Dumbledore's death

[j_m_arff]

No: HPFGUIDX 164295

Hello, I'm rather new to this site and am really relieved to find that
so many other adults enjoy the books as much as I do and ponder them...
however, there is a question I've so far unsatisfactorily been
discussing within my circle of friends, and we haven't come to any
conclusion so far.
The question is: Is Dumbledore (sorry I'm afraid I'll have to learn
those abbreviations) truly dead?
There are a few points, that make his death suspicious, as for
instance the fact, that he has been killed by Snape with the "Avada
Kedavra", but rather than sinking to the floor, as other victims of
the curse have been reported dying, Dumbledore is "Blasted into the
air" and then falls over the railing to the ground.
Another point is, that after the burial ceremony Dumbledore's resting
place errupts into white flames, and then is concealed by smoke, in
which Harry seems to detect Fawks flying away "joyfully". Bearing in
mind, that the phoenix has healing powers and the ability to carry
heavy burdens, he could have well taken Dumbledore with him.

I'm not fully convinced, as I believe, that JKR so far has let the
people in the books who have died rest in peace, and no one has
returned from the dead (well, Voldemort sort of, I suppose) and I can
see, where it is important for Harry's developement to stand on his
own two feet. However this idea has left the trace of a doubt within
me, and I also think, that Dumbledore could be of great help to Harry,
if he was operating under the public belief of his death. Nevertheless
I would like to hear, what you think of this, and if you can
contribute to draw a clearer picture. thank you!
J.