When Tillie Burgin returned from Korea, a woman named Doris whom she did not know approached her saying, “I’ve been praying for you.” This began a decades-long friendship between the two women and their families.

Doris volunteered at Mission Arlington in countless ways from the beginning. From clerical work to cleaning the kitchen, she was always a familiar sight around the office. She also served on the Mission Metroplex Board of Directors.

The position most important to her, though, was the time she spent teaching the ladies’ Bible Study at South Street Church. She guided the women that she taught to follow God. They loved her so much, even when she was no longer well enough to teach the class, the women still asked about her and checked on her consistently.

Doris loved telling people about the Lord. She once found, while proofreading a Mission Arlington publication, someone had written the phrase, “a chance to tell people about Jesus.” She suggested a word change, explaining it was not by a lucky “chance,” but telling people about Jesus is always an “opportunity.” She took these opportunities seriously because of her deep love for her Savior. She wanted everyone to know him the way she knew him.

We are thankful to God for sending this beautiful woman to teach us all how to love the Lord and serve people well. Doris went to be with her Lord this spring. She now knows by sight what we only know by faith.

At her memorial service, one speaker asked everyone to stand who had been taught by Doris. Nearly one-fourth of the congregation stood to be counted as Doris‘ pupils. Almost all of these have gone on to teach their own classes, or lead their families or friends in the way of the Lord.

Doris‘ legacy, taking opportunities to spread the word of God, will make an impact for generations to come.