FRANCISCO SERRANO LAID TO REST

Francisco Serrano was laid to rest today in the midst of a stormy day. The early morning hours began with thunderstorms and tornadoes throughout the Pinellas Park area. The dark blue hearse that carried its precious cargo swiftly sped through the slippery Howard Franklin Bridge and was en route to Bay Pines National Cemetery. The bulk of the family were already arriving and were all huddled underneath a metal canopy awaiting the arrival of the Funeral Motorcade.

The silver casket was draped with the American flag, just as it was in the funeral the night before. Pastor JD Simmons directed the service with great dignity and reverence. Pastor Israel Torres began the service by reading a special Biography of Panchito and Ms Vickie sang "Amazing Grace" There was a collage of pictures depicting Francisco in many facets of his long wonderful life.

In the early hours, there was a special visual of Francisco with an audio of his 1983 message to his family. Francisco Serrano declared in the audio that he always honored his parents and he wished that his children would do the same. the audience of approximately 90 people were listening closely to that man that was now in a closed , flag-draped casket in the front center of the funeral parlor. Two large lamps stood in between the glistening casket as Irving Serrano share a few words about his Father. Irving spoke in Spanish and Rev. Israel Torres translated.

Ms Vickie, once again sang one of Francisco's favorite songs; "It is well with my Soul" Noel Serrano delivered the Eulogy and it is posted in its entirety in this Journal. Rev JD Simmons began his message using the scriptures of Psalm 116 "Precious in the sight of the Lord is the Death of his Saints" along with Psalm 23. The Funeral of Francisco Serrano was blessed with a quiet reverence of a traditional visitation of family and friends and culminated with a solemn and moving funeral Service.

The Military Honors at the Grave site was outstanding. There was a wonderful crowd of family and Friends that braved the strong winds and rain to witness the Honor Guard fold the flag and the rifle volleys sounded like cannons echoing thru the large Bay Pines valley. The sole bugler stood erect and played the haunting "TAPS" It was all so very moving and respectful. The Chaplain of the Military spoke a few words and the time came for the family to witness the casket being transferred to the site where Francisco would be placed for final burial.