Many of my MCC friends have by now heard that Loretta Blackwell has passed from this life into the place Jesus has prepared for her. To say she was a wonderful person would be an understatement. I only knew her for about nine years. Her and Elmer introduced themselves when Kim and I had come up to visit the Brownings less than a year before I came on staff here. They were more than friendly faces and a firm hand shake. Something about them made me feel like they were interested in me; that they cared.
In May of 2000, my family moved to the ‘burg and began serving. During that first week, a disk in my back ruptured and I had to have surgery. My seven day hospital stay helped me get aquainted with Elmer and Loretta. They saw me almost every day. Elmer with his stories and jokes, Loretta with her kind words and comforting presence.
I quickly learned that I didn’t get special treatment from the Blackwells. Coming, caring and comforting was simply who they were. They have changed the flavor of MCC. Their faith in action approach to Christ following has rubbed off on others. I knew I would have to leave early if I was going to beat them to a hospital visit. They knew it was important to show people that they matter to God.
They painted a clear picture of a loving couple too. You could see that from the way they treated each other they were as much in love as ever. The way one would speak about the other was an indicator of the value they placed upon their marriage. Always together.
I wonder if they realized what they were doing? Did they know they were accomplishing much more than the work at hand. They were mapping an easy to follow pattern for those behind to follow. Well done Loretta. I’m sure you have heard those words from Jesus too. Well done!
by Martha Miller McDaniel, on 03.11.09 @ 1:18 pm
She and Elmer worked with the youth group when I was in jr high and high school. She was a wonderful Christian lady. Could you please let me know when the visitation and funeral are? Your wife will know who I am. Thanks, Martha Miller McDaniel
by Debbie Blackwell Buckley, on 03.17.09 @ 3:36 pm
Rich,
Thank you for such kind words about Mom and Dad. I couldn’t have said it any better. It has been my privilege to be their daughter all these years. They have taught me what to be and what not to be. My children love to call Grandpa and share their lives with him. And the best part is, he’s really interested in them! And never forgets a thing they’ve said. Your words at Mom’s funeral were exactly the right description. She was always the steady rock. I miss her terribly but am so happy to know that she’s dancing on the streets of gold with rivers of chocolate around her. And I’m sure she’ll always have a strawberry milkshake nearby.
Debbie Blackwell Buckley
by Debbie Buckley, on 03.21.09 @ 10:07 am
Rich,
I thought I had already commented on your beautifully written thoughts about my parents, but perhaps I missed a button! You are so dear to publish this. My parents have always been pretty special to me, but it truly makes them seem even better when I read what you have to say. I’ve wondered this week if there is something wrong with me that I’m not mourning Mom’s loss more than I am, but I think that I can honestly say that there’s just no fear in me about never seeing her again. I know she’s awaiting us just around the bend–in her black satin dancing shoes. I hpe we get to keep Daddy for years to come, but I would also understand if the Lord is ready for him as well. This is probably the most quiet Mom has ever known!
Thank you, Rich.
Debbie Blackwell Buckley