Starling Avenue Baptist Church All Saints Sunday
November 7, 2021 ╬ 11:00 am
The Worship of God All Saints Sunday November 7, 2021 ╬ 11:00 am
Gathering at God’s Invitation Prelude
The Old Rugged Cross
Fern Kanode
arr. Jeanette Keyser
Welcome Psalter
Jeff Stegall Psalm 127
Jeff Stegall
Call to Worship Come, take your rest this day Lord, free us from the stresses we have endured this week. Come, put your minds at ease. Lord, ease the burdens and frustrations of our lives. Come. For this is the house of the Lord. It is here that you will find peace. Praise and thanks be to God for giving us sanctuary. AMEN. *Hymn #567
For All the Saints (Hum softly while soloist sings)
Fern Kanode Jeff Franklin, Soloist
Procession of the All Saints Banner, recognizing all of the faithful who have gone on before us.
Remembering the Saints: Naming Deceased Church Members and Friends who have Faithfully Contributed to the Life of our Church When each name is read, we invite family and friends to stand in celebration and remembrance of your loved one.
Abner Laurance “Larry” Aydlett, Jr. Harry Frederick Dalton, Jr. Sallie Herndon Stone Deal Barry Martin Dorsey Larry McGhee Fleming Vernie Mae Wright Lewis
Betty Jo Robertson Gerald “Gerry” Robinson Ellen Spencer Tunnell Allan Kent Wagoner Mary Elizabeth Webber Ann Bocock Winn
A Prayer for All Saints Day We bless your holy name, O God, for all your servants who, having finished their course, now rest from their labors. Give us grace to follow the example of their steadfastness and faithfulness, to your honor and glory; through Jesus Christ our Lord. AMEN. Interlude
It is Well
arr. Phillip P. Bliss
Fern Kanode
Hearing God’s Word Old Testament Lesson
Numbers 13:1-2, 26-33
Dr. Dennis Knight
For the Word of God in Scripture, for the Word of God among us, for the Word of God within us. Thanks be to God. Sermon
“Obstacle or Opportunity”
Dr. Dennis Knight
Responding to God’s Word Celebration of the Lord’s Supper Prayer of Thanksgiving & The Lord’s Prayer Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
Sharing the Bread & the Cup Hymn #548
When We All Get to Heaven (Hum softly while soloist sings)
Life of the Community
Fern Kanode Jeff Franklin, Soloist Jeff Stegall
Sending to God’s World Benediction Postlude
Dr. Dennis Knight Look and Live
William A. Ogden
Fern Kanode
Remembering the Saints
Abner Laurance “Larry” Aydlett, Jr. August 12, 1935 – April 24, 2021 Larry graduated from Wake Forest University and served in the U.S. Army as a second Lieutenant. He began his long tenure with the Martinsville/Henry County Chamber of Commerce in 1968 where he served until his retirement in 2000. He received the Heck Ford Award, President’s Award and the Certified Chamber Executive Award. He was involved in many civic and educational endeavors and served on Patrick and Henry Community College Foundation Board. There he was an adjunct professor providing training for upcoming new managers and supervisors. Larry enjoyed fishing, frog gigging, big game hunting and hiking. He is survived by his wife Becky; daughters, Kerry and Cameron and brother Blake.
Harry Frederick Dalton, Jr. February 8, 1929 – March 29, 2021 Harry lived a full, active Christian life, not just with his words, but also with his actions. It was an awesome day in heaven when he was called home to be with his Lord and Savior and reunited with his wife Nan (Buck) of 46 years. Harry was a supervisor at Tultex where he had a long successful career. At Starling Avenue Baptist Church, he served as Chairman of the Deacons and taught Sunday School for more than 50 years. During the Korean Conflict, he served two years in the U.S. Army Signal Corps. His daughters Julie and Leesa say that Harry was a great husband, father, grandfather, supervisor, mentor and teacher. Harry’s youngest brother Harold said that Harry was the perfect older brother being a sterling example in his commitment to Jesus and his Church. He was dedicated to his wife and daughters. In their last conversation, Harold said that Harry reminded him that he called his name in prayer every day.
Sallie Herndon Stone Deal Sallie Herndon Deal15, 2021 November 6, 1925Stone – January November 6, 1925 – January 15, 2021 Sallie worked at Henry County Memorial Hospital, Martinsville General and Martinsville Convalescent Home. She retired after 30 years in nursing. She used her nursing skills to help friends and family. She was a longtime member of Starling Avenue Baptist Church and remained interested in life of the church even after she was unable to attend. She worked in Vacation Bible School and also served as a Cub Scout den mother at Calvary Christian Church for four years. She is survived by her son Samuel.
Barry Martin Dorsey October 31, 1942 – January 4, 2021 A quiet unassuming Southern gentleman, Barry Dorsey was a man of numerous accomplishments—particularly in the area of education. He received his undergraduate degree from Wake Forest University, his Master’s from American University and his doctorate from The University of Virginia. His professional career included Professor of Political Science at Radford University, President of University of Rio Grande and Rio Grande Community College in Ohio, founding executive director for New College Institute in Martinsville, and after retirement, interim head of Carlisle School and operator of BMD Consulting, an educational consulting firm. In addition, he received many honors from the various civic and cultural organizations he belonged to. One of his accomplishments, among so many, was serving as an aide to Senator Sam Ervin, Jr. Barry’s commitment to his Baptist faith began in his early years, serving as pianist at his home church. Later, a devoted member of Starling Avenue Baptist Church, he served as deacon, trustee, a supporter of the Community Meals and numerous committees. He is survived by his sister Jeanne Dorsey Burks, a niece and two nephews.
Larry McGhee Fleming May 16, 1939 – February 5, 2021 Larry’s passing left behind his wife of 61 years, Joy Anglin Fleming. Also surviving are his son Carl Fleming of Martinsville, VA; his daughter Kim Newman of Roanoke, VA; and his grandchildren Zac, Ashlyn and Kate of Martinsville, VA, who called him Papa. He loved attending events involving them. Larry was a Southside boy who joined Starling Avenue Baptist Church as a youth. He graduated from Martinsville High School in the Class of ’59. He was employed by DuPont for thirty years. One of his passions was hostas. He had over a hundred in his yard.
Vernie Mae Wright Lewis November 25, 1951 – September 19, 2020 Vernie, a Ridgeway farm girl with three brothers and five sisters, loved the outdoors, her job of 50 years as secretary treasurer, and bookkeeper at Charles B. Keesee Educational Fund, her family and church. The Vernie W. Lewis Scholarships are given in her honor by the Charles B. Keesee Educational Fund every year to women divinity students at four universities. She loved participating in a myriad of outdoor activities, including sleeping in a tent under the giant redwoods, the 1982 Tennessee World’s Fair and Salt House Branch. Other activities she enjoyed were quilting and dancing. One of Vernie’s biggest dreams came true when Kevin, Wes and Stacey all graduated from James Madison University. Her sister Joan points out that she never missed a family gathering or event. Once a month, she enjoyed Sisters Night Out with Wanda, Pat, Margaret, Joan and Linda. She loved and was faithful to the church. Growing up she had perfect attendance at Highland Baptist Church Sunday school for 13 years. She was an active member at Starling Avenue Baptist Church for over 35 years. She enjoyed many different groups, committees, serving as a Sunday school teacher and accompanying youth on a trip to Maryland. She met her husband Duane while working at Wilson Electric in 1969. “Together, we had it all.” — Duane Lewis
Gerald “Gerry” Robinson October 17, 1950 – September 3, 2021 In September 1983, Gerry was called by Starling Avenue Baptist Church as Minister of Music and Education. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Richmond, his Master of Divinity degree from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary and his Doctorate from Baptist Theological Seminary at Richmond. He served as president of the VA Baptist Male Chorale and sang locally in Gaudete. His passion for music was evident as he provided musical opportunities for all ages, including Orff, band instruments, stringed instruments, numerous choirs and handbells. He helped organize Grace Network in 2005 and served as vice-president. After 25 years at SABC, Gerry left to become Minister of Music and Worship at Hatcher Memorial in Richmond, VA. He served ten years in Richmond and then retired to Little River, SC, where he enjoyed golfing, fishing and the “beach life”. He is survived by his wife Betty and his sons John, Brent and Adam.
Betty Jo Robertson June 13, 1935 – January 24, 2021 Betty was a faithful and devoted wife to her husband Warren of 58 years, a wonderful mother and grandmother, and a loving, friendly person. She retired from Martinsville Police Department as a School Crossing Guard. She then filled her time by volunteering at the Hospital Auxiliary where she also served on the board. Betty spent a great deal of her life dedicated to taking care of her friends and family. Her love, kindness and selflessness will be dearly missed by all. According to her three sons Baxter, Benton and Bryce, Betty was the best wife, mother, daughter and friend “ever”!
Ellen Spencer Tunnell March 2, 1938 – February 13, 2021 Ellen started attending Starling Avenue Baptist Church after having attended several Christmas services with the “Spencer” family. She was impressed with then pastor David Adkins and the warm and friendly members of the church. She worked at various occupations. These include being a telephone operator, a member of quality control at a furniture factory and a number of jobs as a furniture salesperson. In her final years, she had some serious health issues and became homebound. Members of the church were very supportive during this time. She is survived by her sons Chuck and Chris, brother Billy Spencer and sister Judi Price. She is remembered as being sweet, loving and kind; never one to complain.
Alan Kent Wagoner January 15, 1953 – February 24, 2021 Kent was born in Martinsville, VA, on January 15, 1953, to James and Patsy Wagoner of Ridgeway, Va. He graduated from Drewry Mason High School in 1971 and later graduated from Danville Community College in automotive mechanics. He became a mechanic in the United States Air Force. Kent was an avid outdoorsman and loved to hunt and fish. He also loved to ride the back roads of the Blue Ridge Mountains on his 1975 Harley Davidson. Kent could whistle just about anything and was a great southern cook! His friends remember that “his smile could light up an entire room.” Kent is predeceased by his parents Jim and Pat Wagner and his sister Debra. He is survived by his son Alan, his brother Jeff, his sister Bonnie and his grandson Ethan.
Mary Elizabeth Webber April 11, 1930 – September 17, 2020 Elizabeth Webber passed away September 17, 2020, at the age of 90. She was a kind, sweet and funny lady who would do anything to help other people. She attended Starling Avenue Baptist Church in the ‘50’s and ‘60’s. Her family went to Sunday School and church every Sunday, and she always had her children dressed in their Sunday best. Elizabeth enjoyed singing in the church choir on those Sunday mornings. Elizabeth was a dedicated nurse who cared and loved all her patients. She also loved her animals. She enjoyed walking her neighbor’s dog. She took walks twice a day until she became sick at the age of 88. In addition to walking, she loved bowling and traveling with her family. Elizabeth was always there for her family. “We love and miss her deeply.”—Martha Robertson
Ann Bocock Winn August 19, 1934 – October 26, 2020 Ann was a long-standing member of Starling Avenue Baptist Church. She enjoyed working with the preschool children--story time was her specialty. She was a friendly and loving person who enjoyed having company. Ann worked most of her career at the Martinsville Bulletin where she rose to an executive position. There she was very instrumental in the growth of the Bulletin. She took computer classes to gain the skills necessary to transfer the Bulletin to the age of modern technology. Ann was survived by her son Benjamin Winn, Jr. and sister Ellen Carey. Ann was preceded in death by her husband Benjamin Winn, her infant daughter Suzanne Winn and son Drewry Winn.
Memorials prepared by friends, families of the saints, and staff. Ribbon Bells have been placed on the All Saints Day Banner in memory of the following: David Adkins Stephen Barrow Dale Barrow Fred Barrow, Jr. Fred Barrow, Sr. Sandra Bateman Albert & Dora Beane Albert & Evelyn Beane, Jr. Mary Lou Bell Margaret Bouldin Peggy B. Brown Charles & Jewell Crist Robert S. Crist Harry Dalton Dale Dameron David Dameron Doug Dameron Eva Dameron Pat Dameron Russell Dameron William Davis Alice Ann Turner Dillon Barry Dorsey Matty Drane Harold Draper Madison & Edna Draper Milton & Annie Elliott Everette & Evelyn Elliott Peggy Farrar
Wilson Ferguson Lynn Fitzgibbons Christy Fulcher Virginia Gann Samuel H. Gann Ruth B. Gray Willie & Ella Hammack Dallas Hammack Sadie Hankins Mary Bell Hardy Inez Hatcher Bill & Bailey Hicks Roy Earl Hubbard, Jr. Edgar Huddle Garland Huddle Cecelia Hundley Daisy Johnston Benton Joyce Otis Lang Ethylene Lawrence Vernie W. Lewis Alton R. Mabry Fred & Selma Mabry Jesse A. Mabry Lorene Mattox Charles McKinster Dr. & Mrs. Jim McMillan Ran Minter Marcella Minter
Wiley T. Nance William Joseph Nance Obie Nunn Wayne Poindexter Jack Phillips Otis & Ola Phillips Bert Price David Prince Frank Radnoczi Hogie & Jinx Roach Moss L. Roach Shirley Mae Roach Betty Jo Robertson Elizabeth Robertson Gerry Robinson Bob & Louise Shuford Garland & Lois Smith Marilyn Spencer Gaynelle Stanley Bill & Pauline Stegall Clarence F. Stegall Herbert & Ruby Stultz Christy Stultz Jack & Hazel Turner Eddie Vaden Raye & Thomas Wells Peggy B. White Billie B. & Allen Wray
How to Connect to Sunday Worship & Other Gatherings Although we have moved back to in-person worship, our services will continue to be live streamed. To connect to Worship from your landline (audio): Call 1-844-621-3956 (toll free), Access Code: 132-630-0075## To connect to Worship from your computer, tablet, or smartphone (video): Go to the SABC Facebook page (bit.ly/FacebookSABC), our YouTube channel (bit.ly/YouTubeSABC) or our new video conferencing service Webex (bit.ly/StarlingAvenue), Access Code: 132 630 0075 Closed Captioning is available on YouTube. All connections (Webex, YouTube and Facebook) are now up and running for the Sunday Worship Service. We will continue to make adjustments to improve the quality of the sound and visual transmissions. If you are joining us through any of these connections, your feedback is extremely valuable. Thanks.
Current Church Office Hours Monday: 9:00 am – 2:00 pm Wednesday: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm (Lunch 12-1 pm) Friday: 9:00 am – 2:00 pm
(276) 638-8861 -- www.starlingavenue.org Pastor: Music: Church Secretary: Barbara Rakes (church@starlingavenue.org) Interpreter for the Deaf: Joan Joyce