On May 30, Rochelle Schafer will retire as Denton Baptist Association’s Executive Assistant and Clerk. Rochelle came to the DBA on October 1, 2001. During that time, she worked with Dr. Gary Loudermilk, my predecessor, Steve Pate, Lora Thomas, David Crane, our current team, and many others.
For 22 years, Rochelle has been the voice of Denton Baptist Association. She has been the first point of contact on the phone and via email. She has proven herself as a faithful follower of Christ. Her voice has soothed many anxious Ministry Assistants and Ministers. She was one that people could confide in who truly understood their situation.
Not only has she been the voice, but she has also worn many hats for the DBA. She has served as the association’s Communications Director, Office Manager, DBA clerk, and ghostwriter. She has shown herself to be a professional in each of these cases. She has done things by the book, following the necessary rules and procedures for each of these jobs.
Probably the thing that sticks out to me is that she has been a friend. She helped to break me in as a new Director of Missions. She helped me realize there was a difference between pastoring a local church and leading an association. She has been an encourager to me. She has listened to my quirkier sense of humor and laughed on occasion. She has served as a brainstorming teammate. She has helped our association pursue God’s direction through all of this.
We will honor Rochelle for her illustrious career in May. We will recognize her on May 14 at our Executive Board meeting. We will also have a special come-and-go reception for her at our office on May 30 from 11-1. You are certainly invited to attend either of our celebrations for her. We would even suggest you write a note, make a phone call, or take her to lunch. Help us celebrate a woman who has served faithfully and will continue to serve others in retirement.