Paul and Janet Rohde (IMB Guyana, South America )
Gary and Evelyn Harthcock are wonderful folks who worked for a year with us in Guyana. During these days in their lives, we have been encouraged to see their strong faith in action. Not a surprise! That was our experience with them in Guyana.
Here are some memories that we treasure, laugh about and thank God for as we love them and pray for them:
--One day, Paul asked Gary when they would retire. Gary’s response was, “When the devil does!”
--Our daughter, Sarah, was the only MK in Guyana at the time Gary and Evelyn were there. As parents, we thought of things our children would miss by being home-schooled for their High School years in a foreign country. One day, after mission prayer meeting in our home – we were surprised by a ‘Graduation Ceremony’ for Sarah, lovingly planned by our missionary co-workers. Gary and Evelyn were part of that plan. Gary wrote a special poem and presented it to Sarah while we cried. Such love expressed!
--One day Gary and Evelyn invited us to their home for soufflé. Gary made sure we knew that we had better be in our chairs at the table when Evelyn pulled the soufflé from the oven, OR we would be in big trouble. It could not fall before we saw it. Well, we were there, and it was wonderful food and fellowship!
--Gary and Evelyn celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary while they were with us in Guyana. All of us missionaries traveled to the New Amsterdam home of Warren and Bette Rice for a ‘slumber party’ and celebration of this milestone. We played games, listened to stories of those 50 years, ate too much, and just were blessed by the time together.
--When Gary and Evelyn arrived in Guyana, they were in their mid-70s. They wanted to see everything. They wanted to go to camp which is 40 miles up the Essequibo River, reachable only by boat – with bathing in the river, outdoor toilet facilities, etc. Paul suggested a trip to see the place before trying to spend time there. He arranged a day trip with speed boat (usual camp transport was 6-8 hours on a steamer). He was concerned about the getting in and out of the boat safely. No worries there. Evelyn stepped in the boat and gracefully stepped over seats all the way to the back.
--Gary and Evelyn did go to Youth Camp! Early in the week at camp, they were asked to share their testimonies and especially about marriage for 50 years. Evelyn took the opportunity to ask if any campers were interested in getting together for sessions to learn more about marriage, etc. Thus, another group session was added to the camp program. It became a’ True Love Waits’ emphasis. In October, following camping season, the Baptist Convention of Guyana held its annual convention meeting. A’ True Love Waits’ reunion was scheduled during that weekend. It was wonderful! God used Gary and Evelyn in a very important way in the lives of the youth.
--Since their Guyana days, Gary and Evelyn have shared Chronological Storying materials with us. Gary is a resource that continues as he expresses his faith and the faithfulness of God.
Gary and Evelyn Harthcock have testimonies that span many years and so many countries. We love them and praise the Lord for the opportunity to know them and to serve with them. We know that even in the most difficult times their trust is in the Lord! They continue to testify that they have found HIM faithful!
Blessings, Love and Prayer,
Paul and Janet Rohde (IMB Guyana)
Isaiah 26:3

Dear Gary,

Every time we think of you and Evelyn, we thank God for you, for your faithfulness to Him, and for the beautiful way you've touched so many lives in Chiang Mai and around the world. Our son had the privilege to live in "your" house, the "Harthcock House" while he attended Grace International School. We visited Chiang Mai while we were serving in India and we were so blessed during the times we got to see you and Evelyn in person. The evidence of your joy and love is such a great testimony to the One who gave it to you!

We're sure that everyone who has known you and Evelyn have been blessed by you!

May joy and peace be yours,
Alan, Beth, Matthew & Melanie Waters

Dear Grandma and Grandpa,

I just wanted to write a letter and tell you how influential you were in my life. I know God placed you in Phnom Penh, Cambodia in order to spread His love. On a daily basis, you showed my sisters and I God's love while we homeschooled in your home. I LOVED getting kisses from Grandpa everyday as a kid! Grandma, I remember when I was sick one day and you let me lay on your lap while you read me a book. I treasure these moments. Grandpa, you blessed me by being my pen pal as a little girl. Grandma, you always remembered my favorite color was green. Every Christmas and birthday, I knew I could expect my gift in green! I loved spending most Christmas' with you in Thailand. You are truly family. Thank you for loving on me and my family! Thank you for being godly role models who consider it all joy to serve Christ! "I'll retire when the devil retires." These words will always stay with me. Thank you for being my Grandma and Grandpa! I love you more than I can write in words.

Sincerely,
Molly Ellis Woodward

Dear Grandpa and Grandma,

  How often you both come into my thoughts and prayers! I love getting updates from Mom and Dad about their visits to see you both in Chiang Mai, but I wish my sisters and I were all there to go eat at the restaurant over looking the mountains with you both. We have so many sweet memories with you; which are a constant joy to reflect on. I cherish those times.


  Growing up detached from our biological grandparents, my life was never lacking of the sweet relationship between grandkids and their grandparents. You more than filled the void! You were a constant source of love in our lives. You would sit and listen to our stories, were present at all our holidays and special occasions, and privy to all the inside family jokes and fun. You made a difference in my life by being there and loving me in a way that I was missing from my own grandparents. It made a lasting impression because I still include you both when I talk about my grandparents. You are very real to me still.

  Grandpa, you always had a big smile across your face and we knew that you were going to say something witty or to tease us girls. I remember you snapping pictures of us and sending us sweet poems. I remember that you knew the name to every flower and plant. Wish I was able to glean that knowledge now as I tend my own flower beds. You helped me find beauty in the nature around me.

   Grandma, you taught us so much about etiquette and poise. I love remembering you making your special spaghetti sauce for us all to eat. Wish I was able to get a cooking lesson on that now so that I could share it with my family. I still have many of the framed bible verses that you gifted to me over the years on occasions like graduations, wedding, and birth of my first born. I love thinking back on the afternoon tea times with you at the Weston Hotel.

  As a young woman, I was never moved to ask you about your lives and secrets to your marriage and relationship with God. I regret that so much. I wish I was able to do that now. I have always admired your relationship together. So sweet and gentle. It is so evident to those around you the love you have for each other. I'll always remember the way you both held hands, the special glean in your eyes when you told us the story of how you met, and the team approach you took to life endeavors. I pray that over my marriage daily.

  I want you to know that I love you both dearly. Thank you so much for being my Grandpa and Grandma. You will never know just how much that means to me.

Love,
Hannah

Dear Grandpa and Grandma,

I cannot express the impact you have both had on my life. I have put a lot of thought into which characteristic best describes you. When thinking back upon all the time I have know you both, I cannot help but remember the love that is evident in your lives. Through your deep commitment to the Lord, I believe that He has blessed the both of you with the gift of love. Your life of service in Cambodia and Thailand was an excellent display of your love for God and desire to see the Great Commission fulfilled. Your love for God is best portrayed by your love for the nations. I have such fond memories of celebrating the Buddhist monks birthdays in your home. Grandma, I will always remember you loving the Cambodian children and giving them smiley face stickers…sometimes your sticker was all they were wearing  

I'm thankful for the time God has given me to observe your love for each other. The joy of serving each other and caring for each other has been an example to me and I desire to have a similar love for my husband. Grandpa you have always treated Grandma with a tender and gentleness. 

Your love for me and my family has not gone unnoticed. I remember the many sweet things you did to show my sisters and I that we were a family, from Grandma's delicious candied peanuts, fairy bags, how she always remembered our favorite colors and incorporated them in our birthday gifts, to Grandpa's sweet letters, poems and daily need for a kiss! I can confidently say you impacted my life as a child and teenager. I am grateful for the time and love you both poured into my life over the years. You will always be family!

I love you more than a thousand red M&M's!

Bethany Ellis (Henshaw)

To the Harthcocks,

Our family has along history of interaction with you both. I can still well remember when you came and stayed in Alaska and helped with so many things in Alaska.  I vividly remember you staying at our house in North Pole and getting to know you there. Little did I realize that our paths would cross again – not in a cold place – but in the warmth of Southeast Asia.  You have both always been such an inspiration to me as well as my parents. I remember spending time together with you in Chiang-mai riding in the back of the yuk-tuk together – my mom still talked of that time.  I fondly recall the weeks you spent teaching English in the Intensive English program at New Era college and what a blessing you were to both the college and the students there.  I remember taking you to the cloth place so that you could buy material to have your trademark match outfits made.  It was always so apparent how much you were in love with each other and that always brought a smile to my face.  Both of you have made an indelible impression on my life and your faithful servant hearts are something that every believer would do well to emulate.  My own dad dies in Southeast Asia doing what he felt God called him to do and in his Providence – it seems as if the Lord may call you to glory in the same part of the world.  Please know though that there will always be a place in the hearts of the Duncan family for Gary and Evelyn – God’s faithful servants to the end.   We love you, 
In His grip,  
Rodney and Cynthia Duncan

Thanks for giving us the opportunity to share what the Harthcocks have meant to us over the years. I met Gary and Evelyn when our family were ISC staff in the Vista Pacific office 2002-2005. Evelyn and Gary were very encouraging to us. I met with them in their apartment a couple of times, and they shared with me the ESL books that they developed together. They were always editing, adding illustrations, and improving on the publications they put their hearts into. Evelyn liked sharing their pictures of her ESL students, and had so many fascinating stories. They never wanted to charge anyone for their publications, and paid for printing them with the personal funds.
When our son Ryan turned 13, we went out to lunch after church, and Gary encouraged Ryan in the Lord, to be a godly man.
I was always inspired by the Harthcock’s desire to spread God’s love with whoever they met. They shared with me stories of how God used them in West Africa (“Help me small”) and Mongolia, as well as stories of befriending monks in Cambodia and Thailand (Into the Buddhist mind). They wore the same design on their shirts when they came to church.
I am thankful for their love and devotion to Jesus, and their commitment to serve him wherever he leads.

Love, In Christ, Aubrey Truex

Dear Gary and Evelyn,

It was so good to see you on Friday! We loved reminiscing with you and hearing stories about how God is at work in the world around us. We rejoice with you in how the Lord is caring for you through so many dear people. We just want to hug each one!! Evelyn, I'm so sorry you could not share your story with us, but you looked lovely as usual. I tried to tell Andy the story of how you two met during WW II but I could not remember all the funny and romantic details. Maybe you could tell us that story when we come next?

As I pray for you this morning, I pray that you both can rest in His Presence and receive the blessings He has for you today. May your day be filled with trust, thankfulness, and joy. I read Jesus Calling this morning:

DO NOT HESITATE TO RECEIVE JOY FROM ME, for I bestow it on you abundantly. The more you rest in My Presence, the more freely My blessings flow into you. In the Light of My Love, you are gradually transformed from glory to glory. It is through spending time with Me that you realize how wide and long and high and deep is My Love for you. Sometimes the relationship I offer you seems too good to be true. I pour My very Life into you, and all you have to do is receive Me. In a world characterized by working and taking, the admonition to rest and receive seems too easy. There is an intricate connection between receiving and believing: As you trust Me more and more, you are able to receive Me and My blessings abundantly. Be still, and know that I am God. But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord. 2 CORINTHIANS 3 : 18 (NKJV) . . . so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge— that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. EPHESIANS 3 : 17 – 19 “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” PSALM 46 : 10

You two embody this transformation more than any I know. What an amazing trip, glory to glory! We are praying for your journey. Thanks for praying for ours!

Loving you, Lisa

Dear Gary,
You don't know how much I enjoy keeping up with the two of you. I pray for
you every morning and I will continue lifting you up.
Whether you remember us or not, we were living in Guyana when we took our
first Stateside. You stayed in our home for a few months. I wish we could
have gotten to know you better personally. But regardless of that, I'm
glad to know how you're doing and how you're encouraging others as you and
Evelyn walk this path. We all will walk the same path one day, from here
to heaven. I wish I knew what it looked like and what heaven will be like,
but that's what faith is all about. Wherever it is and whatever we will be
like it will be perfect because it's the home our Father has created for
us.
May our Father wrap both of you in His warm Spirit, give you mercy and
peace in abundance. Thank You, Heavenly Father for Jesus...the Lamb of
Heaven who takes away every sin. In His Special Love,
Gary Harthcock
>

Garey B Scott, Sr

Hello Gary,

David and I just wanted to tell you that we are thinking of you and praying for you during this time. Both you and Evelyn were so very special to us when we served in Thailand. You were such an inspiration to us and to so many others. Your selfless service, love and concern for the people on this side of the world has truly shown so many of us how to do the work that God has called us to do. God has used you in more lives than you will ever know and we praise God for the opportunity to know you and work alongside of you these past years. Your lives have served as an example in so many ways, but one that really stands out to me at this moment is your constant faithfulness until the very end. I have heard how you have been using your time as you have been by Evelyn’s side caring for her. The fact that you continue to write materials and encourage others in need is just another incredible testimony of how you bless others and spur us all on to good deeds. We wish we were there now to be with you face to face, but since we are not please know that we are interceding on your behalf. You have truly blessed us and we love you so very much. David, Nora, Parker, and Halle Gass

Gary and Evelyn (one cannot be spoken of without the other) … just their names bring pictures in our minds of PT Place in Chiang Mai seeing them waiting for the Red Truck to come to shuttle them to Central. With backpacks in place they were on a mission to share – share ESL helps, share Jesus, share themselves. In a few words we would describe them as “giving”, always “giving”.  The many lives touch by them could not possibly be numbered. For sure it is a rippling effect that will never end, never – to the ends of the earth.
   We served with the LEAD team and always traveled with materials from the Harthcocks because we knew that we would encounter students throughout the semester who would be trying to reach people through the teaching of English. We could share these resources knowing that the hard work of Gary and Evelyn would impact lives through the One Story series.  It was always such a blessing to get reports from those who used the Harthcock materials and then to report back to them to let them know that in places where they had never been their supplies were impacting lives for our Lord. 
  LEAD team often invited Evelyn and Gary to be a part of our fellowship times. We always said that they were our honorary LEAD team members. They were eager to hear how God was working throughout South Asia. The encouragement that they gave to us was a vital part of our ministry. 
  Of course their commitment to each other is continuing to this very day. Gary, your dedication to the care of Evelyn is such a witness to the many seeing how lovingly you have seen to her needs.  One special memory that we have is taken from a visit to Ram 1 Hospital in Chiang Mai. We were there one day for treatment and while waiting to see the doctor realized that the hospital had some new ambulances – beautifully painted with some pictures on them. Upon closer examination we saw that Evelyn’s picture was on the side of the ambulance advertising their good care. Isn’t it amazing how God has provided for Evelyn and Gary to “live” in the hospital? When we heard this we chuckled and knew it could work. One day Kathy was at the hospital and was waiting to get a prescription filled. When the nurse saw her address was PT Place, immediately came the question: “Oh, you know Miss Evelyn? She lives at PT Place. She is such a nice lady.” 
  The simple words “THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE” seem so inadequate to express our appreciation to Gary and Evelyn.  Thank you for always being such an encouragement to us, for always giving of yourselves, for always being available and ready to be His servants.

Love and Appreciation,
Ron and Kathy Copple

Dan and Tricia Dougherty

THOUGHTS ON EVELYN HARTHCOCK

   So how does a Christian finish well? We met Gary and Evelyn for the first time in their 80's. Though physically they had slowed down, they made a point to be on the front row of church every Sunday. Then, one day, we got news that they were holding a special baptismal service for a young lady they had brought to Christ. Being new to Thailand and bad in language, we realized we had no excuse to not share Christ in a greater way also.
   After a couple of years, when unable to attend services, we would stop by and visit Evelyn and Gary at their home. What a revelation to see their busy life of writing, connecting and being such gracious witness folks for Christ. In fact one visit to their hospital room (a short stay for Evelyn) revealed a witness table of literature to share with all who visited. 
   I think however, that Evelyn's greatest impact on our lives was that she was always the gracious host. Even in pain and some confinement, a visit never happened without offer of drink and snacks with plans to eat out. When most folks would let pain and loss of mobility make them self-centered, Evelyn was always others centered to show the love of Christ.
   Age and health needs may rob Evelyn of ability to fulfill her heart of care, but it has never dimmed her love of the Saviour and others. What a legacy she leaves for all who know her to use every day God gives us to love others to grow closer to the Saviour she loves.

Thank you Evelyn that those who come behind you (Dan and Tricia), have found you faithful to the Saviour.

A tribute to Evelyn Harthcock

Gary and Evelyn are the first American Christians we have ever met. God bring them into our lives in a miraculous way in June of 1990 on their way to Mongolia. Since then, their love and living testimony of God’s grace has been a great blessing and lasting impact in our lives. We are deeply grateful for them and attribute our accepting the Christian faith largely to their faithful prayer and witnessing.
Evelyn is a unique lady. She is full of love, wisdom, and humor. I remember she joked about American teachers who teach English in China without Southern accent as “not teaching English the right way”
She lovingly collects and sends us many little gifts from all over the world. We still have those dear memorable items in our home. They will continue to remind us of her grandmotherly love.
She is full of energy and never short of words. She does most of the talk for Gary  But out of many things she said to me, one that will stay with me forever. When she was helping Gary to recover from cancer in 1995, she told me: “Worry is an insult to God.”
In 2004, I met Gary and Evelyn in Beijing. They stayed in a hotel on the campus of Tsinghua University, my alma mater. I vividly remember she witnessed and shared the Gospel to an American professor at the restaurant of the hotel. It is to my astonishment that she was so natural and sincere as she bring the Gospel to intellectuals, and she didn’t waste any opportunity to be salt and light in the world.
Evelyn, you are our endeared grandmother and sister-in-Christ. We love you, thank you, and look forward to seeing you again in our heavenly home. May God bless you and embrace you!
LOVE,
Jane Zhao (on behalf of her husband Jersey Song)

Evelyn Affected my live for positively

I met Evelyn and Gary Harthcock in 1986 when they arrived in Voinjama, Lofa County, Liberia, West Africa. They arrived to replace Thomas Smith family who had served as Southern Baptist Missionary in that part of Africa. After their first service at Mt. Carmel Baptist Church in Voinjama, Everlyn took over the literacy ministry in the church where she taught women to read and write English language. Many of those she had taught received Jesus as Lord and Savior and were baptized. She also taught English Composition to young boys and girls who were preparing for university placement exams. Many of those she taught also received Jesus as Lord and Savior. She used to provide food for the needy and paid school fees. Evelyn and husband traveled to villages and towns in Lofa county to share the love of Christ for about 3 years. She and the husband regularly visited the Telewoyan Hospital and local prison sharing the love of Christ. Due to their regular visitations, She and her husband became known and were always welcome to these two institutions. Both the local prison and hospital staff welcome the Harthcock to always go pray for prisoners and the sick.
I'll remember Everlyn for her love for humanity. Her greatest desire was to see others come to the saving knowledge and make decision to follow Christ. As I reflect the life of Everlyn, I'm totally convinced that she has fought a good fight and has finished her race just as apostle Paul and their lies ahead a crown like all others the Lord as called in glory. I'm thankful that her life was a reading gospel to many who did not have a copy of the Bible.
Thanks and Goodbye Evelyn!

In Christ,

Massa Kollie from Liberia, West Africa.

Dear Gary: It has been a long road for you and Evelyn. You have been a wonderful, faithful companion all these years and, especially, the past several years.
Our prayers continue to be with you at this time. God has blessed you both with an amazing staff of care givers. We are so thankful for that.
We look forward to our reunion with both of you. Blessings, Kenneth and Joyce

Dear Gary,
Our hearts are with you as Evelyn passes from this life into God’s Eternal Kingdom. So sorry we are not with you during this grieving time and plans for her funeral. Our Prayers, Thoughts and Love are with you from across the ocean!

Much Love and Hugs,
Quintin, Kim, Kati and Nate Ratliff

Dear Gary and Evelyn,

We are lifting you both up to the Father. May He be gentle with both of you and show you His kindness in tangible ways.

We love and respect you both.

Blessings,
Lynn and Woody Thigpen

To God be the Glory. I love you, Gary. I love you, Evelyn. I wish I could be with you especially now. Please tell Evelyn thank you for being such a thoughtful, special friend and sister to me and my ESL endeavors. And that I will see her on the other side...the best side!!! With all my love, Barbara Mang

Dear Gary,
I'm united to you both in prayer during these lasts days of Evelyn's life here on earth. I hear the Lord calling her and saying, 'Come you blessed of my Father, receive the reward prepared for you'. As you and Evelyn have lived so united these many years she will still be in your heart Gary, comforting you during your last years while preparing a place for you there in our Father's house.
You have created so many wonderful and spiritual memories together in the Lord's service to so many nations, and people of so many different religions, showing the Father's and Jesus' FACE of LOVE, PEACE, CARE, COMPASSION and HOPE, in all you did. The Lord entrusted the two of you with this marvellous mission and you both responded fully not counting any cost to yourselves, and to me, that is continuing to live out the sacrifice of Jesus, responding to Him without hesitation and giving all for Him.
I thank the Lord that you were in my life and you have given me so much inspiration to live close to Jesus and listen to his voice and go where he leads. Because of this I have had so many adventures with him and encountered with him many people from all over the world and I've been blessed.
May His blessing be on you both especially during these next days as you say adieu until you meet again in our heavenly home. I shall be in constant prayer for you and with you these days and may the Lord surround you with His peace and comfort Gary.
love and prayer
Joan Margaret

Dear Brother Gary,
We are praying for Evelyn as she crosses to glory and for you as you hold her hand through this experience and as you continue to love and serve Jesus there at the hospital.
Love, Melissa and Nathan H.

To Gary in memory of Evelyn,
Dear Gary, What a blessing you and Evelyn have been to me. Thank you so much for including me as one of your 'daughters'. You both radiate God's sweetness and love. Evelyn was so giving, always ready to share a poem, a flag, something nice. Her cheeks were so soft to kiss. She will be missed. Gary, you are especially special to me because you remind me of Dad.... your joy, the twinkle in your eyes, your love for people and your love for God's Word and practise of redeeming the time in writing things that benefit others spiritually. Praise God for being able to see the fruit from your lives in Thai and others. I'm thankful for your youthful countenance which testifies that "Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord and whose hope is the Lord." Thank you for the example you have been to me and so many. I know that God will continue to order your steps and delight in your way. I'm reminded of a chorus my family enjoys...
"How good is the God we adore, our faithful unchangable friend,
whose love is as great as His power and knows neither measure nor end.
Tis Jesus, the first and the last, whose spirit shall guide us safe home,
We will praise Him for all that is past and trust Him for all that's to come."
God be with you and bless you Gary!
Anabel Rulison

When I recalled my sweet memories with Evelyn, I am always very thankful for receiving His grace through Evelyn’s gracious love. My first met Evelyn was in 2001, she was looking for someone who can direct her to the Hearing aid clinic at Suan Dok hospital. I wrote my name on her pocket notebook just in case if she needed my help. A month later, she gave me a call at the hospital and invited me to meet her. I never thought by accepting her invitation, my belief has completely changed. My new journey began.
My first question to her was “How I can be happy like her?” ‎ I was hoping to hear her tips to becoming a happier person. Surprisingly, she answered humbly “I have asked God to lead my life everyday"
More questions run into my mind--- Why her life depends on God? Why she trusts in her God? Does her God exist? Can her God help me? Will her God love me? She started showing me her True story book---my life with God begins on the first chapter of the True story. The answers for my questions are found in Jesus Christ, the son of God.
Evelyn is a very talent teacher. I just love and enjoy being her student. I am always so grateful for her patience with me. We spent hours after hours together and never boring. How so wonderful and noble Evelyn is---I have learned and found more goodness of her from her childhood life, her willing to push the cart to help a poor man to move up to the hill, her nurse aid volunteer during World War II, and her life in Africa, Mongolia, Cambodia and all over the world to share the good news to people (and to me). My attitudes and personalities gradually change to trust in God's plan. When ‎I look at Evelyn's life I saw the obedient child of God; I experienced her loving God fills her heart, soul and mind; she always wants to be helpful to other. Living water runs through her life to all nations. Evelyn, you are my great teacher, and my beloved mom. It is impossible for me to stop loving you. If I may be so bold as to say that you are my parent in Christ. 
You are blessed and peace in His hand.
Gai, your Thai daughter.
September 14, 2015

A sad time of departure, but we know that Evelyn will be greeted in heaven not only by Jesus, but by multitudes who have preceded her there because of the faithfulness of both of you in introducing them to the Savior. Our prayers continue to be with you.
Fred & Leona

dear Gary, I am so sorry about Evelyn's pending homegoing. But the next life is far better than this one and all of us will soon join her. Then we will have a very happy reunion and talk over old times. Blessed are we indeed to be loved by our Saviour. Love and blessings, Billie

“He gathers the lambs in His arms and carries them close to His heart…” Isaiah 40:11

So sorry, yet rejoice as Evelyn moves on to her
heavenly Home. She was such a great Christian
lady and now she will be with her Lord - what a
rich experience. God bless you as you rest and
adjust to the days ahead. 
Praying for you daily. Rita Roberts

Dear Brother Gary,

Thank you for this update. We were so thankful for the moments this summer that we were able to spend with you and Evelyn. It was especially special to us that we were able to introduce our children and grandchildren to you. We will treasure those moments! 

We are saddened to hear this news, yet know she is going home and will be at rest. We are so thankful for her life and the lasting investments that both of you have made through the years in countless lives. You both have impacted our lives with an eternal investment. Isn't is wonderful to grieve as those who have hope?

Please know of our constant prayers for you as you walk these days. You have reflected the faithfulness of our Lord as you have faithfully served Evelyn through these days of confinement. We will be asking the Lord to faithfully minister to you and give you strength and peace. Our desire would be to be there with you as you take this journey, but God knows and has united us through His Spirit.

We love you dearly,
Jim and Kim Day

Dear Papa Gary,

I am sorry to hear the news . But just as you said , it is a perfect destination for 96 years old. And now Evelyn is going to be with the only One True God . She is going to have eternal life in the heaven. And this place is also be the place when all the people who believe in Him , and one day we will be reunion in this place .

I am glad that she has no pain and be taken good care by Gai, the nurse, doctors and you. I only worried that you will feel lonely . I miss you so much . How I wish I could be with you at this point ! Although we can not see , I hope you will not feel alone since you have your daughters love you so much.

These days I am thinking about Evelyn . I remembered that she has told me about her family and her mom . She also told me how she first meet you .The picture of young Evelyn is in my mind. She is such a lovely , kind , beautiful, out-going lady. We all love her so much! And now she is going to be with her parents soon.

These days I am also thinking about death. To be a human being , everyone has to face death. Since we have different beliefs in the world , people have different attitude towards death . I can see Papa Gary and other Christianity do not fear death . We think this is a time we could return Father's home, the heaven and will have no pain, no suffering under His protection. So we do not fear death . Just think this is a way to go home. As u know, My grandmom also passed away on 4th, August . Many our Relatives here have no beliefs and they are scared about death. I am glad that in my life I can know Jesus through you . In this case, one day when I face death I will not be afraid .

With much of love ,

Lhamo

We knew one day this would come. Ithank God for each precious day youve had with your bride. God will keep you in His sweet love. today and days to come

Gary,

        We all have a chance to impact eternity during our time on this earth. Praise the Lord that you and Evelyn have lived your life to the fullest, praising the Lord, and ministering to so many to show his love to others. You and Evelyn will be in our prayers as you go through this time of transition.

Love, Aubrey & Kathy

Gary,
        We love you two so much!
        Our prayers are with you and Evelyn in these days. We wish we could visit but we know we will see Evelyn again. She will be waiting for us. I can imagine her sitting there talking and telling stories with her sweet smile! 
We love you,
Anne

Our Dear Friend Gary,  How we praise God for your beautiful testimony which was so very encouraging to us all. Our heartfelt love, thoughts, and prayers are with you both during this time as you wait with the Master, assuring you that we are right there with you in spirit. May God continue to bless, strenghthen and give you his words as you bless and encourage so many others. Please keep us updated as we pray for you both always.
In His love and grace,
Art & Martha Haylock

Dear Gary,
Greetings from Pakse, Laos!

WOW - the story has been amazing listening and watching the two of you.
I know this is a hard time - but you are strong than I!
I learn from you.

Edward - and Pailin, Geng-Fah & Pinmanee

Dear, dear Gary and Evelyn,

We are so sorry to hear your latest news and we are praying for both of you as you make this last journey together. You both have been faithful in ministry and following wherever the Lord led you. The greatest journey is yet to come and we know you will make it well. We praise Him for you, for your lives, for your faithfulness, for your positive attitude throughout these difficult days. God bless you…

We love you both ,
Marvella & Glen

Gary and Evelyn,

We have been keeping up with you and Evelyn in several ways. Notes from friends and especially the updates directly from you. Your last notes meets us with a big mixture of sorrow and grief which is met with joy and happiness all at the same time. It is in those moments that we see the way in which the Lord has created us all; such a huge mixture of true emotions. But there is something wonderful about thinking of our real home in Heaven with the Lord forever. A perfect, whole and healthy body, and joining in the eternal worship. Part of that cloud of witnesses waiting for all of us.

We know you are being taken care of very wonderfully by the Ram Hospital staff. We know they love you both very much. We know that even in this situation, they are all seeing and hearing a witness of the Truth of the Gospel. That is what you have always wanted and what your lives have been about. Or, as Evelyn would say, “We have no intention of retiring until Satan does!” What a faithful witness to the end! An amazing way to cross the finish line, even without the ability to take a single step. It is the witness of the heart and life.

It has been a long time since we left Chiang Mai and moved to India, but our memories are great. PT Place has never been the same since you moved out. For the time we lived there, it was an honor to be among your neighbors, a joy to do some small errands for you, bringing a meal from Soi 13, and the other things of everyday life. We will always have the joy and memories of joining the two of you for a day out to a restaurant. The huge and funny moments of both of you joining with the LEAD team for special gatherings and holidays. While you could stand out in a crowd due to your spirit and humor, dressing alike didn’t hurt! Of course, our personal favorite, Evelyn wanting you to tell the story of how you met and fell in love! Even more funny when she would take the telling of the story within moments, and at the same time, reminding you to not forget the funny parts.

You both have been great role models for us and many others. Your legacy is all the lives you have touched in so many different ways…including us.

Blessings and joy,
Michael and Denise Wright

Uncle Gary

This is Yvonne Malcolm Thomas from the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Prayers continued for Aunty Evelyn,

Love you all lots,

God Bless you both.

Yvonne

As this day is a sad day, grand Evelyn who we love passed away.
Even though, she will not be with us now as a physical body on earth but she will always here with us in our hearts and souls. Deaw and I are grown up by your mercy and love without both of you, we will not become as who we are today. Thank you for introduce God to us and let us became family in Christ with you.
Right now, I'm sure that Grand Evelyn is smiling and hope all of us know that she is in the best place and in God's hands. When we lose someone we love so much, sorrow and sadness will come but thank you God that he will bring joyful and peace to us and let us know that he never left anyone behind.
He reassures us that we will see the one we love again in his kingdom and want us to continue our life with hope and faith.
We love you Grand Pa and we will be with you. No matter what Love, Phak

Dear Gary,

So sorry for your loss, yet so happy in Jesus that Evelyn is with Him and among all the adoring angels and saints of God.

May God’s nearness be your good (Ps 73:28).

Blessings…

Chip and Suzie Collins (Suriname and what formerly was the Caribbean Communications Center)


“But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if
only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the
Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God” (Acts 20:24).

Heavenly Father, Gary knew this time was coming, but we can never really
be ready to say good-bye to one who is loved so much. Gary witnessed all
You did for Evelyn. Yet, there is an emptiness in his heart that only You
have filled. Grant him mercy, grace and peace. Thank You for Evelyn's
testimony of Your faithfulness. All these years You have kept them and
they have faithfully served You. I pray the hospital staff and doctors
will become Gary's family. Use them to minister to him in this time of
being alone...but we're never really alone. You are with us and will never
leave nor forsake us. Wrap Your loving arms about Gary and lift him up. I
hear rejoicing in his writing...rejoicing that Evelyn no longer suffers in
her physical body. Now she is with the Lord and awaiting Gary's
"graduation." Give him work to do that will bless Your name and honor You.
I ask for this in the precious loving name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.



Garey B Scott, Sr

Our lives intersected with Brother Gary and Evelyn in 2003. 

We attended and were participating in a then called AGM in Bangkok that year. It was the year that the board had asked you to start to draw on your retirement. It was the first time that we heard you say the words, "we will retire when the devil retires". We were struck by your confidence that God had brought you and He would keep you as long as He desired. God would call us to join the work in Thailand and be on the same team with you in 2005. You ministered to us in countless ways as we walked together in Chiang Mai. The times you took us out to dinner and encouraged us, the stories that you told, the countless lives that we knew were impacted with the gospel because of your lives and ministry, the monks, the fairy bags, the smiles, the love, the talks through sermons, and countless other ways our lives have been blessed because of you. Our lives are richer because of you. We thank God for you. Our hearts are grieving with the passing of Evelyn, but we don't grieve as those who have no hope, and in that we rejoice. We pray for you, Brother Gary as you continue the journey the Lord has you on. We love you and are forever grateful that God chose to intersect our lives.

Jim and Kim Day
Chiang Mai, Thailand 2005
Serving in Oklahoma presently

Dear Grandpapi -

I just wanted to let you know how heart warming your words were describing Grandmami's passing. It was almost like she held on to make sure all of us were taken care of, especially you. But now she's an angel in heaven that can watch over all of us, without the pain she had been suffering.

I'm also writing to let you know what an impact you and Grandmami have had in my life. You both have been an inspiration since the day I was born, and there are thing Grandmami taught me that have made be a better person and that I will take with me throughout my journey in life - a life that may have not been possible with you and Grandmami taking in my mother. My mother, my father, my sister and I are eternally grateful. I hope these words bring you some joy in this time of sadness.

I wish my mother and I could be there to comfort you in this time. If it weren't for the kindness of all the great people surrounding you, we would be. I hope I get the chance to make it to Thailand at some point to meet the family you have made over there. Please let me know if there is anything I'm able to do from across the oceans.

Love your granddaughter in South Carolina,

Catie

What a wonderful life this beautiful angel has led during her 94 years on earth. I will start by saying this. Even though Auntie never had any biological children, she has helped raise several “sons and daughters” all over the world. I will single out one that stands out in my mind. This “son’s” name is Shawn. He lived in Antigua when Auntie and Uncle Gary served as missionaries. Shawn needed surgery on his hand and his family could not afford to have this done in Antigua. Auntie found a doctor in Statesville, NC who agreed to perform the surgery, free of charge. Auntie accompanied him on the plane and served as his “mother” for months prior, during and after his surgery. What a servant heart she had to help this young boy, who was probably 6 years old at the time. I might not have all the facts exactly right, but you get my message. 

On a personal level, Auntie was like my second Mother. Carmen takes price in saying she is Daughter #1, so I will say I am Niece #1. It was due to the generosity of Auntie and Uncle Gary that I had wonderful trips and vacations all over the US, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean Islands. We would take trips out west during the summer when I was pre-college and memories of those times together will remain as wonderful and happy times during my younger life. We even went to CA and Canada during my high school graduation, thus missimg the ceremony. But I wouldn’t have traded graduation for that wonderful trip any day!

I want to honor Auntie with two adjectives that she excelled in living to perfection.

1. THANKFULNESS - I can’t remember a single time that “thank you” in EXCESS didn’t come out of her, both vocally and on paper. And I might add, she instilled on everyone in her family the importance of being grateful and making sure you knew the importance of showing that gratitude to everyone.

GENEROSITY - Auntie loved to help people who made crafts in every country she lived and visited. She bought them and shared them with all her loved ones. You could go in every house they lived and a “show and Tell” room with all these treasures would be in plain view. She was proud to own them and would give anyone who was interested the history behind each item. She loved to carry out what she called “fairy bags” - mailing packages throughout the years of things she bought and wanted to share with you. A generous heart to the max!

I will close by saying that everyone who met her will have memories in their hearts and minds to remain with them as long as they live. Whether it be a thank you note that she instilled you to write, a present from Thailand, Cambodia or Africa that you received from her, or most importantly for the Christian role model that she has left with each of us, we will miss her here on earth but look forward to hugging her neck and reuniting with her in heaven when we all join her there. We love you, Auntie, and thank you for the many ways you enriched our lives.

Debbie Mikeal

Dear Gary,

We love you! We love Evelyn! We are praying for you and all those around you today. You touched and impacted our lives in those days you served in Guyana. You touched the lives of Guyanese all over the country. Today, with your message of faith - you again challenge and comfort all of us.

Know that we are sad, but, Oh! so glad that God is Faithful to all HE promised!

Blessings and love for the days to come,
Paul and Janet Rohde

Dear Gary,

I thank the Lord for your loving kindness shown to both Paul and me over the five years we spent together in Chiang Mai.  Yours and Evelyn's relationship, as husband and wife, was one to be admired and to be an example for all married couples. I loved to watch your face, as you looked at dear sweet Evelyn when she spoke. Your expression was always full of love and honor toward her every time. It was awesome for me to watch the love you had for each other.  You were always gracious and kind toward her and a true example of how husbands should love their wives, and how wives should honor their husbands. Thank you for being a wonderful living example to all who had the honor and privilege to know you.

You are truly a man after God's own heart and He has blessed you with wonderful gifting that you have generously shared with hundreds, no thousands, of other believers and non-believers alike.

Your precious Evelyn is always with you, even though not in the physical sense, and I truly believe that when the Lord comes to take you home Evelyn will be right there with Him to welcome you. What a beautiful reunion that will be!!!  Praise the Lord!

I will continue to hold you up in prayer. May the Lord Jesus fill you with His peace and may our Father God wrap you in His blanket of love. Grieving is difficult but in the Lord it is sweet because our love ones are with Him.

With love and prayers your sister in Christ,
Donna Rakowski

Dearest Gary,
You are in my thoughts and prayers. Much love to you and grace and peace as you and Jesus walk through the next chapter of your life.
The two of you have been amazing examples to me of what Christ can do with yielded vessels! I rejoice with her and I pray for comfort for you.
She just wanted to go on ahead so that she can be there to welcome you when you address changes!
I love you my dear brother.
In Him,
Laura

Dear Gary,

Your and Evelyn's friendship meant so much to Connie and I, although we did not get to spend much time with
you in Chiang Mai while doing LEAD Team preparation. Your love and friendship as our brother and sister in
Christ was such a blessing to us. We know not only that our Lord Jesus has received Evelyn home in His loving
arms but that He also is holding you in His loving arms while you are here on earth. May you know His presence
in a special way as you abide in His love, joy and peace during these days.

ybiC,

braxton & connie (I Jn. 5:9-12)

My dearest Evelyn I will never forget you, you were and still are an inspiration to me. Thank you for taking the time to befriend and mentor both Paul and me. You were an amazing woman of God and you shared His heart where ever He sent you. I loved your beautiful spirit and your big generous heart. You and Gary blessed our home with your presents as we shared our holidays together and you were an example of Christ love to the young people who gathered at our table. They not only enjoyed the holiday feasts, but they were always very excited to know that you and Gary, as part of our family, would gracious with your presence. What wonderful memories we all have of the time spent together. I will never forget how much we enjoyed how you and Gary accommodated us on one such evening by when I asked you to dance one dance to Nat King Coles sonf "Unforgettable" it was a beautiful site which brought tears to my eyes and joy to all of us watching you arm in arm dancing to those beautiful words. 

It was only a short 5 years the time spent with you but the most memorable by far. I look forward to seeing you again and then we will be singing and dancing before our Lord for all eternity. 

In loving gratitude with a grateful heart,
Donna

Our beloved Gary,

Thanks for letting us know the home going of Everlyn. Our prayers are with you as we celebrate her faithfulness to Christ, the King of kings.
By His Love,

Kollie & family

May God give you the strength that you need for what you face in the hours before you and HIS Grace for every moment. May HE carry you in His righteous right hand.

In Jesus,
Clifford and Peggy Dane
Brazil and Belize

Gary:

I extend my sympathies to you in the loss of Evelyn. It was so good to have you both in my home at times, and to have fellowship with you and Evelyn. All at Central Baptist here in Melbourne will never forget your parts in our ministry. I pray that you will continue in your teaching ministry.

I turned 91 last week, and while I won’t catch you in age, I will certainly catch up with you—and Evelyn—in Glory. Maybe I can fix breakfast for both of you again, or have you visit me in my room there.

I am praying for you, Gary

Harry Sauter