This weekend we had the privilege of participating in the retirement send off for Bro. Donnie McDaniel of Underwood Baptist Church. I grew up at Underwood Baptist, so this weekend held quite a few reunions and familiar faces. We got to catch up with a few of our past brides and some childhood friends as well. For those I didn't get to see, send us an email/Facebook "hello!" I'd love to hear from you!The weekend was packed with activities, beginning with the church dinner and comedic "roast" on Saturday night. Speakers came in from across the country, and even one from Honduras. Between "Barney Fife" and Willie P. Richardson, the whole audience was in stitches. My face hurt from laughing so hard. Bro. Donnie even got a few mementos to remember the evening, including some giant undies...
Sunday followed with a nice luncheon for the staff and special guests held at The Nelson Place. "Fantastic" is an understatement for the food, cooked by Jim Humphries and other volunteers. After lunch, it was back to church for a reflection on Bro. Donnie's 25 years of service to the church and his community. There were so many letters, video messages, and speeches telling of his accomplishments and influence over the years. Bro. Donnie and his family were presented with various gifts, including a beautiful handmade quilt made from men's ties donated from church members with the Underwood Baptist logo stitched into the center.
Following the service, guests lined up to say their farewells and best wishes to the entire McDaniel family. We tried our best to take photos of each person with Bro. Donnie as they came through, but the line was so long with so many people waiting to say goodbye, I'm sure that some were missed, and for that we apologize. However, what a way to measure a job well done as to see a line of people as far as the eye can see, just wanting to say thank you.
For my part, Bro. Donnie, his family, and Underwood Baptist has been so instrumental in my life, as well as my family. I was baptized by Bro. Donnie, along with my mother and sister. I spent my summers growing up at vacation bible school, church camps, and youth mission trips. The life-long friends I've been blessed to have were met in Underwood Baptist Sunday School. I was married at Underwood, and will probably always consider it my church home no matter where life takes me. It seems strange to think of someone else filling such big shoes, but I know a great example has been laid before whomever takes up the task. Good luck to Bro. Donnie and his family, and thank you for years of dedication.
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