Obituaries from 2006

(Listed alphabetically)

Dr. Raymond Alber died July 14 at age 90. The Omaha, NE, native was the son of John G. and Mabel Goss Alber. He was a builder of churches, holding pastorates in Nebraska, Florida, West Virginia, and California. He was a graduate of Phillips University, Enid, OK, and also studied at Butler School of Religion, Indianapolis, IN, and Cotner College on the campus of the University of Nebraska. In 1972, he was awarded the Honorary Doctor of Divinity degree from Kentucky Christian College. He headed the Alber Evangelistic Party, wrote a booklet, “The Church of the New Testament,” and with his father co-authored a booklet, “The Claims of Christ.” He served two years as president of the National Evangelistic Association, as well as serving on many other boards and committees, including the European Evangelistic Society and Milligan College.  He served for 13 years as vice president in charge of development with Emmanuel School of Religion, which he helped to found. He traveled extensively. He was a Mason and active in community service clubs. He served as secretary of the Greater Miami Ministerial Alliance and was vice president of the Ventura (CA) County Ministerial Alliance. He was a member of the Central Committee for the Billy Graham Greater Florida Crusade. He was preceded in death by his wife, Elizabeth Cheatham Alber, and one brother, Royal Alber. Survivors include one son, Gary of Johnson City, TN; one daughter, Ann Marie Alber of Hendersonville, TN; and one brother, Harold of Davenport, IA. Memorial services were conducted July 16 at Emmanuel School of Religion. Burial was July 18 at Paris, IL. Memorial gifts may be made to the Raymond Alber Development Suite at Emmanuel School of Religion, 1 Walker Dr., Johnson City, TN 37601. Condolences may be sent to the family online via www.appalachianfuneralhome.com.

Ken Anderson, 87, an author and filmmaker, died March 12. He was born Dec. 23, 1917, in Buena Vista County, IA. He attended Wheaton (IL) College and Trinity of Deerfield, IL, where he met Doris Jones, whom he married Nov. 16, 1938. He pastored with Evangelical Free churches in Isle, MN, and Newman Grove, NE, before becoming editor of Youth for Christ”s ministry magazine. In 1948 he traveled to China and together with Bob Pierce preached to tens of thousands of young people. He later wrote a book about the trip titled This Way to the Harvest. He wrote and directed his first dramatic films while working with Baptista Films, a pioneer in Christian film production. In 1949, the Anderson family moved to Muskegon, MI, where Mr. Anderson established his own Christian film ministry, Gospel Films, and produced at least one new film each year through 1960. That year he established Ken Anderson Films in Warsaw, IN, with a vision to make films to reach foreign audiences for Christ. He produced more than 200 Christian films””many of them original dramas made in foreign countries. Among them is Pilgrim”s Progress (1977), which features Liam Neeson in his first screen role. Mr. Anderson helped a number of people enter Christian film. He taught audiovisual evangelism and journalism to national Christian leaders from around the world. Today the ministry of InterComm continues to equip such men and women with tools to assist their evangelism vision for their countries. He also wrote 77 books, including Where to Find It in the Bible (1996). In addition to his widow, Doris, he is survived by seven children: Naoma Clark, Margaret Mauzy, Donn, Lane, Max, Ken D., and Melody Anderson; 13 grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren. Memorials may be sent to InterComm Inc., P.O. Box 618, Winona Lake, IN 46590 (www.intercommedia.org/index.htm).

Christian minister Ernest L. Barrett, 64, of Seaman, OH, died March 6. He was born in Bloomington, IL, on July 10, 1941, the son of the late Linus and Laura Mae (Barnes) Barrett. He graduated from Great Lakes Christian College, Lansing MI, in 1968 with a BRE. He ministered with churches in New Point and Lucerne, IN; Payne, Montpelier, and Seaman, OH; and Lockport and Ferris, IL. He served as lifeguard at Lake James Christian Assembly, Angola, IN, and as camp manager of Wonder Valley Christian Assembly in Salem, IN. He and his wife served as houseparents at Woodburn (IN) Christian Children”s Home. He is survived by his widow, Pat (Beck) Barrett; four children, Edward, Mark, Kristy Maynard, and Jeff; and eight grandchildren. His funeral service was conducted March 9 in Seaman with Tom Claibourne and David Shelton officiating.

Rolellen “Rolly” May Bigelow, 78, died Sept. 4. She was born to Theodore Hedley and Esther Dahlgren Dunham in San Jose, CA, on Nov. 2, 1927. She was a sophomore at Turlock (CA) High School when she became a Christian. After graduation, she attended San Jose (CA) Bible College. On July 27, 1948, she married Wayne Bigelow. She was known for her hospitality, often serving Sunday lunch to 12 to 15 friends and family members. She hosted extended visits from family, exchange students, college students, and others who needed a fresh start in her home. Each Sunday evening for many years, 20 to 100 members of youth group would gather in her family room. She worked at camps, VBS, and Sunday school. She loved making clothes and cooking for others. She invested her life in her husband, children, and grandchildren. In addition to her husband, Wayne, she is survived by two sons, Marcus and Jeff; two daughters, Jane and Beverly; eight grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; two brothers, Ted and Paul; and three sisters, Henrietta, Norma, and Nancy. She was preceded in death by one sister, Phyllis. Services were conducted Sept. 9 at Adventure Christian Church.

Helen N. Bright, 93, died April 19 at her home in Ocala, FL. She was born Dec. 2, 1912, to Duncan David and Bertha Williamson in Bluffton, OH. She received her BA from Bluffton College in 1934. She served in ministries in West Mansfield, OH; Rushsylvania, OH; Waynesville, OH; McLeansboro, IL; Petersburg, IN; Louisville, KY; and Wabash, IN alongside her husband, Herbert Graham (who died in 1959). She earned an MA from Ball State University, worked at Goodwill Industries in Kentucky and at Wabash Metropolitan School District, and put her four children through college. In 1971, she married widowed minister Gerald D. Bright, and together they served at Kentucky Christian University where he was an instructor and she was bookstore manager. They had preaching ministries in Buckeye, Winslow, and Tolleson, all in Arizona, as well as working with TCM in Austria and London Christian Mission. In addition to her husband, Gerald, Mrs. Bright is survived by her children, David Graham, Sharon Carter, Bertha Huffschmidt, and Larry Graham; stepchildren, Charles “Tim” Bright and Donna Bowden; 26 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren. A service was conducted at Central Christian Church in Ocala, FL, and a graveside service will take place in Zanesfield, OH, July 1, following the North American Christian Convention, something she loved to attend. Monetary memorials may be made to any of the Lord”s ministries. Gerald will be living with his daughter and would love to receive cards at 57 W. Church St., Stanton, KY 40380.

J. Thomas “Tom” Brown, 83, died “with his shoes on” Oct. 27 at his farm in Bozoo, WV. After being called to the ministry at age 39, he entered Atlanta (GA) Christian College in 1962. He left a successful career in construction, but worked at ACC overseeing several building projects while putting himself and his oldest daughter through college there. Tom and Susan graduated together in 1966. He led churches in Georgia and West Virginia during a ministry of more than 40 years. He was a quintessential soul-winner. He had carpentry, farming, ministry, and people skills and could converse with anyone. He often would remodel and roof while winning souls. Nearly 700 people were baptized into Christ by his evangelistic efforts. His influence further rippled into the lives of those who attended Christian Acres Camp and Bluefield College of Evangelism. Mr. Brown was a driving force in the conception, construction, and continued success of both institutions. He was president of Bluefield College of Evangelism and served on its board of directors until his death. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Nellie Carter Brown; four children; eight grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

Geneva Giles Burton, 88, widow of Richard Charles Burton, died Oct. 20, 2006, in Grayson, KY. She was born July 18, 1918, in Scott County, KY, the daughter of George Weber Giles and Azella Beatrice Tucker Giles. Richard and Geneva met as students at Cincinnati (OH) Bible Seminary (CBS) and were married Dec. 24, 1939. The couple celebrated 60 years of marriage in 1999. She served 60 years alongside her husband in ministries with Christian churches and churches of Christ in Ohio, Illinois, Indiana, and Kentucky. The final 18 years of ministry were with the Corinth Christian Church, Stamping Ground, KY. She served as assistant librarian at CBS from 1967 until retirement in 1983. In 1977, she received the BS degree from CBS, and also the Delta Aleph Tau award for distinguished service and scholarship from that institution. After moving to Grayson in 1996, she was a member of the First Church of Christ. Surviving are one daughter, Dr. Rosalyn Ruffner of Grayson; one son, Dr. Richard G. Burton of Coralville, IA; four grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. Funeral services were conducted Oct. 24 in Grayson, with Roger Rankin and Dr. Kail Ruffner officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to the Burton”“Ruffner Scholarship, Kentucky Christian University, 100 Academic Parkway, Grayson, KY 41143.

Jack E. Busby, 78, died July 24 in Greenville, IL. He was born in Cromwell, OK, on April 27, 1928, the son of Charles P. and Gladys Beatty Busby. He married Ruby Lee Valerius in 1952, and she preceded him in death on Jan. 14, 1991. He served as minister with the Brownstown (IL) Christian Church; Pana (IL) Christian Church; Dodge City (KS) Christian Church; First Christian of Salem, IL; Shelbyville (IL) First Christian Church; Central and First Christian churches of Greenville, IL; and Woburn (IL) Church of Christ. He graduated from Lincoln (IL) Bible Institute and was involved in evangelistic work and travels domestically and internationally. He won the Illinois State Fiddle Contest four different times. Survivors include his sons, Jeffrey and Lonnie.

Russell Casey, 88, of Sapulpa, OK, died Jan. 19 at St. John Sapulpa hospital. He was born Jan. 9, 1918, in Correctionville, IA, to Charles and Amy Casey. After graduation from high school, he enrolled at Minnesota Bible College. In fall 1938, he left for school with only $16 in his pocket. In fall 1943 he transferred to Cincinnati Bible Seminary, where he met his future wife, Ollie Mae. They were married in 1944 and served God together for nearly 60 years. After graduation from CBS, they moved to Iowa where he became full-time minister with the Hampton church, which he served nearly 16 years. Then he started a new church in Marshalltown, IA, where he served until moving to Sapulpa in 1972. Mr. Casey served as senior minister with First Christian Church of Sapulpa for 15 years. After retiring, he served as visitation minister. He served in ministry for 65 years. He was preceded in death by his wife, Ollie Mae; one son, David; one brother, Jim; and two sisters, Letha and Lou. He is survived by two daughters, Cheryl Little of Sapulpa and Elaine Hutchison of Paris,KY; two brothers, Roger of Correctionville, IA, and John of Seattle, WA; four grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. The funeral was conducted Jan. 23 at First Christian Church in Sapulpa with Jim Hutchison, Roy Blackmore, and Phil Casey officiating. Burial was at Memorial Park, Tulsa, OK. The family requests memorials to LATM Ministry or Ozark Christian College, both in Joplin, MO.

Kyle D. Chamberlain, 79, of Pittsfield, IL, died Nov. 14, 2006. He was born March 16, 1927, and married Marilyn E. Kiser on June 7, 1953, at the Detroit (IL) Christian Church. He was a member of Detroit Christian Church for 52 years, and served as deacon and elder for 40 years. He also served as camp manager at Mississippi Valley Christian Service Camp, Detroit, IL, for many years. In addition to his wife, Marilyn, he is survived by two daughters, Kylene Worstell and Paula McLaughlin; one brother, Neal; three sisters, Ruth Weil, Ester Bowen, and Marilyn Mathews; and four grandchildren. Funeral services were conducted Nov. 20 at Detroit Christian Church.

Robert Edward Coleman Jr., 85, died July 13 in Clearwater, FL. He was born in Savannah, GA, on Sept. 24, 1920. He married Gaynell Mallory in 1943. He graduated from Cincinnati (OH) Bible Seminary in 1947. The Colemans served in ministry with Grassy Creek Christian Church in Pendleton County, KY; Union City Christian Church in Richmond, KY; Central Christian Church in Tampa, FL; First Christian Church in Clearwater, FL; and First Christian Church inDunedin, FL. He served as president of Clearwater Ministerial Association and the Upper Pinellas Ministers Association. Mr. Coleman served as president of the Florida Christian Convention and vice president of the North American Christian Convention. Lovingly known as “Preacher Bob,” he was instrumental in planting several Christian churches in Florida. He was involved in many civic organizations including the Juvenile Welfare Board, Clearwater Library Board, Lions and Jaycee clubs, the United Fund, Rotary, and as trustee of Morton Plant Hospital. He was named a Paul Harris Fellow by the Rotary and “Mr. Clearwater.” He was a member of the Eckerd Youth Foundation Board for 37 years. In the 1950s he had a radio program called “Preacher Bob”s Study” on WTAN in Clearwater. He was preceded in death by one son, Robert E. III, and two daughters, Karen and Elizabeth Ann. He is survived by his widow; 10 grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren. The funeral was conducted July 17 at First Christian Church in Clearwater, with Rick Starr, Paul Neal, Ed Guy, Betsy Jones, and Harold Armstrong participating. Burial was at Sylvan Abby Memorial Park in Clearwater.

D.J. Colter, 91, of Winston-Salem, NC, died June 16. He was born Sept. 6, 1914, in Colquitt County, GA, to Daniel Jackson and Mary Elizabeth McCranie Coulter. He served in the U.S. Navy as an electrician. He eventually opened his own business, Colter Electric Company, which he ran until age 88. He served as director on the Winston-Salem Chamber of Commerce and as president of the North Carolina Electrical Contractors Association. He was an active member of the Ardmore Church of Christ in Winston-Salem, serving on the church board for 50 years. He also served as chairman of Winston-Salem Bible College, board member of Central African Mission, director on the board of Fellowship of Associates of Medical Evangelists, and as founding member and president of the Piedmont Christian Credit Union. He is survived by his wife, Beulah Nance Colter; two sons, Daniel Wayne and Terry L., both of Winston-Salem; one daughter, Carolyn Barlow of Winston-Salem; four grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and one brother, Roy. Funeral services were conducted June 21 at Ardmore Church of Christ, Dr. Dennis Pruitt and David Woolard officiating. Memorials may be made to the Ardmore Church of Christ or Winston-Salem Bible College.

Loretta Sarah (Thomas) Dietz died Jan. 31, 2006, in Joplin, MO. She was born May 3, 1926, in Denver, CO. She graduated from high school in Hot Springs, SD, and was the first graduate of Dakota Bible College, Arlington, SD. She attended graduate classes at Cincinnati (OH) Bible Seminary and later earned a teacher”s degree from Benedictine College, Atchison, KS. She was married to Floyd Dietz from Dec. 13, 1948, until his death in 2001; 44 of their years together were spent in Christian ministry with churches in Minnesota, South Dakota, North Dakota, Kansas, and Missouri. The longest tenure was 24 years with the Christian Church in DeKalb, MO. She taught at Rushville (MO) Elementary School for 20 years. She participated with the DeKalb Homecoming Association and was a volunteer at Spring River Christian Village, Joplin, MO. For more than 30 years she wrote a weekly news column for a county paper. She is survived by one brother, Dennis Thomas, and one sister, Leona Thomas, both of California; her children, Charlie and Judy Dietz of Ooltewah, TN, Velma and Al Corson of Casper, WY, Mary and Jim Genandt of Miami, OK, and Twyla and Bob Dishong of Gretna, NE; 17 grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. A memorial service was conducted Feb. 4 at the DeKalb Christian Church. Ministers participating in the service were Tim Champ, Charlie Dietz, Paul Dietz, Kent Klundt, Ralph Mehrens, Alvin Reed, and Leon Weece. Memorials may be made to White Fields Overseas Evangelism, P.O. Box 1089, Joplin, MO 64802.

Former Church Development Fund Chief Executive Officer Ralph Dornette died Aug. 31 at his home in Hemet, CA. A graduate of Cincinnati (OH) Bible College, his first full-time ministry was with Indian Creek Christian Church in Cynthiana, KY. He also started 50 churches in Ohio, Oklahoma, and California. Mr. Dornette was called by the Southern California Evangelistic Association to serve as executive director in 1958. The Dornette family moved from a ministry in Muskogee, OK, to begin planting new churches in Southern California; one of the churches was Eastside Christian Church in Fullerton, which Mr. Dornette founded and led for six years. In 1968 he was asked to lead the Churches of Christ Building and Loan Fund, which later came to be known as Church Development Fund. He served it as CEO until his retirement in 1994, except for a two-year hiatus in 1976-77 to teach at Cincinnati Bible Seminary. Under his leadership, CDF grew from $750,000 in total assets to nearly $70 million, funding 300 loans for a total of approximately $60 million. He is survived by his widow, Betty; one daughter, Cindy; and two grandchildren. Messages of condolence may be sent to Betty Dornette, 2133 Begonia Court, Hemet, CA 92545. His services were conducted Sept. 5 at Eastside Christian Church, Fullerton, CA.

Preston Duhon, 80, died Sept. 7. He was born Nov. 1, 1925, in Rayne, LA, to Pamela and Simeon Duhon. He served in the Navy on the aircraft carrier USSLexington during World War II. He married Mary Nell Marcantel in 1947. He attended Minnesota Bible College 1954″“56. He worked for more than 50 years in the automobile industry and owned his own auto body repair shop. He was an avid fisherman and gardener, but loved cooking most of all. He often cooked for area men”s meetings at the local church and many considered him the best “Cajun chef” in “Cajun country.” He was an active member of the Church of Christ in Crowley, LA. He served as a Sunday school teacher and was a longtime elder. In addition to his wife of 58 years, he is survived by two sons, Richard and Randy. Two brothers, Remi and Percy, preceded him in death.

Marjorie Rose Felton, 92, died Feb. 21. She was preceded in death by her husband of 65 years, Virgil (Mr. Felton died February 14; his obituary is below),and her parents, Joe and Mae Wilkinson. She was born in Albia, IA, on Aug. 15, 1913. She graduated from Albia High School and Ottumwa Business School. She began singing the blues after high school, and sang gospel music throughout her life. On Sept. 12, 1940, she married Virgil Felton and began a lifetime of Christian ministry. She worked for the Social Security Administration and the Michigan Senate as a clerk. The majority of her work, however, centered on starting new churches. Starting in 1945 in Kentucky, moving to Michigan in 1951, and continuing for 50 years, the couple worked together as a team in this endeavor. Marjorie supported Virgil”s vision, did secretarial work, played piano, sang, visited, encouraged, and gave of herself freely in any way needed. They founded New Churches of Christ Evangelism, born of Virgil”s dream and supported by Marjorie”s commitment, unselfish love, and efforts. Marjorie was a loving and giving mother who believed in her children. Her family was of utmost importance to her. She raised them with a strong faith in God and demonstrated his love and acceptance to them. She is survived by two children, Lorna Boes and Gentry Felton; three grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. Funeral services were conducted Feb. 25 at the West Lansing Church of Christ, with Paul Stacy officiating. This was the first church Feltons established in Michigan. Memorials may be given to New Churches of Christ Evangelism, Box 508, Vestaburg, Michigan 48891.

Virgil Felton, 89, died Feb. 14 in Kalamazoo, MI. He was born July 11, 1916, in Albia, IA, to Harry and Bertha Felton. He married Marjorie Wilkinson on Sept. 12, 1940 (Mrs. Felton died February 21; her obituary is above). Mr. Felton received a bachelor”s degree from Cincinnati (OH) Bible Seminary and a master”s degree from Butler School of Religion (Indianapolis, IN). He was also awarded an honorary doctorate for new church work. The Feltons spent 50 years in the ministry of new church planting. They began their ministry in the Lexington, KY, area in 1945, founding Tates Creek Christian Church. In 1951 they moved to Lansing, MI, and formed New Churches of Christ Evangelism. For 35 years they directed the organization as it planted 46 churches in Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio, plus an outreach to Florida congregations and a new church in Jerusalem, Israel. He also was instrumental in starting the Michigan Christian Convention and Michigan Christian Campus Ministries. Mr. Felton faithfully preached God”s Word, planned and promoted new church starts, and even helped to lay bricks. He received many honors: the Golden Eagle Award from the Cincinnati Bible Seminary (CBS) Alumni Association; the Alumni Anchor Award from CBS; God”s Honored Servant Award from the National Missionary Convention and the North American Christian Convention; the Distinguished Service Award from Great Lakes Bible College; the James A. Garfield Award from Emmanuel School of Religion; and awards from the National New Church Conference and the Christian Holy Land Foundation. The Feltons spent many retirement years in Florida and the Lansing, MI, area, but recently moved to Park Place Assisted Living in Kalamazoo. He is survived by one son, Gentry; one daughter, Lorna Boes; three grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by three brothers: Billy, Robert, and Harry. A memorial service was conducted Feb. 16 at the West Lansing Church of Christ, Paul Stacy officiating. Ron Scott, former director of New Churches of Christ Evangelism, spoke, and Randy Penwell, the present director, led in prayer. Memorials may be sent to NCCE, P.O. Box 508, Vestaburg, MI 48891.

Margaret “Boots” Sweeney Foley died Nov. 6, 2006, at her home in Lexington, KY. She was born in Johnson City, TN, the daughter of William Elza Sweeney (a founder and president of the North American Christian Convention) and Mary Gooch Anderson Sweeney. She grew up in Lexington and attended Broadway Christian Church where her father was minister. She graduated from Transylvania University, Lexington. She married Woodrow “Woody” Foley in 1949 and they were married more than 50 years. She taught fourth grade in the Lexington public schools and was active in many ministries at Broadway. She served on the board of directors of the Christian Church Homes of Kentucky”s campus for children at Danville. She was an excellent pianist. One of her delights was the support and encouragement of ordained Christian ministers. She is survived by two daughters, Margaret Sweeney Foley Case of Danville,KY, and Mary Ellen Foley of Guildford, Surrey, England; one sister, Susan Sweeney Schultz of Springfield, VA; and one brother, William E. Sweeney ofLongview, TX. Services were conducted Nov. 8 at Broadway Christian Church, with burial at the Sweeney Family plot at the Paris (KY) Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Blue Grass Christian Camp, 7463 Athens-Boonesboro Road, Lexington, KY 40507.

Betty Ruth (Stauffer) Foster, 86, widow of the late Lewis Alvin Foster, died Nov. 30 in Cincinnati, OH. She was a teacher, encourager, and friend to many. She is survived by one son, Dennis; three daughters, Jane Ann Gutridge, Beth Holzbauer, and Gail Jones; 10 grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren. Visitation and funeral services were conducted Dec. 3.

Alvin Lee Giese, 91, died Oct. 24 at Toulon (IL) Rehabilitation and Health Care Center. Born April 11, 1915, in Powell, WY, the son of Levi and Chloey (Rounds) Giese, he married Mary Maxey on June 6, 1939, in Minneapolis. He was a minister for many years at churches in Minnesota, Nebraska, and Iowa, last serving with the Storm Lake (IA) Church of Christ for 33 years, retiring in 1981. Prior to serving in the ministry, he was a teacher and farmer. He was a member of the Storm Lake Rotary Club, a trustee for Nebraska Christian College, and a member of the Christian Evangelistic Mission Board of Directors. In addition to his widow, Mary, he is survived by two sons, Brian of Kewanee, IL, and Gary of Maryville, TN; six grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and one brother, Glenn of Wauconda, IL.

Charles Buckner Green, 100, died May 29. He was born at Des Moines, IA, May 12, 1906. He married Louise Roll in 1927 and they had two daughters, Mary Louise and Martha. After Louise”s death in 1954, Mr. Green was married to Gladys Clay from 1958 until her death in 1978. Mr. Green married his third wife, Toni Moschel, in 1982; she passed away in 2003. Mr. Green was employed as a communications engineer and physicist with Bell Telephone Laboratories and was active in Christian churches in New York City, New Jersey, and Indiana from 1928 to 1962. In 1944, he was cofounder and treasurer of Eastern Christian Institute. This Bible college impacted the growth of New Testament Christianity on the Eastern seaboard and later became Lincoln Christian College-East Coast (Bel Air, MD). After retirement from secular employment, he spent two years of graduate work at Lincoln (IL) Christian Seminary, then became the first located minister of the Huntsville (AL) Christian Church. In 1966 he became associate minister of the Englewood Christian Church, Indianapolis (IN). While there, he helped lay the groundwork for Village Christian Parke, a retirement home in Zionsville, IN. In 1969, Green was called to Mount Healthy Christian Home (Cincinnati, OH) to serve as business manager and later as assistant administrator. In 1972, the Greens moved to serve with South Daytona (FL) Christian Church. He was minister to the shut-ins of the South Daytona church and Gladys was church secretary. In late 1978 he moved to Mount Healthy Christian Home. He participated in a short-term mission project in London, England, in 1981. He is survived by two daughters, Louise Green Clites and Martha “Julie” Green Newby, both of Johnson City, TN; six grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren. A celebration of his life was conducted June 10 at Mount Healthy Christian Home, chaplain Richard Baynes officiating.

Frank Arthur Grubbs, 91, died Dec. 2, 2006, at Universal Hospice and Palliative Care Center, Fort Worth, TX. He was born in Decatur, GA, on Jan. 24, 1915, to George Washington and Emma Boring Herndon Grubbs, who were the parents of five sons and two daughters. He married Anne Cleo Hart in 1937, and they had five children””Charles Arthur, Jean Ellen, George Allen, Patricia Ann, and Paula Faye. Cleo preceded him in death. He began his lifelong ministry by preaching in the Grant Park area of Atlanta, GA. After training at Cincinnati (OH) Bible Seminary, he ministered with East Side Christian Church, Pine Bluff, AR; Gould (AR) Christian; First Christian in Pauls Valley, OK; Dixon Street Christian, Gainesville, TX; First Christian in McAlester, OK (he also served as chaplain at the federal prison at McAlester); Woodland Christian (now Town and Country Christian), Greenville, SC; and Town and Country Christian, Yukon, OK. He also served as vice president of Dallas (TX) Christian College. From 1953 through 1958 he served as an evangelist based out of Muskogee, OK, with musicians Lloyd and Barbara Cameron, and he also worked with the Vernon Brothers (music evangelists). Additionally he held the positions of regional sales director and vice president of the Saladmaster Corp., Dallas, TX. His memorial service was conducted Dec. 5 at Crossroads Christian Church, Grand Prairie, TX, with Barry Cameron and Riley Donica officiating. Burial was at Pauls Valley, OK. He is survived by his widow, Lou; his children and stepchildren; 14 grandchildren; and 21 great- and great-great-grandchildren. His most recent endeavor was offering encouragement and support of the preacher training school of the North Andhra (India) Coastal Evangelizing Association. The NACEA board of directors has announced new facilities for the school will be dedicated in his memory. The family has requested that any memorials be made to this construction project at NACEA, designated for the Frank A. Grubbs Institute for Christian Studies, P.O. Box 2309, Washington, IN 47501.

Martha Louise Hadsall, 85, of Witt, IL, died Jan. 27 at Fair Havens Christian Home in Decatur, IL. Mrs. Hadsall was born July 3, 1920, in Long Creek, IL, the daughter of George and Martha (Novak) Peters. She married Howard H. Hadsall on Dec. 31, 1937, at her parents” home in Oakley, IL. Mr. Hadsall died March 17, 2000. She was a charter member of the Christian Church of Witt, where she taught children”s Sunday school for many years. She was also a very active member of the Christian Homemakers group. The Hadsalls will be remembered by many former students of Lincoln Christian College and St. Louis Christian College whom they welcomed into their home for many wonderful meals. Mrs. Hadsall had fond memories of working at the Decatur Garment Factory and at Ridgleydale Dairy in her youth. She had a genuine giving heart and enjoyed baking angel food cakes for her friends and church potlucks. She especially enjoyed her flower gardens. Survivors include four daughters, Marilyn Louise Gentle of Maroa, IL, Margaret Ann Ettling of Jackson, MO, Sharon Elizabeth Reynolds of Decatur, IL, and Linda Diane Lowe of Albion, IL; 13 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; one sister, Mary Anna Snoke of Cerro Gordo, IL; and one brother, Roy Peters of Pana, IL. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by an infant son; one great-granddaughter; two sisters; and three brothers. Services were conducted at the Christian Church of Witt on Jan. 30, with Steve Devore officiating. Burial was at Witt Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Christian Homemakers of the Christian Church of Witt (P.O. Box 408, 62094) or the Activities Department (bus fund) of Fair Havens Christian Home, 1790 S. Fairview Ave., Decatur, IL 62521.

Ralph Rhoads Harter, 81, died May 14 at Canton (OH) Christian Home. He was born Dec. 4, 1924, in Pittsburgh, PA, the son of Ralph Sr. and Louise Harter. He demonstrated skill early on in producing a newsletter for his Clinton (OH) community. He committed his life to Christ in 1935 and graduated from Cincinnati Bible Seminary in 1946. He departed for mission service in India and remained involved in mission work in Kanpur, India, for nearly 50 years. He spoke Hindi fluently, authored several books, and founded and operated a Christian bookstore. He also wrote for numerous publications. His evangelistic efforts resulted in the founding of several churches. His mission, under the auspices of his home congregation, HighPoint Christian Church, Clinton, OH, continues under the leadership of Amarjeet Singh. Mr. Harter was known for his unique sense of humor, love of opera, and humble spirit. He is survived by one sister, Phyllis Barber of Sevierville, TN. Funeral services were conducted in Canal Fulton, with Norman Maynard officiating, and Lee Turner, Ron Iwanusa, and Diane Koons participating. Burial was at the family plot in Clinton. Memorials may be made to the HighPoint Christian Church and designated for the India Mission.

Richard D. Hazeltine, 78, of Loves Park, IL, died June 9 in Provena Cor Mariae Center. He was born Oct. 25, 1927, in Beloit, WI, the son of Claron and Gladys (Taylor) Hazeltine. He married Lorraine Davidson on June 10, 1948. He did ministry work in Iowa, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Illinois. He was minister with Calvary Christian Church, Rockford, IL, from 1978 to 1987, and with First Christian Church, Glen Ellyn, IL. He also served as an elder and Sunday school teacher with Central Christian Church, Rockford. He also worked with Night Sounds in Rockford; after retirement, he and his wife distributed tapes and films to churches. Survivors include his widow, Lorraine; three daughters, Valerie K. Peck, Dr. Laura Hazeltine, and Donna (Alan) Brown; five grandchildren; and two sisters, Joan (Marion) Cain and Jean (Chris) Hansen. He was preceded in death by one daughter, Janet, and one son, Alan. A funeral service was conducted June 14, Willard Kelly officiating. Memorials may be made to Rio Bravo Christian Ministries.

Ronald Dean Hickerson, 77, of Overland Park, KS, died July 23 at his home. He was born Jan. 6, 1929, in Greenville, IL, the son of Ronald T. and Bonnie Hickerson. He married Kay Williams and later married Gloria Ammerman. He graduated from the University of Illinois in 1950. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army, serving in the Korean War. He graduated from Lincoln Christian College in 1956. He received his master”s degree from Central Missouri State University in 1981. He served churches in Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, and on the mission field in Germany. He later served as campus minister at Central State University, Warrensburg, MO, before beginning “In His Service,” an inner-city mission in Kansas City that he continued to serve until the time of his death. In addition to his widow, he is survived by two children, Dee Whitesell of Bel Air, MD, and Kevin Hickerson of Hood River, OR; two grandchildren; two brothers, Max and Kent; and one sister, Bonnie Lichtenberger. A memorial service was conducted July 27 at the Legacy Christian Church in Overland Park, Greg Cheatham officiating. Memorials may be made to “In His Service” Mission, c/o Legacy Christian Church, 10150 Antioch, Overland Park, KS 66212.

Charles Blakey Hicks Sr., 82, died Feb. 27, 2006. Mr. Hicks was born June 22, 1923, in Stephenville, TX, to Mary and Clay Hicks Sr. He served in the military in Word War II, achieving the rank of staff sergeant. In 1946 he married Laura Maxine Holmes. He worked for more than 50 years in the automobile body and repair business, owning his own shop. After their baptism in June 1963, Mr. Hicks and his family became active members of Southside Christian Church, Inglewood, CA. He served as a Bible school teacher, deacon, Sunday school superintendent, elder, and chairman of the board. In addition to his wife, he is survived by two sons, Charles and Raymond; seven grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

Robert D. “Bob” Hoffman, 57, died unexpectedly Dec. 12, 2006, at Firelands Regional Medical Center, Sandusky, OH. He was born Nov. 11, 1949, in Randolph County, IN, to Warren and Mary (Barr) Hoffman. He was a 1968 graduate of Angola (IN) High School and earned a BTh from Atlanta (GA) Christian College. He was a U.S. Army veteran of the Vietnam War. He came to First Christian Church, Sandusky, on March 18, 2006. He served with Meadowbrook Christian Church, Rochester Hills, MI, 1995-2004, and as associate pastor and a minister to the deaf with Mount Carmel Christian Church, Stone Mountain, GA, for 18 years. His hobbies included deer hunting and fishing. He is survived by his wife of 26 years, the former Rebecca A. Hyatt; one son, Charles W. “Woody,” and one daughter, Corrie E. Hoffman, both of Huron, OH; one sister, Jody Nagel of Angola, IN; and one brother, Danny of Illinois. He was preceded in death by two brothers, David and Greg. Services were conducted at First Christian Church, Sandusky, with a graveside committal service with full military honors at Circle Hill Cemetery, Angola, IN.

Dorothy Lillian Harris Hoven, 96, widow of Dr. Ard E. Hoven, died Jan. 15 at St. Joseph Hospital in Lexington, KY. The Peabody, MA, native was the daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Jesse Robbins and was educated in Massachusetts and at Cincinnati (OH) Bible Seminary. She was a dietician by training. While at Kentucky Christian University, as a college professor”s wife, she served the student body in a variety of roles and in particular mentored young women who would become active as minister”s wives and teachers. As a minister”s wife, she served as a Sunday school teacher and devotional speaker. She served with her husband at the Chase Avenue Christian Church in Cincinnati; Broadway Christian Church in Lexington; and First Christian Church in Columbus, IN. Mrs. Hoven was an active community volunteer involved in a variety of activities including the Girl Scouts, garden clubs, and homemakers organizations. She was a collector of antiques and her appreciation of them led her to England, Ireland, Germany, Switzerland, and Austria. At the time of her death, she was a member of Tates Creek Christian Church, Lexington, where she had been the Sunday school teacher of the Faith Class, and a member of the Hannah Lydia Women”s Circle. In addition, she continued through the years as a member of the Mary Collis Faith Circle at Broadway Christian Church. She is survived by two daughters, Ardis Dee Hoven, M.D., and Vicki Lee Hoven, and one grandchild. Funeral services were conducted Jan. 19 at Tates Creek Christian Church with James Walters, Brad Walden, and Tommy Simpson officiating. A private graveside service followed at Lexington Cemetery. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Ard Hoven Scholarship Fund at Kentucky Christian University, 100 Academic Parkway, Grayson, KY 41143.

John Deryle Huntington, 82, of Henderson, KY, died May 17. Born in Rush County, IN, to Calvert R. and Hazel M. Van Sickle Huntington, he received his AB from Cincinnati Bible Seminary and also attended Johnson Bible College and Northwest Missouri State Teachers College. He was ordained into the ministry in 1948 and served churches in Indiana, Kentucky, Iowa, Missouri, and Arkansas. He served in the U.S. Army from 1943 to 1946 in the Southern Philippines and Western Pacific campaigns. He later was an assistant field director for the American Red Cross, serving bases in the U.S. and Istanbul, Turkey. He was vice president and president of the Rotary Club in Arkansas. He enjoyed playing the organ and researching genealogy. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Lois Harshbarger Huntington, and second wife, Ina M. Chambliss McMullin; an infant son, Lawrence Eugene; and one stepson, Samuel O. McMullin. Survivors include two daughters, Mary Jobe and Lynda McMullin; five grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. Services were conducted at Benton-Glunt Funeral Home with Bob Hardison officiating. Graveside service was at Moscow Church Cemetery with Rod Cameron officiating. Memorials may be sent to Rainbow Christian Camp, 3522 N. 1000 W. 27, Converse, IN 46919.

Bob Johnson, 68, of Yellville, AR, died May 9. He was born in St. Louis, IL, on June 24, 1937, the son of Elijah and Opal (Hayes) Johnson. He held ministries in Illinois, Mississippi, Indiana, Missouri, and Arkansas, and worked for several years in missions in Haiti. At the time of his death, he was serving as minister with the Main Street Church of Christ (Christian) in Yellville. Mr. Johnson was a member of the Yellville Lions Club and the Marion County Ministerial Alliance. Survivors include his wife, Kay; four daughters, Donna Womer of Vincennes, IN, DeAnn McDowell and Sherri Yates, both of Dyersburg, TN, and Michelle Nunley of Corinth, MS; one brother, Clinton of Enfield, IL; and nine grandchildren. Graveside services were conducted at the Enfield (IL) Cemetery; a memorial service was held at Enfield Christian Church on May 12. Memorial contributions may be made to Main Street Church of Christ (Christian), Yellville, AR.

Robert R. Manship, 82, of Wesley Chapel, FL, died at his residence July 27. He was born May 21, 1924, in Lawrenceville, IL. He attended Lincoln (IL) Bible Institute (now Lincoln Christian College). He served 52 years as a minister for congregations in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee, North Carolina, Virginia, and Florida. Over the years, he held many revivals at churches throughout the Midwest. He also served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He is survived by two sons, Tom Manship of Chipley, FL, and Larry Deane Manship of Indianapolis, IN; one daughter, Janith Sue Mitchell of Wesley Chapel; 12 grandchildren; and 18 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Annabelle, in July 2005; and one son, Steven Dale Manship. Services were conducted Aug. 1 at Chancey Road Christian Church in Zephyrhills, FL. A graveside service followed at Florida National Cemetery with Tim Mitchell (his grandson) officiating. The deceased”s grandson Jonathan Manship, a minister with the Fortville Christian Church, as well as his son Larry, a minister with the Buck Creek Christian Church, both in Indiana, also shared in the service.

Vinita Matilda Mosher, 88, of St. James, MO, died Aug. 14. She was born Jan. 15, 1918, near St. James to committed Christian parents, August Carl and Etta Mary (Dean) Hoffmeister. She was immersed into Christ on Oct. 7, 1928; she was a devoted member of the St. James Christian Church from that day until her death. After great difficulty, she had a son, Rick, whom she dedicated to the ministry (much like Hannah did with Samuel). She also encouraged many others to enter the ministry. She served as treasurer of St. James Christian Church’s Missionary Mite for 34 years and was a cofounder of the Mosher Scholarship at St. Louis Christian College. Her impact on Christ’s kingdom was felt around the world, and the congregation sang “Send the Light” at her funeral services Aug. 17. Ken Vogel delivered the sermon that day, and Aaron Jeffers, Mike Pabarcus, and Rick Mosher also spoke. She is survived by one son and extended family.

Thomas L. Neff, 74, died at his home of cardiovascular failure on May 26. He served in the ministry for 53 years and was still active following his June 30, 2002, retirement. He faithfully served churches in West Virginia, Virginia, Kentucky, Ohio, California, and Colorado. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Lois Jean Drumpus Neff; and two children, Tim of Colorado Springs, CO, and Jodi Neff Wiles of Anaheim, CA. Condolences may be sent to Jean Neff at 205 N. Murray Blvd. #148, Colorado Springs, CO 80916-1108.

Robert Lionel “Bob” Nelson Sr., 80, of Fort Wayne, IN, died Jan. 22. He began his journey in Newberry, MI, on March 8, 1925, the sixth of nine children born to Albert E. and Ethel (Marble) Nelson. He attended Newberry High School and was a gifted athlete, excelling at football and track. Throughout his life, he enjoyed bowling and remained an avid sports enthusiast, and particularly enjoyed Detroit Tigers baseball and Indiana University basketball. He held a degree as an industrial engineer and worked for Clark Equipment Co., Buchanan, MI, for 14 years, before being called to serve his Lord. He was ordained into the ministry in March 1961 and served with churches of Christ in Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, and Georgia. He also held revivals throughout the country. He was actively involved in the organization of the Christian Service Camp in Niles, MI, and founded the Woodburn (IN) Christian Children”s Home. His missions work included two trips to Russia and many years in the prison ministry. He retired from the ministry in 1990, but continued to serve the Lord in his daily life. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Pauline (Stickney) Nelson; two daughters, Julaine Nelson of Cincinnati, OH, and Paula Atchley of Woodburn, IN; two sons, Robert Nelson Jr. of New Haven and Rodney Nelson of Harlan, IN; one sister, Jean Baber of Barren Springs, MI; one brother, George O. Nelson of Stony Point, NC; 11 grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by two brothers; four sisters; and an infant son. Burial was at Harlan (IN) Memorial Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Harlan Christian School Building Fund, 17108 SR 37 NE, Harlan, IN 46743.

Charles L. Pate, 67, of Atlanta, GA, died of cancer July 10. The 1963 graduate of Atlanta Christian College began his ministry with First Christian Church, Tucker, GA. In 1967 he became minister of Ben Hill Christian Church, Atlanta, where he served faithfully until his retirement in 2005. As the demographics of the Ben Hill church”s neighborhood changed, Pate made a point of welcoming people of all races to the congregation. He served on the boards of trustees at Winston-Salem (NC) Bible College and College of the Scriptures, Louisville, KY. He served on the board of directors and was cofounder of Jesus Place Inner City Mission in Atlanta, and was president of the Peach State Christian Convention. He received the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Service Award and a Distinguished Service Award from Atlanta Christian College. He held workshops, wrote articles, and spoke on cross-cultural evangelism. Survivors include his wife of 47 years, Ronelle Bass Pate; two daughters, Michele Hughes and Christy Stansberry; one son, Robby; two brothers, J.W. and Jimmy; and seven grandchildren. Funeral services were conducted July 14 at Bethany Christian Church, Carrollton, GA.

Leland Paul, 97, died Oct. 7 at Golden Years Homestead, Fort Wayne, IN. Born Sept. 12, 1909, in Buchanan, MI, he worked at a local factory until age 37. During that time he was an active member of the Buchanan Christian Church, serving as a deacon, elder, teacher, Sunday school superintendent, and youth sponsor. In 1946 he enrolled at Lincoln (IL) Bible Institute (now Lincoln Christian College), and held student ministries at Bismarck, IL, and State Line, IN. Ordained by the elders of the Buchanan church in July 1950, he held ministries in Paxton, IL, Macy and South Bend IN, Midland and Owosso, MI, and Warren, IN. In 1971 he and his wife, Wilma, joined the community of retired people doing volunteer work at Cookson Hills Children”s Home, Siloam Springs AK. The Pauls moved to Golden Years Homestead, Fort Wayne, in 1991 and became active members of Christ”s Church at Georgetown. While there, Mr. Paul preached his last sermon on his 90th birthday. His final years of service were with Christ”s Hope Ministries & Church, Fort Wayne, a congregation founded by his son. Mr. Paul is survived by Wilma, his wife of 73 years, one son, Jerry; five grandchildren; and 25 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by one daughter, Kaye Marie Gilpin, in 1979. The funeral service was conducted Oct. 11. Memorials may be sent to Golden Years Homestead, 8300 Maysville Road, Fort Wayne, IN 46815.

Dr. James Edward “Jim” Quisenberry, 74, of Morehead, KY, died at St. Claire Regional Medical Center in Morehead on Oct. 15, 2006. He was born Jan. 17, 1932, in Louisville, KY. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Martha Chelf Quisenberry; two daughters; and four grandchildren. Jim held an AA from Lindsey Wilson College (Columbia, KY); an AB from Kentucky Christian University (Grayson); an AB from Centre College (Danville, KY); an MA from the University of Kentucky (Lexington); and a PhD from Ohio University (Athens). He was an ordained minister who began preaching at age 18 and continued until his death. He served churches in Ohio and central Kentucky, including Orange Christian, Hemlock Grove Christian, Glensboro Christian, Mayo Christian, 25 years with Salt Lick Christian, and 10 years with Farmers Christian. He also went on several mission trips, helping to start churches in Russia, Ukraine, and China. He also was a teacher for 55 years, working at high schools in Boyle and Trimble counties (in Kentucky), and as a professor at Morehead (KY) State University, where he taught speech and communication until retirement.

Effie L. Rickard, 100, died in her sleep Aug. 31, 2006. She was born Dec. 17, 1905, in Ceres, CA, the fourth daughter of Fred and Annie Salter. She married Dennis B. Rickard in 1925 and worked with him in several part-time ministries while they attended Eugene (OR) Bible University. They served in full-time ministries from 1929-70 in Yamhill, OR, and Merced, La Habra, Santa Cruz, Redding, San Rafael, and Grass Valley, CA. They continued to be actively involved at First Christian Church in Santa Cruz after retiring there in 1970. Mr. Rickard died in 1990. Mrs. Rickard never retired from her service to the Lord; she served on the missions committee, and was involved in a weekly Bible study and Friday Friends. Her children have also been full-time Christian workers. She is survived by one brother, Wayne Salter; three children, Pauline Thomas, Marvin Rickard, and Rickie Clark; nine grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and two great-great grandchildren. Memorial contributions may be made to Osaka Bible Seminary, P.O. Box 1697, Columbia, MO 65205.

Robert H. Schondelmayer, 87, died Aug. 15 at his residence in Midland, MI, with family members at his side. He was born in West Liberty, IA, on March 1, 1919, the son of Harvey K. and Mary (Strong) Schondelmayer. In 1942, he graduated from Cincinnati (OH) Bible Seminary, married Marjorie A. Hepler, and began a career in ministry. The family moved to the Philippines in 1947 where they served in Cotabato, Mindanao, for three years. He served congregations in Akron, OH, Arlington and Griffith, IN, Chester, WV, and others. After the death of his first wife, he married Gloria J. Blankenship. He retired from full-time ministry at Midland (MI) Church of Christ in 1989. He enjoyed gardening, billiards, puzzles, camping, fishing, golf, and reading. In addition to his widow, Gloria, he is survived by two sons, Paul and Timothy; one daughter, Mary Beth Rentsch; five grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. Services were conducted Aug. 18 at Wilson Miller funeral home with Phil Smith officiating.

Wilma L. Shaffer, 89, died June 8 in Cincinnati, OH. She was born June 30, 1916, in Warrensburg, IL, the oldest child of Jasper and Ethel Hatfield; and sister of Mrs. Howard Moll and Kermit A. Hatfield. She graduated from Delta (OH) High School in 1934, and was married July 5, 1934, to Bruce H. Shaffer of Wauseon, OH. The couple had three children, Janice Jeanne (Mrs. Sonny Smith) of Richmond, VA, Lawrence Bruce (Saralee) Shaffer of Anderson, IN, and Roger Alan (Barbara) Shaffer of Ruffin, NC. Nine grandchildren and 26 great grandchildren complete this family circle. She taught Sunday school at Delta (OH) Church of Christ, sang in the choir, served as den mother for Cub Scouts, and as president of the Criterion Literary Club. Mrs. Shaffer received a BS degree from the University of Cincinnati, was active in a sorority and the Cincinnati Woman”s Club, and served as Regent of the Cincinnati chapter of Daughters of the American Revolution. She was employed 21 years at Standard Publishing as editor; she continued as editor and freelance writer after her retirement. She taught women”s classes in Cincinnati for more than 20 years. At the time of death she was a member of LifeSpring Christian Church. Services were conducted June 13 at the Paul Young Funeral Home, Mount Healthy, OH. Burial was at Spring Grove Cemetery, Cincinnati. Memorials may be made to the Delta Church of Christ in her name. Condolences may be sent to www.paulyoungfuneralhome.com.

Theodore “Ted” C. Smith died Dec. 25, 2006, at age 75. He and his wife, Barbara, were married 53 years. In addition to his widow, he is survived by one daughter, Joni; grandchildren; and great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his brother, Douglas. He was born in Dearborn, MI, to Charles and Jean Smith. He graduated from Cincinnati (Ohio) Bible Seminary with a BA and MA in theology. During his 45 years as a minister, he served churches in Mount Orab, OH; and Corona and Santa Rosa, CA. While living in Southern California, he taught fifth grade. He was active in community organizations, including the Optimist Club, and the Scottish Rite Bodies of Santa Rosa, CA. Upon retiring in 1995, he was named minister emeritus of Westview Christian Church,Santa Rosa. He had a wonderful sense of humor and a passion for golf. Services were conducted Jan. 7 at Westview Christian Church, Rod Bowman officiating.

Seth Wilson, 92, died Dec. 11 after falling in his garage in Joplin, MO. He was born in 1914 in Maryville, MO. He earned a bachelor”s degree from Cincinnati (OH) Bible College in 1936. In 1940, while attending graduate classes at Cincinnati Bible Seminary, he was called to “rescue” a fledgling Christian-vocation school called Ozark Christian College in Bentonville, AR. The first few years, during World War II, there was no salary for school workers. He and other workers survived on goats, chickens, garden vegetables, and the few dollars he received for preaching on weekends. He ended up teaching there for 51 years. He served as dean at the “earlier Ozark Christian College” from 1940 to 1942; dean at Ozark Bible College, 1942-79; as secretary of the school”s trustees, 1942-91; and dean emeritus, 1979 until his death. In 1937, he married Anna, and together they raised 10 children: Rebecca, Dora, Ben, Lois, Leta, Carl, Judy, Jonathan, Timothy, and Joy.