Funeral Service for Elder Johnny Gresham

The funeral service for one of our beloved elders, Johnny Gresham. He passed away very suddenly early Saturday morning, March 27, 2005.

An Appreciation -- Written by Alan Cairns, Minister

Happy is the church that has a Barnabas among its elders. Barnabas, "the son of consolation (or encouragement)," was "a good man, full of the Holy Ghost and of faith." Johnny Gresham was a true Barnabas in this church.

Johnny was a true servant. A man of few words and abundant works, he served the Lord as an elder whose counsel was always wise and whose heart was always open. Johnny's last official function as an elder was to join his brethren in praying for a young woman battling an aggressive cancer. The last words that many of us heard him speak were those he spoke to her as he shook her hand and assured her, "We will pray for you." And he meant it.

When the Lord took Johnny Gresham from us early Saturday morning He left an immense gap in the work of this church. The tasks Johnny did were almost innumerable. He was a true Barnabas and will be irreplaceable. But on Saturday his Lord said that his work on earth was done and called him home. We rejoice that he is with his Saviour. His memory is blessed, and the fragrance of his godly life will long linger to sweeten our lives. We bid our dear brother a very temporary farewell, for we will see him again in the morning when together we will resume our fellowship in the worship and service of our common Lord and Redeemer.