Monroe Dispatch - No Struggle, No Progress

A rose once grew where all could see, sheltered beside a garden wall, and as the days passed swiftly by, it spread its branches, straight and tall ..One day, a beam of light shine through a crevice that had opened wide. The rose bent gently towards its warmth then passed beyond to the other side... Now, you who deeply feel it's loss, be comforted - the rose blooms there - It's beauty even greater now, nurtured by God's own loving care. Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies (Proverbs 31:10) This week I would like to talk about a family and community Patriarch, Church Mother, a faithful and hospitable woman, Mrs. Ella Armstrong Wagner. Momma Ella as she was fondly known was born August 4,1920. She was the mother 13. Four preceded her in death. There are 29 grandchildren, 42 great-grandchildren, 26 great-great grandchildren. You would think with this many at least one would have made the headlines in a negative way because of mischief, but it didn't happen. Not one incident can be found. This virtue she possessed was passed down to each generation. The hospitable spirit she had was felt in her home from the time you entered, there we're at least 15 seats always available for visitors, her greatest joy was to fill each seat. If there was one or two, she was just as satisfied. She always had something to offer her guest to eat or drink. In two months, Momma Ella would have been 102 years old. (Prov. 3:2) Those who don't forget God's Law, and keep his commandments in their heart, he will add length of days , and long life and peace to them . She had all of them. Momma Ella was a pillow in the Holly Ridge Community. She also had favor and good understanding and she is sorely missed. Momma Ella went home to be with the Lord on June 2, 2022. Her funeral services were June 11, 2022 at Holly Ridge Baptist Church in Holly Ridge La.