In relation to our previous mid June post, Gilbert is doing about the same in the nursing home. He is content, thankful, and always says he is receiving better care than he deserves. Marybelle has declined significantly in the personal care home. Clarence Roachell was taken from the hospital by his family back to his garage apartment in Livingston where some of us had gone to meeting for years. He passed away June 25th. His 5 children were able to be with him there, which was sweet. Although on oxygen and weak, his mind was clear. Here is a photo of his family gathered around his bed.
Unfortunately, we had to take Lois Culver into the hospital again today. She became dizzy and unable to walk. This has happened before and she managed to improve and return to PG. Hopefully that will be the case this time.
Going back to the beginning of the month, we have had a myriad of different visitors and activities. Della was visited by her children and nephews. It was a family reunion, Pecan Grove Style! Here are some pictures of her with her two nephews and their wives: Charles and Angela Strong, and Ron and Karen Strong. Next is a picture of her with her three daughters: Henrietta, Della Mae, and Chris. Finally a picture of the whole family, minus Chris.
Recently, Brian and Rich have been holding small Wednesday afternoon gospel meetings at PG. Mostly attended by those of us out here at PG and a few of the local friends. It was Rich’s idea that one of the workers would speak in Spanish for Anita’s sake. He had been asking one of our Spanish speaking residents (Marilynn and Ronald) to have this part in the meetings. They had thought to end the meetings because it was time for Rich to go to Hotchkiss convention. But, we received word that a visiting brother worker from California, Jon Wright, would be in the area. He came in one day later with his friend Loren Smit from Texarkana. That allowed us to have half Spanish meeting on that Thursday instead. Here are a few photos of Jon, Loren, and a few residents. We had another half Spanish gospel meeting today (June 30). Emma Perez helped the brothers.
Elton had the pleasure of being taken out by a few of his dear friends: Ed Lloyd, Jim Eubank, and Al Perkins.
Several of our Spanish friends came with Emma Perez for a visit. The Saldana Family: Eloisa, Emiliano, and Emmanuel. As well as another couple of friends Luisa Contreras and Ana Lidia Munoz.
We were also joined for a few days by two sisters from Kentucky, Anna and Alda Blackemore. They knew Esther well from her time spent in their field. Alda informed us that it was her 69th birthday! And that she had chosen to spend it with us. How nice it is to be thought of as a birthday hotspot!
Before Marybelle left us she had some kind of malfunction with her left hand. We are not quite sure if it was a partial stroke but her hand became curled up and very weak, to the point of non use. Here she is getting an in house x-ray done to find out the issue. Unfortunately, due to her constant drowsiness and failing legs we feel as though taking her to meeting on Sundays may no longer be an option.
Thankfully there are many here who love her, so she gets visits and fellowship regularly.
Gilbert had been quite clear when someone visits. He has short term memory trouble, but he recognized Elton and asked him if he was going to play the piano! (which he did)
Lastly, today was Clarence’s funeral in La Porte, TX. We had a memorial for him at Pecan Grove yesterday. His son-in-law, Mike Krengle, had the idea of asking some to share their memories of Clarence. Several took part and it was a touching memorial. Here are a few pictures from yesterday.
Here’s a link to notes from the memorial service: Memorial Service at Pecan Grove for Clarence Roachell
Thanks for your interest in PG!
Kenny
