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Brother
Wilfred E. Stephenson has fought a good fight, finished his
course, kept the faith. Wednesday afternoon, Aug. 18, Elizabeth
called and said quietly, "Brother Turner, I believe Wilfred
is dead." I hurried to their home, and found him where he had
fallen, in death still projecting the strength and confidence we
had associated with his life. He died unafraid, ready to go. I can
almost hear him now—"Brother Robert I have lived my life
and then some. Younger men are going to have to take up and go on
in there and like that." (Those last expressions he used to
cover the things he did not say, knowing we would supply details
in context.)
Brothers
Steve, Parks, and Collins were the original overseers of this
church. They worked as hand in glove: well known and respected in
the community; determined to plant here a congregation of people
who respected God's authority. Each had his own strength and
function, with no hint of envy or jealousy. We have added two fine
elders, but when Parks died last year it was clear he left a spot
none can fill. And with Steve's death we will again feel a vacuum.
This is not written in despair, for other men with character and
talents will continue the work of God—leaning heavily on bro.
Collins for a tie with the past, but building for a new and better
future. We will remember them that had the rule over us, men that
spake unto
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us the word of God; and considering
the issue of their life, will imitate their faith (Heb. 13:7).
Brother
Stephenson built his memorial while he lived—not of stone, but
of young men: taught in his class, encouraged to "make
talks," given confidence by one who genuinely believed in
them. He liked to keep up with his "boys" and reminisce
about them.
Plain
Talk (V.15, N. 8) "Notes On An Elder," is but one of
several articles taken from his work. We could count on Steve
giving us the straight stuff: Bible truth, spoken in love, but
aimed straight at each heart. He came frequently to my study, to
welcome me home, discuss problems we had shared for 20 years, and
tell me I should stay home and "quit running around all over
the country."
"Elizabeth"
(with some emphasis on the last syllable) was still a childhood
sweetheart (married 58 yrs.) and they were the first to arrive at
every service. Then bro. Collins would come, and together they
would greet the rest of us. Others will help Vernie at the door.
Wouldn't surprise me a bit to learn that Steve is waiting in the
foyer of a certain Golden Gate.
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