Bill Leach was a longtime friend of the congregation, always making a point to visit services and concerts when he was in town for Alumni/ae weekends. He was a great admirer of former organist, John Courter, and enjoyed the wonderful sound of Union Church’s Steiner-Reck pipe organ on every visit.
In late April we received word from his daughter that Bill had passed away and had named Union Church as one of the beneficiaries of his estate. Unbeknownst to anyone, he felt so blessed by the work and music that he gave 10% of his life insurance policy in order that blessings from here might continue.
Per our ministry plan and policy, 20% of his $19,639 gift will be divided among 5 special funds for church use: our Leadership Development Fund, our Building Maintenance/Special Projects Fund, our Mission Fund, our Worship and Arts Fund, and our Community Life and Growth Special Projects Fund. Church Council voted to dedicate the remaining 80%, $15,711, to upcoming organ restoration costs in honor of and as a memorial to the music of the faith that moved him to such unexpected generosity.
Planned gifts from wills and estates can help ensure that the blessings you feel from the ministries of the congregation can continue to future generations. “Grace upon grace,” says the scripture, and so it is. We are deeply grateful for Mr. Leach and for all who have blessed us that we may continue to be a blessing in Christ’s service.
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