Mourning Losses

On Ash Wednesday, our Building Supervisor, Denby Turner, entered the hospital for replacement of a heart valve. This is surgery he’d needed – but put off – for a while. The surgery was successful, but Denby suffered complications – and, as we all know now, he passed away on Saturday, March 8, 2025. I was unable to share the news publicly the next day because we didn’t receive permission to do so from the family until the afternoon of Sunday, March 9.

The trustees spent considerable time at their March 11 meeting talking about how to fill the Building Superintendent position, and how to cover the responsibilities in the interim. They know we have much going on right now with the building, and that everyone will need to step in to help. Your trustees are good people and good stewards of the property of High Street. We are fortunate. The staff will also do as much as they can as well. All of your help is appreciated, too. Most importantly, if you know of someone who might be interested in a part-time position as our Building Supervisor, please let Pastor Teri, Diana Smiley, Lance Brand, or one of the other trustees know. Direct contacts are always best.

Our Christian faith promises that death is not an ending, but a “graduation” into a new dimension. And we can take comfort that Denby has joined that great cloud of witnesses in the Church Triumphant, and knows no more pain, illness, weakness, sorrow, or difficulties. Denby rests with our Lord Jesus Christ. But we still sorrow for our loss. We all approach the death of friends, family, and colleagues differently. And it’s important to note that there is no one “right” way to grieve. If you want to talk about Denby’s death – or any other death – I’m available.

Perhaps, as we approach Easter, it’s good to remember that through the resurrection, Jesus conquered death once and for all – for us. And even as we mourn, we can anticipate a grand reunion: with Christ and with our loved ones. Thanks be to God.