These times of COVID have confirmed much of what we already knew about death, grief and the importance of corporate mourning. At Heritage Life Funeral Homes we know that families need the ability to grieve together. This time of restriction has pushed us to think outside the box for new ways to serve our community.
Outdoor spaces give us the opportunity to serve our families safely. In an effort to achieve that outdoor space on our own property, we recently purchased a large tent. We were able to put our new venue to good use as we served the family of Tia Kue Moua.
Tia and her family are Hmoug, originally from the country of Laos. When Tia passed away in August, her family desired a traditional Hmong service. Tia’s son called Heritage, inquiring if we would be willing to host them. He informed us that they would need two full days for the services and visitation.
Two twelve hour days followed, as we hosted Tia’s family and friends. People came from all over the United States to pay their respects to the family. Each day consisted of multiple services, viewings, times of encouraging words, songs and prayers. What number could safely gather, did so indoors in our chapel. The others were able to watch the services outdoors underneath the tent.
After Tia and her husband Nhia Khoua’s children had grown and finished college, the family moved from California to Michigan, opening several Thai food restaurants around Grand Rapids. Tia was an excellent chef. Everyone agreed that her food was the best around. Many opportunities for Tia to love and embrace people were centered around her delicious food. Whether you were an employee, a friend or a customer, around her table you were family.
As friends and family gathered together, food appropriately rolled in. Beautiful dishes, lovingly prepared for those who came to celebrate Tia’s life. Smiles, laughter and napkins were abundant as people gathered around outdoor tables. Her family was pleased as they saw those Tia loved...gathered, eating, laughing and loving each other.
Looking around those two days, you knew Tia was well loved and loved others equally well. The sadness of loss was perfectly mingled with joy and happy tears. The sense of community and family was palpable. One of Tia’s sons expressed it this way: “Our love is kinship. We may not all be family by blood, but we are kin”. Tia led her family by example and her love for people had no boundaries. As we celebrated together in a place far from her home country, we could see a glimpse of this boundary-less love that she modeled so well.
In every culture, death brings along with it certain rituals, customs, “norms”. These things help to orient us and bring structure in a time that can feel chaotic. Tia’s children expressed their deep gratitude for a space to hold their traditional Hmoug services here in Michigan.
It was our privilege to serve the family of Tia Kue Moua.
Tia Kue Moua, “forever in our hearts”.
To read more about the life of Tia Kue Moua click the link below to read her Life Story.
https://heritagelifestory.com/obituaries/tia-moua.132741