Memorials

(Holley Gazette, November, 1997)

In this concluding article (see the July, August, September and October Gazette articles) we will give a few details of those remaining individuals who have a tangible reminder of their faithfulness to the Lord and His Church. Of the following, only four actually have their names on the objects given in their memory.

The next time you enter the front of the church take a moment to observe the outside bulletin board. Affixed to the bottom is a small tag which reads “In Memory of Wallace DeGraff,” Dorothy’s husband. “Wally” joined the church December 25, 1921. He was first elected to the board of deacons in 1953 and continued in that office until his untimely death November 10, 1961. Dorothy was left with six children to rear. The bulletin board was installed in 1962.

The pair of candelabra, that is used on special occasions, was given by the family of Pastor Roger Seibert in his memory. This was an appropriate gift as he was a person who thoroughly enjoyed life. The Seibert family came to Holley in January 1960. After a successful nine and a half year ministry, Mr. Seibert accepted a call from a church in West Edmonson, NY. Only a few months after the move, he unexpectedly passed away. June 28, 1970 a special memorial service was held, at which time the new candelabra were dedicated.

Jessie and George Ricebrook joined the church in 1949 and 1961 respectively. In 1965 they purchased and had installed the chandeliers that illuminate the sanctuary. George served on the trustee board and Jessie was the church clerk during the 1960s. He passed away December 23, 1973. A month later the display Bible was purchased in his memory and placed on the communion table. Jessie died February 29, 1976. In her memory the cross was placed with the Bible. The inscription reads “In Memory of Jessie Ricebrook Feb. 1976(.)”

Ted and Hannah Fleth joined our fellowship November 30, 1939. Along with rearing two active boys, Hannah was financial secretary throughout the 1950s and taught Sunday school for many years. Ted served on the board of trustees, deacons, pulpit committee, as “chorister,” taught a Sunday school class and was superintendent of the Sunday school. Hannah passed away February 4, 1982 and Ted July 2, 1987. On the communion set is engraved “In Memory of Hannah Fleth 1982(.)” Ted willed to the church $10,000, which is invested in the Church Extension Fund.

Earl and Fanny Gordis joined the church sometime before 1947 (there is no date given in the church clerk’s records). Earl was elected to the board of trustees in 1947. He served in this capacity for many years. Fanny served as a deaconess and on the missionary and pulpit committees. Even in their 90s they maintained an active interest in the work of the church. Earl died August 6, 1984 and Fanny December 26, 1989. The new lectern and pair of flags were purchased in Earl’s memory in 1984.

Coming to Holley in 1960, as we did, Ginny and I have had the privilege of knowing each of these individuals and have many fond memories of them. Their gentle Christian Spirits are a constant reminder to us of how the Christian life should be lived. I spent many happy hours working with Ted installing the ceiling blocks in the downstairs areas. Who can forget Ted’s singing, or Earl’s sense of humor.

Though most members have no special memorial in the church building, it is important to remember that all who contribute to the work of the church, whether in time or money, will have a living memorial in the lives of those whom the church has touched. So keep in mind Paul’s admonition “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up” (Gal. 6:9).