In January of 2007, Grace Presbyterian Church lost another one of its most beloved members, Florence Blanton.  The collage below shows Florence in some of her most memorable poses.

This photo was her last 'posed' church picture and I think it captures her essence of being a beautiful, warm child of God.

The heart of the Memorial Service was the amazing display of flowers sent by friends and loved ones - and a tribute delivered by Reverend Salmon.

In attendance were Florence's 3 children, Sherry, Laura and Gary.  One needed to only be around them for moments to know where they came from.

Florence's last major journey before her illness was a trip to Israel with Reverend Salmon and other church members.  She is shown here in front of the Wailing (or Western) Wall.

When Florence returned from Israel she told me the trip had changed her life.  Hearing that, I ask her to write down some of her feelings and experiences from the trip for our church newsletter.  This is what she had to say: