A Tribute to Bruce Neatherlin

I don’t know where to begin to tell you what a wonderful Christian Soldier Bruce Neatherlin was all of his life. Although he and Dorothy were only members of Dayspring for almost four years, I’ve known “Mr. Neatherlin” for over 60 years! The reason I said Mr. Neatherlin is because he was my Sunday school teacher for one year in elementary school. Back in the ‘60s and ‘70s, our elders were referred to this way. By elders, I’m referring to adults more than 20 years older than you. Speaking of elders, Bruce was an elder at Lake Shore Baptist for many years. He was always ready to step up and help whenever help was needed. Bruce was a kind and loving man who always made you feel welcome and comfortable. Bruce was in the military for “6 years, 6 months, and 20 days," according to Dorothy. They had two children: their daughter was a few years older than me, their son, Curtis, and I were in the same grade for 12 years. Both of their children passed away “too young,” as people say. Bruce and Dorothy fostered children as well as took people in need under their wings. Bruce delivered Meals on Wheels for many years, and he always had a smile and kind words for everyone. How blessed I am to have had Bruce be a part of my life and Dorothy, too! Bruce, you’re in your glorious forever home! I’ll see ya when I get there!! You will be missed by many!!! Thank you for being such a wonderful Christian role model in my life.