In Honor of Dr. Charles and Mrs. Lavelle

They came to guide
   through the year of Transition Time.
They stayed to shine His light
   and His praises did chime.
They led through example every time,
   always truly genuine.
They motivated when hopes despaired,
   never once their time declined.
They shared our trials and tribulations
   as if their own;
Then rejoiced in our successes,
   reaping the rewards from what they had sown.
They taught and from God's Word
   not one time did depart.
They sang and harmonized
   in the unity of the beautiful lark.
They laughed and laughed
  as throughout the church their voices rang.
They joked, always remembering every single word
   to stories to which they laid claim.
They visited our community,
   lending their ministering touch.
The loved us,
   always giving much.

Organized they are.
Prompt they are.
Leaders they are.
God's own they are.

And for a time they were ours.

To Dr. Charles and Mrs. Lavelle,
  Words simply cannot tell
The depths to which our love has grown
And how grateful we are for God's loan
   of you to us for this extended time.

Just as in life as families do
   Sometimes we have to part.
Just as in life as families do,
   Please know you have left your mark.

God's Family we are.
A family much stronger
   for the spiritual Dad and Mom you have been.

Through your prayers,
   you will continue to lead
For these we will always need.

Thus, as you leave...or "leaf"...
   Go with God and with our love,
Knowing because of you
   This part of your Family
       Remains...
         To continue the work of God
              at Sulphur Rock Baptist Church...
   Certainly better for the legacy your touch does leave.