A tribute to pastor Wally Blackmon
On Sunday afternoon July 28, church mem bers, city and county officials, and a multitude of friends and acquaintances gathered at East Highland Baptist Church for a reception honoring the retirement of long-time pastor Wally Blackman and in recognition of his twenty-five years of service.
I was serving out my last months at Lebanon Baptist Church before my first retirement when I first met Brother Wally. He had just accepted the call of East Highland to come as their pastor. I have observed over the years as he became an excellent preacher, and a loving pastor, not only to his church members but also others who sought him out for counsel and encouragement.
From a small beginning of a troubled congregation that had difficulty finding stability, the church has grown to become one of the bestknown in the city. As its membership increased and space was needed to accommodate new members, Brother Wally led in the building of an impressive sanctuary, the sight of which greets all who enter the city from the east and the interstate highway.
His influence has reached beyond East Highland. There is a sense in which he became a pastor to the city as he extended his ministry to all in need. He has felt the need to be a part of the city life. His quiet unassuming way has endeared him to many. He has always been ready to speak for some occasion or offer an invocation when needed. Over the years city officials have come to depend upon him for counsel and encouragement.
He has been a leader in the Morgan Baptist Association serving in many of its offices and on committees. He has been a moderate voice when matters of debate arose. He has been a steady participant in the Southern Baptist Convention through the state office. For several years he wrote a bible study course to be used by the Baptist Sunday School.
In his retirement, he plans to continue ministry on a reduced level. He is looking forward to preaching but on his own schedule and without the constant demanding responsibilities of shepherding a congregation. He plans to continue in a mentoring role with young ministers.
He is looking forward to spending more time with Suzanne, who for the present plans to continue teaching children at Danville. She has been supportive of his ministry and now he hopes to repay her in any way possible. Already their grandchildren are considering the extra time they may have with him.
He is dusting off his golf equipment to see if he can improve his score through practice. As fall approaches he will be oiling his rifle and setting in its sights in preparation for going to the woods in hunting season in search of the big one that has eluded him in the past. In the spring his garden will be increased in size. At this time, he has no plans of moving from Hartselle and the many friends he has here.
The city has been blessed by the ministry of Brother Wally. Thank you, Brother Wally!
