Like the roots of the different plants in a garden, joys and sorrows are intertwined in the moments of our lives. In the midst of other joys, I’m so sorry to share the news that Loretta Mountjoy, long-time member and former director of the “Woman’s Industrial” sewing program, died early Tuesday morning at Central Baptist Hospital. Memorial services will be held at Union Church with visitation this Friday, August 11 from 5pm-8pm, and Funeral on Saturday, August 12 at 11am in Cowan Chapel.
Loretta has been often in our prayers as she endured numerous surgeries and infections. This weekend, however, it became clear that the problems could no longer be mediated. She was released to a wider life, free from the trials and fears that encircled her here after heart complications and septicemia took their toll. While in the hospital she was surrounded by her husband George and daughter Brandy with her husband Chris. Rev. Rachel was with the family through the night and early morning. Thanks to her, I was able to share my love with Loretta via a phone call before she died, and I am so grateful for that grace.
Loretta came to Union Church in 1998 as director of the more than 100 year-old “Woman’s Industrial,” a program that began in the late 1800s as a support to low income women of Madison and surrounding counties. Meeting on Friday mornings for quilting and clothing distribution, Loretta led the 35-50 women who came each week with creative verve from 1998-2010. Loretta was a master fabric craftswoman, entering many challenges and quilt competitions. She took delight in entering the Kentucky State Fair in a number of fields, but often excelled and won table setting and flower decoration ribbons.
Loretta met her husband George first in 4H and then again at an extension dance at Lake Cumberland. They have one daughter, Brandy, who was married here at Union Church, and with her husband has been helping Loretta and George over these last series of illnesses.
Because she was wheelchair bound, Loretta was a regular participant of our services via webcast, and was so thankful for all those who made the broadcasts possible. We know and trust that now instead of in a mirror dimly, she is face to face with the God who loves and holds her. Please join us in prayers for her family and friends, who will miss her inquisitive and creative spirit. May her suffering be at an end, may she find welcome rest. And may Christ’s peace be with them in the days and months to come.
In sorrow,
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