On July 11, 1999, my dad retired after 43 years in the ministry! In 40 of those years, dad served 4 churches in Texas (two at the same time!). Dad's retirement ceremony and party was attended by over 400 people. |
Dad's most recent church was in Lancaster, Texas. He has been there for 10 years. This was dad's last Sunday morning service. |  |
 | At the retirement ceremony, Patsy Dillard spoke about the 10 years that dad served in Allen, Tx. and Harold Keesee told about the 20 years that dad served in Garland, Texas. |  |
 Charlie VanBebber and Sid Carnes - both long time pastor friends of dad also took a moment to remember some fun times over the past 40 years. | |
 | But it was Granddaughter Kim who stole the show by singing 2 songs - one that got ol' PopPop a bit flustered! "That don't impress me much!" |  |
Dad was presented with a pin that recognized his many years of dedication to the ministry and Nancy placed it on his lapel. |  |
 | Special music was played (my favorite - "You'll Never Walk Alone") and dad's favorite hymn was sung. |
 | At the reception, it was great to see so many people that we have known over the years. MaryLou(center)has been a family friend for almost 40 years. |
After several hours of visiting with old friends and eating, eating, eating - we went back to dad's house and hit the pool! Keith, Cole, Jill plot out their next water gun target. | |
 | Koby and Shelby enjoyed playing in the water! Baby Blake even enjoyed being at the pool. |  |
 Liby and Allison just kicked their feet in the water but Shelby got right in. | |
 | My nephew David just turned 17 and has just grown into a fine (and tall) young man! |
Before I left to come back home, Grant made a sword for me to bring back to Luke. Grant, Luke loved it!!! Thanks!  | |
It was really great to get to see my family and so many friends!
