The possible difference in this case may be whether or not the vet had come to Christ through repentance. That was not mentioned in the article. It’s omitting that info LEADS me to believe that the man was not saved. There is a vast difference between your friend and the message at his funeral and the funeral of an open and unrepentant homosexual.
People with besetting sins have church services all the time. Why should homosexuality be considered a greater sin than lying, cheating, having affairs, etc.
This church missed an opportunity to speak to people who really, really need to hear the gospel. I consider that to be a grievous sin.