Notes from the Church Lady: Friend was faithful servant of God

Another treasure of our community went home to heaven last week. Allene McMurphy led a long, active life until only a few days before her death. Even as she lay dying, she was still thinking of others. I can truly say she was a faithful servant of God and served Him to the end.

Allene taught me much about service to the Lord, but also how to reach out to others making them feel special. I was one of those people who felt special when I was around Allene.

I met her when I came to Tucumcari as a young bride several years ago. Along with other ladies they hosted a bridal shower for me, someone they didn't even know.

Now as I think back to that wonderful evening, I realize I am now about the same age they were. Would I be willing to put in that much work for someone I didn't know? All of those ladies were gracious and helpful. They served not only as mentors, but role models as well.

Life wasn't always easy for this remarkable lady. A few months ago we were visiting and she shared how her family came from Oklahoma to New Mexico walking beside a wagon that contained their belongings. They followed the railroad tracks and camped beside the wagon. Once they arrived in New Mexico they lived in a dugout until they renovated an old chicken coop for their home.

I remember visiting at her home one day and her sharing how hard she and her husband worked to build a home for their own family. Only to her it was a labor of love woven together over time. She took me from room to room describing things associated with her family. I remember leaving that day thinking how blessed she was and how her stories encouraged me.

Activities of the church were important to her from the time she was 13 years old when she was saved until she passed away. Missions were a passion for her and she taught countless boys, girls, young and older women about missionaries. In the days before she passed away she wanted to make sure there was someone to take her place.

In addition to missions, she taught children through senior adults in Sunday School for over 60 years. For approximately 40 years she found time to sing in the adult choir. She also found time to visit shut-ins and those in the hospital. I also saw her fun side when the senior adults had activity days. There was no one who could plan a party as she was amazingly creative and inventive.

It was said it will take four people to do the same things. Although this might be a slight exaggeration, it proves what is accomplished for the Lord when they yield to His leading.

In Isaiah 6:8 we read: "I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me.'

Allene was one of a kind, but all of us can say "send me," no matter how simple the task may seem. Listen to the Lord and He will give you everything you need to accomplish your calling. What will people say about you when you are gone?

Debra Whittington is a longtime resident of Tucumcari. Contact her at:

[email protected]