LIVE: Funeral service for former Vice President Dick Cheney

Key Concepts

• Funeral Service: A religious ceremony to honor and remember a deceased person, typically involving prayers, readings, eulogies, and hymns.
• Eulogy: A speech or piece of writing that praises someone who has died.
• Faith and Spirituality: Belief in a higher power and the role of religion in life and death.
• Public Service and Patriotism: Dedication to serving one's country and the values associated with it.
• Family and Legacy: The importance of family relationships and the lasting impact of an individual's life.
• Health and Resilience: Overcoming significant health challenges and the determination to live life to the fullest.
• Wyoming Values: Characteristics associated with the state of Wyoming, such as self-reliance, hard work, and connection to the land.
• Christian Theology: Concepts of resurrection, eternal life, God's mercy, and the comfort of faith in the face of death.

Funeral Service for Richard Bruce Cheney

This transcript details the funeral service for Richard Bruce Cheney, the 46th Vice President of the United States. The service, held at a cathedral, was a solemn occasion marked by prayers, scripture readings, musical performances, and heartfelt tributes from those who knew him best. The overarching themes of the service were faith in God, the importance of family, dedication to public service, and the resilience of the human spirit.

Opening Prayers and Hymns

The service commenced with prayers for the deceased, Richard Bruce Cheney, asking for his deliverance and rest in the company of saints. Prayers were also offered for those mourning, seeking God's comfort and peace. Hymns such as "Beautiful Savior" and "I Know That My Redeemer Liveth" were sung, emphasizing themes of faith, resurrection, and the assurance of eternal life.

Welcome and Acknowledgements

Jonathan Ryder, Vice President Cheney's cardiologist, delivered the opening remarks, welcoming attendees on behalf of the Bishop of the Diocese of Washington and the Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church. He acknowledged the presence of distinguished guests, including Presidents and Vice Presidents, and expressed gratitude to the Cheney family for sharing him with the nation. Ryder highlighted the trust that developed between him and Vice President Cheney over 27 years, emphasizing its sacred nature in the doctor-patient relationship.

Eulogy by Dr. Jonathan Ryder

Dr. Ryder shared personal anecdotes about Vice President Cheney's health journey, beginning with a heart attack at age 37 during his first congressional campaign. Despite medical advice to withdraw, Cheney's determination led him to resume his campaign and win, demonstrating his resilience. Ryder described Cheney as an "easiest patient to care for" due to his meticulous compliance with treatment and his motto, "When in doubt, check it out."

A significant medical event discussed was on September 11, 2001, when Cheney's potassium level was dangerously high. Despite the urgency, Cheney declined an immediate repeat test, a rare instance of him refusing a medical recommendation. Ryder also noted Cheney's unassuming nature, his humble greetings, and his gratitude. He mentioned the significant donation made by Vice President and Mrs. Cheney to George Washington University, which helped establish their heart institute and provide medical equipment to underserved communities.

Ryder recounted the critical moment in July 2010 when Cheney was near death and required a mechanical heart assist device. Cheney's calm acceptance, "Okay, let's do it," exemplified his courage. Ryder defined courage not as the absence of fear, but the ability to persevere in its presence, a trait Cheney embodied throughout his life, facing his relentless heart disease with fortitude. The successful implantation of the device and subsequent heart transplant allowed him to live for 20 more months, cherishing time with his family. Ryder also acknowledged the anonymous family who donated the heart, a gift that provided Cheney with precious time.

Tributes from Colleagues and Friends

Several individuals shared their perspectives on Vice President Cheney's character and career:

• Wyoming Values: Cheney was described as embodying Wyoming values, being comfortable in the outdoors, judging people by their accomplishments, and deeply loving his home state. His six elections to the House of Representatives from Wyoming underscored this connection.
• Public Service and Integrity: Cheney's respect for public service was evident in his preference for "federal official" over "bureaucrat." An anecdote was shared about his willingness to take blame for a leak of information to the press, protecting his staff. His loyalty and concern for those who served him were consistently highlighted.
• Leadership and Judgment: During the Gulf War, Cheney was seen as a plain-speaking, resolute, and strong leader. His ability to analyze situations and make difficult decisions was praised.
• Humor and Approachability: Despite his public image, Cheney was described as having a sly sense of humor and being approachable, especially to those from his home state.
• Intellect and Restraint: Colleagues noted his ability to redefine problems, offer new perspectives, and his disciplined mind. He was characterized as a thinker and listener, sparing with words but profound when he spoke.
• Loyalty and Friendship: Cheney was recognized for his loyalty to friends and colleagues, not abandoning those who helped him rise. His choice of George W. Bush as his running mate was seen as a testament to his judgment and preparedness.

Family Tributes

Cheney's grandchildren and daughters shared deeply personal reflections:

• Grandchildren's Memories: They recalled his guidance, storytelling, love for the outdoors (fly fishing, horseback riding), and his presence at family gatherings. His love for his family was a recurring theme, with many expressing how his gaze alone conveyed his affection. His determination and grit, even if not blessed with speed, were highlighted as life lessons.
• Daughter Liz Cheney's Reflections: Liz spoke about her father's deep devotion to America, his understanding of the sacrifices made for freedom, and his commitment to teaching his children and grandchildren about history and civic duty. She recounted childhood trips to Civil War battlefields and his meticulous study of historical sites. She also shared his private faith and his belief in turning to God for comfort. She described his quiet strength, his ability to crystallize what was important, and his surprising nature. She also recounted his early life experiences, including working on power lines and his return to education, inspired by President Kennedy's call to service.
• Daughter Mary Cheney's Reflections: Mary shared her father's love for his family, his quiet faith, and his belief in doing what is right. She described their road trips, where he shared his knowledge of history and America, and his preference for choosing the music. She emphasized his kindness, safety, love, and laughter.

Religious Readings and Prayers

The service included readings from the Book of Isaiah, Psalm 23, and a letter from St. Paul to the Philippians, all reinforcing themes of hope, strength, peace, and God's enduring love. Prayers were offered for the deceased, his family, and all those who mourn. The Nicene Creed and the Lord's Prayer were recited, affirming core Christian beliefs.

Conclusion and Commendation

The service concluded with a final commendation of Richard Bruce Cheney to God's mercy, with prayers for his eternal rest and peace. The congregation was encouraged to go forth in the name of Christ. The hymns sung at the end, such as "Mine Eyes Have Seen the Glory" and "It Is Well With My Soul," further emphasized themes of faith, sacrifice, and the ultimate peace found in God.

Synthesis and Conclusion

The funeral service for Richard Bruce Cheney was a comprehensive tribute to a life marked by significant public service, profound family devotion, and remarkable personal resilience. Speakers consistently portrayed him as a man of deep conviction, unwavering loyalty, and quiet strength. His dedication to his country was a central theme, underscored by his understanding of the sacrifices made for freedom. Equally prominent was his love for his family, particularly his wife, daughters, and grandchildren, who were the source of his greatest joy. His health challenges were presented not as a weakness, but as a testament to his fortitude and the advancements of medical science. The service emphasized the enduring power of faith, offering comfort and hope in the face of loss, and celebrating a life lived with purpose and integrity. The overarching message was one of gratitude for his service, love for his family, and a belief in eternal peace.