Psalm 116:15 Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints.
I help conduct a Bible Study every Friday morning at a local retirement center. The girls I work with are dear friends and the people to whom we minister become precious friends. The sad part of our ministry there is getting to know and love the residents and then losing them to death. I imagine we have lost some 20 friends in the years we have been conducting this ministry.
Today was one of those days. I knocked on the door of sweet Jean's room and then someone walking by told me she had passed on Monday. Just last Friday I pushed Jean in her wheelchair to the Bible Study. She was a very young 81-year-old and so witty and vivacious ~~ but suffering with emphasema. We laughed every week because at the same time on the dot of every Bible lesson, her cell phone would ring, she would dig it out of her purse, and "stage" whisper to the person on the other end that she was in "church" and would call back later. It was a blessing to know that one of her family members or perhaps a close friend was so faithful to make that Friday morning call. They didn't need to make that call today.
Jean confessed to know Christ as Savior so we know where she was when it was time for Bible Study this morning. Her place was empty and we missed her but rejoiced to know that she is with JESUS CHRIST and is enjoying the benefits of Heaven.
Her obituary is in today's newspaper. I want to post it in loving memory of Jean, but I will leave out names of people and towns in order to protect the privacy of her family. Jean, I'll see you one of these Fridays~~~ up there!!!
JEAN
1926-2008
Born October 29, 1926, in Dothan, AL, Jean was the youngest of nine children, five brothers and three sisters. Her mother died due to complications of childbirth and she was raised by her eldest sister, Helen. With the family split between relatives, they grew closer and loved each other even more.
Jean played basketball for Malvern School in Slocomb, AL. She married young and spent her life in love with Edgar who preceded her in death in 1994. She returned to school in the 1960's and earned her Bachelors Degree at U.W.F. and taught elementary school for 13 years.
She is survived by two sons, Thomas and his wife, Alice; Steven and his wife, Debbie. Also, grandchildren, who she loved very much, Dana and husband, Cliff; Aaron and wife, Natalie; and Travis.
Jean was always a gracious hostess to her many friends and family. She also enjoyed playing cards with friends, quilting, painting, crocheting and knitting. She was an active member and loved attending her Baptist Church.
After moving to the retirement center, she attended church services there and took part in all their many activities. The entire family would like to thank the caring staff of the retirement center and of Hospice. We truly do appreciate everything.
.JPG)
