My condolences on the loss of your mother, mrsstats.
I lost my own mother 14 years ago, and you know what gets me to this day? Reading the "Footprints" poem. She adored it; we had it printed on the prayer cards given out at her wake and funeral. I can't read it without tearing up.
"Here I Am, Lord" is my absolute favorite hymn. I'd like it played at my own funeral, which I hope and pray won't happen for at least 40 years.
Jeesh, I'm almost tearing up hear just thinking of all these great hymns!
I always get the chills when I hear "Here I am Lord", one of my favorites since I was little. I don't really associate it with death as much as just being open to God's calling for you. "Bread of Life". now that is a real tearjerker! Especially the "raise you up" part!
It's OK to cry in church. Don't let that keep you away. Music is meant to move us and touch our hearts. Many pieces of music move me like that. Where better to be than at church surrounded by the people who love you.