report Brooke's casket was up on the stage and she was in a yellow dress. The set up would make it seem that people really couldn't get a good look at her like you would at a funeral home, as they passed by the front of the stage, didn't go up on it.

[Amster]

Are they replaying the funeral?

[MrsMush99]

i havnt been able to access it since 730 this morning. I am always looking at the site.

:waitasec: Very strange.

[MrsMush99]

Are they replaying the funeral?

Not yet. I keep checking because I would like to see the beginning.

[vermontn03]

omg I had to go to an OLD article to get there, I can see it now. I have never had to do that.

[Jaded]

My thirteen year old grandson was killed March 26, 2008 and this funeral today brings back a lot of pain.

Am so sorry for your loss. *hugs*

I sat here and cried for this poor child and grieved knowing now that her family must go on without her when this could have been prevented. The system failed and this little girl paid for it with her life. Little Brooke has touched so many lives and she doesn't even know it. I blame the lenient judge and the idiot who said this pedophile graduated Anti-Pedo class with flying colors. Isn't so - they cannot be cured.

So now what? I hope that this is a wake up call not just in VT but around the nation that tougher laws must be enacted against pedos.

Sorry for the rant.

[DianeB]

i havnt been able to access it since 730 this morning. I am always looking at the site.I wonder if it would load for you if you clear out your cookies and temp cache file?

[RiverRat]

Video coverage here:

http://www.necn.com/Boston/New-England/Hundreds-gather-for-funeral-of-Brooke-Bennett-/1215620724.html

[vermontn03]

I wonder if it would load for you if you clear out your cookies and temp cache file?

Did that already i do that at least two times a day. but i can see it now
had to go to an OLD article.

[angelwngs]

omg I had to go to an OLD article to get there, I can see it now. I have never had to do that.

Would you be so kind as to post the link to the old article to help those of us who can't access the newer link?

[MrsMush99]

New article about the funeral.

http://www.wcax.com/global/story.asp?s=8647568

[DianeB]

Video coverage here:
http://www.necn.com/Boston/New-England/Hundreds-gather-for-funeral-of-Brooke-Bennett-/1215620724.htmlThank you for posting that link.

So the people on the dais weren't Brooke's family? The woman I thought was her mother was giving instructions to the congregation about why they should sing.

Now I'm thoroughly confused!

[MrsMush99]

Thank you for posting that link.

So the people on the dais weren't Brooke's family? The woman I thought was her mother was giving instructions to the congregation about why they should sing.

Now I'm thoroughly confused!

Me too!!! I was under the impression that it was her family, until they didn't leave when the family did, does that make sense??

[Cornflower]

My thirteen year old grandson was killed March 26, 2008 and this funeral today brings back a lot of pain.

I´m so sorry, lonetraveler.

[DianeB]

Now I understand why they stayed behind, if they were associated with the church(es?).

I'm still a little puzzled by the swath of empty rows, though.

[vermontn03]

Hundreds Turn Out for Brooke's Funeral


Randolph, Vermont - July 9, 2008
Funeral services were held this morning in Randolph for 12-year-old Brooke Bennett, who was murdered two weeks ago.
Hundreds of people from the community crowded into a large tent on the grounds of Randolph Union High School.
Hundreds also showed up for a wake yesterday to remember the young girl.
The Reverend Tom Harty conducted today's service.
"We gather here today in the protection shelter of God's love in this gathered community. Look around at the faces, look around at the faces that share your grief, a grief that we cannot comprehend to begin," said Rev. Harty.
Kate Duffy will have much more tonight on the Channel 3 News at 6 p.m.
We will also provide video of the funeral on WCAX.com later today.

http://wcax.images.worldnow.com/images/8647568_BG1.jpg

http://wcax.images.worldnow.com/images/8647568_BG2.jpg

http://wcax.images.worldnow.com/images/8647568_BG3.jpg

http://www.wcax.com/Global/story.asp?S=8647568

[SailorMoon]

At my dad's yes, we sat up front, but then everyone else left first...back row first, went up took another look at the casket, then came over and paid their respects to us, and then they left. We were the last to leave and alone with my dad for as along as wanted again. I liked it that way. Makes more sense to me.

Okay.....enough about that...this day is for Brooke.

Yep... IMO, it is an antiquated tradition as are many traditions associated with funerals, however, it often still happens here in the Southern USA.

Personally, I feel that many funeral traditions should be given a second look. It seems very cruel to me for the family to have to walk all the way down the isle to sit in front and then at the end of the service to again stand and leave, walking that long walk exiting the service, in front of everyone attending the service. It is as if you are being placed in public display in your most intimate time of mourning. I chose for my immediate family to enter the service through the front doors of our church and exit through them as well, for my mom's service. It was much kinder, IMO.

[vermontn03]

Would you be so kind as to post the link to the old article to help those of us who can't access the newer link?

the link that I clicked on to go to wcax wasn't anythign to do with brooke.

[DianeB]

Vermontn03, do you recognize the people sitting behind the casket? The woman leaning her head toward the minister is the one in the necn clip shown talking beforehand to the congregation about singing.

[SailorMoon]

((((hugs))))) to you. So sorry for your loss.

My thirteen year old grandson was killed March 26, 2008 and this funeral today brings back a lot of pain.

[vermontn03]

Vermontn03, do you recognize the people sitting behind the casket? The woman leaning her head toward the minister is the one in the necn clip shown talking beforehand to the congregation about singing.

No I do not I cant see her pic all that well. I tried to get the video on necn and that wouldnt come up either I think the heat is playing a role on my internet today. Today of all days, that I am waiting for something very important to come on the news as well as brooke's funeral.

[DianeB]

Isn't that always the way?

[vermontn03]

Isn't that always the way?

yes it is, It's making me really mad.

[Carrington]

that little girl that just spoke was MJ's daughter w/ Denise....I thin that was her standing behind her at the podium.

I thought that too, but I missed the introduction.
Anyone?

[vermontn03]

ok now I can see the video from necn had to restart computer

[cheko1]

My thirteen year old grandson was killed March 26, 2008 and this funeral today brings back a lot of pain.


I'm so sorry to hear that lonetraveler.:blowkiss:

[Tom'sGirl]

Reverend: Comfort us who mourn Bennett http://www.necn.com/Boston/New-England/Reverend-Comfort-us-who-mourn-Bennett-/1215624033.html (http://www.necn.com/Boston/New-England/Reverend-Comfort-us-who-mourn-Bennett-/1215624033.html)

Pastor: Pray for all involved in Bennett death http://www.necn.com/category/32/12850 (http://www.necn.com/category/32/12850)

Pastor: Human life is holy in its dying http://www.necn.com/category/32/12849 (http://www.necn.com/category/32/12849)

Bennett brothers show trust, love http://www.necn.com/category/32/12851 (http://www.necn.com/category/32/12851)

Courtney: Brooke was brave and beautiful http://www.necn.com/category/32/12847 (http://www.necn.com/category/32/12847)

Bennett's sister reads prayer at funeral service http://www.necn.com/Boston/New-England/Bennetts-sister-reads-prayer-at-funeral-service-/1215624285.html (http://www.necn.com/Boston/New-England/Bennetts-sister-reads-prayer-at-funeral-service-/1215624285.html)

[MCDRAW]

the more i think about it i am getting more annoyed by that guy stressing that people should pray for ALL of the people involved, it is clear he means to include jacques imo. and i just think there is no need to that at this girl's funeral. it is a valid point from his perspective but i just think maybe it is something to raise at a sermon in a few weeks or so, not on the day brooke goes in the ground.

yeah, im kind of ticked off now about that. :/ anyone else think it was a bit inappropriate?



Maybe he was talking about praying for AR instead of Jacques.

[MCDRAW]

My thirteen year old grandson was killed March 26, 2008 and this funeral today brings back a lot of pain.


I am so sorry to hear about your Grandson.

[Hailiejade77]

I could be totally wrong here but I believe the people sitting behind Brooke's casket was all the church administrators. They did say that all the churches have come together today. Maybe that is it. IMO

[LI_Mom]

I thought that too, but I missed the introduction.
Anyone?

The title on the video said Courtney Jacques.... cousin of Brooke. I also think that was Denise standing by Coutrney.


Condolences to lonetraveler.

[HarvestMoon]

The title on the video said Courtney Jacques.... cousin of Brooke. I also think that was Denise standing by Coutrney.


Condolences to lonetraveler.

She was.

http://www.burlingtonfreepress.com/apps/pbcs.dll/gallery?Site=BT&Date=20080709&Category=NEWS&ArtNo=807090802&Ref=PH&Params=Itemnr=10

[DianeB]

This must be an odd situation for the news media to handle.

Obviously they would want to protect the identity of other children in the family, but when they appear in public situations such as the reading at the funeral or Savanna's appearance on TV, naturally their identities are going to be broadcast.

A question for the people who know the families - were all of the kids there?

[concernedperson]

This must be an odd situation for the news media to handle.

Obviously they would want to protect the identity of other children in the family, but when they appear in public situations such as the reading at the funeral or Savanna's appearance on TV, naturally their identities are going to be broadcast.

A question for the people who know the families - were all of the kids there?
AR wasn't there as far as I could tell. I wonder where she was?

[Starr58]

Well done audio slideshow:

http://www.burlingtonfreepress.com/legacy/slideshows/070908funeral/index.html

[LI_Mom]

I do think the appeal to pray for ALL the people.... sounded harsh in light of the circumstances BUT I think it was probably a wise thing to do before the community tears itself completely apart .... especially hating all the Jacques family even the innocent children.

And it's much more likely that Denise will cooperate fully w/ LE if she knows there won't be a witch hunt against both her children & there will be compassion for them as victims also.

Now that the funeral is over.... it will be so hard for Brooke's own family, her friends & the whole community.


It would be so nice if MJ pled guilty & at least gave this poor family some little peace.



She was.

http://www.burlingtonfreepress.com/apps/pbcs.dll/gallery?Site=BT&Date=20080709&Category=NEWS&ArtNo=807090802&Ref=PH&Params=Itemnr=10

[LI_Mom]

AR wasn't there as far as I could tell. I wonder where she was?

Hopefully she's in a treatment center getting extensive therapy.

I think showing up would have been a horror for Brooke's family AND for AR as well.... the focus had to be on Brooke.

[HarvestMoon]

Brooke had a lovely casket, little violets were all around it. I think her favorite color must have been purple.

[raeann]

I believe it must be her favorite color.........she had a purple streak put in her hair, and her mom and sister wore purple shirts to the funeral. Also, the floral arrangement on her casket seemed to have pink and lavender roses in it.

[Hailiejade77]

Didn't see this on here at all,...
Here is the complete funeral video link
http://www.wcax.com/Global/story.asp?S=8647568&nav=menu183_6_4_4

[liljim]

Maybe he was talking about praying for AR instead of Jacques.


others have said this too, and while it is certainly possible IMO the way he stresses it makes it clear he means ALL of the people involved.

like i said, i dont think he is wrong as a minister to have that opinion, and he may be right that there is healing in forgiving even the worst of people, but i feel strongly that at the girl's funeral is not the appropriate time to mention it.

there will be plenty of other times and ways to get that message out to the community if he feels it is important, it didnt have to be done on the day brooke was to be put to rest.

if i were a member of her family i would absolutely be offended at anyone even hinting at jacques name on the day of the funeral. today was about brooke.

[liljim]

oh and just so it doesnt sound like i am just bashing the guy, like i said earlier i thought he did a a great job, his message was very good and im not a religious person but i really felt he made a lot of sense and hit on all the right points.

[HarvestMoon]

others have said this too, and while it is certainly possible IMO the way he stresses it makes it clear he means ALL of the people involved.

like i said, i dont think he is wrong as a minister to have that opinion, and he may be right that there is healing in forgiving even the worst of people, but i feel strongly that at the girl's funeral is not the appropriate time to mention it.

there will be plenty of other times and ways to get that message out to the community if he feels it is important, it didnt have to be done on the day brooke was to be put to rest.

if i were a member of her family i would absolutely be offended at anyone even hinting at jacques name on the day of the funeral. today was about brooke.

I agree.

[Elley Mae]

I could not even watch the funeral this was nothing more then a tent revival god this and jesus that I thought this was about BROOKE. RIP

[Hailiejade77]

I could not even watch the funeral this was nothing more then a tent revival god this and jesus that I thought this was about BROOKE. RIP

You know,..come to think of it,.. I don't think there was very much said about Brooke. (her personality, her as a person) I think C is the only one that actually talked about BROOKE. I am not sure about everyone else but at most funerals I've been too (especially younger ones), they talk about the person and sometimes share memories. JMO

[Tom'sGirl]

You know,..come to think of it,.. I don't think there was very much said about Brooke. (her personality, her as a person) I think C is the only one that actually talked about BROOKE. I am not sure about everyone else but at most funerals I've been too (especially younger ones), they talk about the person and sometimes share memories. JMO
I would guess that was all said the day prior!

[Hailiejade77]

I would guess that was all said the day prior!

I guess you would be right. I was just under the impression that it was like a viewing type thing (the wake). And every viewing I have been to you just walk up give your condolences to the family and maybe go up to the casket.

[RR0004]

others have said this too, and while it is certainly possible IMO the way he stresses it makes it clear he means ALL of the people involved.

like i said, i dont think he is wrong as a minister to have that opinion, and he may be right that there is healing in forgiving even the worst of people, but i feel strongly that at the girl's funeral is not the appropriate time to mention it.

there will be plenty of other times and ways to get that message out to the community if he feels it is important, it didnt have to be done on the day brooke was to be put to rest.

if i were a member of her family i would absolutely be offended at anyone even hinting at jacques name on the day of the funeral. today was about brooke.
Amen to that!

[Amster]

I could not even watch the funeral this was nothing more then a tent revival god this and jesus that I thought this was about BROOKE. RIP

I think it's a good thing that people are reminded about God and Jesus.

[Meridian]

Really??? You learn something new everyday. I've NEVER heard of an open casket at a funeral.
Most of the time here in Detroit, unless it has been specifically requested, and/or in the case of Catholics (that I know of), the caskets are open during the funeral; usually being closed just prior to the eulogy beginning. At that time, there is usually a very emotional closing of the casket where the immediate family members are allowed to go to the casket, together, and watch the casket being closed. Sometimes, a specific family member may even be the one who lowers the casket on their loved one.

I have even seen caskets REOPENED for perhaps out of town family members who arrive a bit late, after the casket has been closed.

[Meridian]

My thirteen year old grandson was killed March 26, 2008 and this funeral today brings back a lot of pain.
My heart goes out to you for your loss. :blowkiss:

[FourWands]

Most of the time here in Detroit, unless it has been specifically requested, and/or in the case of Catholics (that I know of), the caskets are open during the funeral; usually being closed just prior to the eulogy beginning. At that time, there is usually a very emotional closing of the casket where the immediate family members are allowed to go to the casket, together, and watch the casket being closed. Sometimes, a specific family member may even be the one who lowers the casket on their loved one.

I have even seen caskets REOPENED for perhaps out of town family members who arrive a bit late, after the casket has been closed.

Perhaps it is a regional thing. I had a Catholic upbringing and most funerals I have attended have a closed casket. In fact, when my father died, they would not have us stay in the room while they closed the casket...

[becca]

Perhaps it is a regional thing. I had a Catholic upbringing and most funerals I have attended have a closed casket. In fact, when my father died, they would not have us stay in the room while they closed the casket...
The last funeral I went to the casket was open for the viewing the day before, then a closing of the casket at the funeral home with the family and close friends... then on to the church for mass and then grave side military services.

[Cornflower]

I think it's a good thing that people are reminded about God and Jesus.

I agree.

[gigi2009]

Lonetraveler--My heart goes out to you on your loss.


I watched the whole thing on the links provided and also thought it seemed a bit awkward. Other than C and her speech, and Savannah reciting her prayer, there didn't seem to be anything said about Brooke. Other funerals, even under tragic circumstances, had memories recalled and were very focused on the deceased. I thought the prayers were lovely but not really centered as much about Brooke more of a general focus on the community.

[Lola]

It was a very clinical funeral, indeed. It was almost as if no one knew Brooke. The preacher was way too Ned Flanders for my taste.

[texas48]

At my dad's yes, we sat up front, but then everyone else left first...back row first, went up took another look at the casket, then came over and paid their respects to us, and then they left. We were the last to leave and alone with my dad for as along as wanted again. I liked it that way. Makes more sense to me.

Okay.....enough about that...this day is for Brooke.Yes...The day is for Brooke. So hard to comprehend, so sad.

[believe09]

who took the time to put together or post links and pictures regarding Brooke Bennett's funeral, both here and on the photos thread. Seeing all of those beautiful girls, from Brooke's cousin all the way to her friends I was struck by their fresh, young beauty and it really brought home to me that the community had been concealing or unknowingly harboring a "cancer" for a long, long time...I think the repercussions from this tragedy have only just begun.

That being said, I have given up trying to keep up with the threads but have a quick question-did AR attend the funeral? If not, I wonder if she is in custody or in protective custody...

[LanieCoz]

I too believe it was Denise up there with Courtney. If you pause the video where Courtney is hugging Brookes mom (atleast that's who I think she's hugging) and you pull up the photo from MJ's court date that she appeared at, you will see that it is her.

[Lola]

who took the time to put together or post links and pictures regarding Brooke Bennett's funeral, both here and on the photos thread. Seeing all of those beautiful girls, from Brooke's cousin all the way to her friends I was struck by their fresh, young beauty and it really brought home to me that the community had been concealing or unknowingly harboring a "cancer" for a long, long time...I think the repercussions from this tragedy have only just begun.

I agree. Some of those little girls look stunned (including Savanna) -- how do you explain this to a child? What we know now is horrible, I fear there is worse to come.

[gigi2009]

who took the time to put together or post links and pictures regarding Brooke Bennett's funeral, both here and on the photos thread. Seeing all of those beautiful girls, from Brooke's cousin all the way to her friends I was struck by their fresh, young beauty and it really brought home to me that the community had been concealing or unknowingly harboring a "cancer" for a long, long time...I think the repercussions from this tragedy have only just begun.

That being said, I have given up trying to keep up with the threads but have a quick question-did AR attend the funeral? If not, I wonder if she is in custody or in protective custody...


Another poster found this (my apologies I can't recall who) http://http://http://www.vnews.com/07102008/4944052.htm

"About 50 family members occupied four rows in front of the casket. To the right of the casket sat Gov. Jim Douglas and several members of the Vermont State Police and FBI, who were out of uniform and in mourning clothes. To the left, well away from the rest of the family, sat Jacques' wife, Denise, and her daughters."

[believe09]

Thanks, gigi-I read the article and could indeed see that it was reported Denise and daughters sat well away from the rest of the family.

I guess I will take a cue from LE with this situation, and point out that they had Vermont State troopers guarding them-whether because there was an expectation of trouble or confrontation, I don't know. I would have thought they simply would not have attended the funeral then, but it took GREAT COURAGE for Denise to attend. I like the idea of having AR attend simply because she needs to see the situation come full circle....and to see the consequences of the choices we make in life; victim or otherwise it is a good lesson.

Would I have had AR's sister speak? Probably not, and I probably would not have had her attend at all, but that is just me. Kids have a hard enough time processing the concept of death, much less the undercurrent of horror and other strong emotions I am sure were exhibited.

[LI_Mom]

Another poster found this (my apologies I can't recall who) http://http://http://www.vnews.com/07102008/4944052.htm

"About 50 family members occupied four rows in front of the casket. To the right of the casket sat Gov. Jim Douglas and several members of the Vermont State Police and FBI, who were out of uniform and in mourning clothes. To the left, well away from the rest of the family, sat Jacques' wife, Denise, and her daughters."

Wow! Does that mean for sure AR was there?? How many daughters does Denise &/or MJ have???

[raeann]

There is a picture on one of the news sites where little C. is hugging another girl after she read her tribute to Brooke, the girl she is hugging appears to be AR. Her hair color and the length of her hair is very similar to that shown on a picture which was posted at one time of Savanah and AR. I am not sure that picture is still here and available, as it SHOULD have been removed by now for AR's protection.

[Starr58]

http://www.rutlandherald.com/apps/pbcs.dll/gallery?Site=RH&Date=20080709&Category=NEWS&ArtNo=807090802&Ref=PH&Params=Itemnr=1

[Busylady]

The picture that I saw of little C hugging someone after she read her tribute was Cassandra who was sitting on the first row.

There is a picture on one of the news sites where little C. is hugging another girl after she read her tribute to Brooke, the girl she is hugging appears to be AR. Her hair color and the length of her hair is very similar to that shown on a picture which was posted at one time of Savanah and AR. I am not sure that picture is still here and available, as it SHOULD have been removed by now for AR's protection.

[Tom'sGirl]

The picture that I saw of little C hugging someone after she read her tribute was Cassandra who was sitting on the first row.
Yeppers!

[Hailiejade77]

The picture that I saw of little C hugging someone after she read her tribute was Cassandra who was sitting on the first row.]


Do you mean the picture that is in the audio slide show that she is hugging someone that has on a brown tank top and C is holding a picture frame? (I am guessing its a picture of Brooke) The girl is sitting beside a man in a polo white, black and grey striped shirt. I don't think that was Cassandra. It might very well be AR. I did see the pic of Cassandra and C hugging afterwards. But I think this is an entirely different pic.


http://www.burlingtonfreepress.com/legacy/slideshows/070908funeral/index.html

[Hailiejade77]

Found this and thought to add it here,...

Saying goodbye and moving forward:
http://www.burlingtonfreepress.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080709/VIDEO/80709027

[nanandjim]

There is a picture on one of the news sites where little C. is hugging another girl after she read her tribute to Brooke, the girl she is hugging appears to be AR. Her hair color and the length of her hair is very similar to that shown on a picture which was posted at one time of Savanah and AR. I am not sure that picture is still here and available, as it SHOULD have been removed by now for AR's protection.
The girl hugging C. looks like Savannah. I would hope that AR didn't attend this wake. However, I just can't figure out the dynamics of this family. Denise was there. Cassandra and Jim were holding hands. I guess that they are all much more forgiving of one another than I would be.

BTW, that photo of AR is on Myspace for the entire world to see. Removing here doesn't "protect" AR. Also, not mentioning names here doesn't mean that they are not mentioned everywhere else.

[Hailiejade77]

The girl hugging C. looks like Savannah. I would hope that AR didn't attend this wake. However, I just can't figure out the dynamics of this family. Denise was there. Cassandra and Jim were holding hands. I guess that they are all much more forgiving of one another than I would be.

BTW, that photo of AR is on Myspace for the entire world to see. Removing here doesn't "protect" AR. Also, not mentioning names here doesn't mean that they are not mentioned everywhere else. It is naive to think that many other sites have all of the information that isn't allowed here.

no the pic I am talking about isn't Savanna,..she has dark hair. This girl has blondish hair. Could I post the pic? It just has the back of her head,.. you can't even see her face or anything?

[Tom'sGirl]

no the pic I am talking about isn't Savanna,..she has dark hair. This girl has blondish hair. Could I post the pic? It just has the back of her head,.. you can't even see her face or anything?
Link to photo here, and the hair color & length looks nothing like AR's photos in my opinion.
http://tinypic.com/view.php?pic=27zaq91&s=4

[Hailiejade77]

Link to photo here, and the hair color & length looks nothing like AR's photos.
http://tinypic.com/view.php?pic=27zaq91&s=4

In the pic in Savanna's myspace page she does have that color hair only longer. In AR's myspace page pic it isn't that color. I know it isn't Savanna and Cassandra wasn't wearing that shirt. I just was making speculations. But that is indeed the pic I was talking about.

[Busylady]

The hands of the person comforting C look like hands of an older person if that makes sense. I do not think it is AR

[jep0216]

It was a very clinical funeral, indeed. It was almost as if no one knew Brooke. The preacher was way too Ned Flanders for my taste.

I totally agree! I was trying to figure out who he reminded me of, and you hit it right on the nose!

[jep0216]

Another poster found this (my apologies I can't recall who) http://http://http://www.vnews.com/07102008/4944052.htm

"About 50 family members occupied four rows in front of the casket. To the right of the casket sat Gov. Jim Douglas and several members of the Vermont State Police and FBI, who were out of uniform and in mourning clothes. To the left, well away from the rest of the family, sat Jacques' wife, Denise, and her daughters."

I am pretty sure that AR wasn't there. Someone wrote on the #18forum that it was probably a typo.