Retha (Thrasher) Lancaster

Retha Thrasher Lancaster, a beacon of faith and love, was called to her eternal home on August 5, 2023. Born on October 10, 1933, in the heart of Alabama, she was a woman of unwavering devotion to her family, her church, and the Lord. Her life was a testament to the virtues of love, thoughtfulness, and faith, and she served as a shining example to all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Retha was a true southern belle, born and raised in Alabama, and it was there in Grant, Alabama, that she was called home to be with the Lord. Her roots ran deep in the Alabama soil, and she was a steadfast pillar of her community. She was a homemaker of the highest order, creating a warm and loving environment for her family. As the wife of a pastor, she served alongside her husband, Reverend John William Lancaster, for many years, supporting him in his ministry and sharing in his commitment to the Church of Nazarene.

Retha was an active member of the Church of Nazarene, dedicating her time, energy, and resources to the missions of the church. She was a woman of deep faith, and her commitment to the church was unwavering. She believed in the power of prayer, the strength of community, and the importance of service. Her involvement in the church was not merely an interest, but a calling, a passion that defined her life and shaped her legacy.

Retha was a loving mother, a devoted wife, and a cherished grandmother and great-grandmother. She is survived by her son, Mark (Vanessa) Lancaster; daughter, Diane (Cary) Gibbs; sister, Jerrie Patrick; grandchildren, Joshua Lancaster, Vicki DeCuypere and Andrew Gibbs; great-grandchildren, Chase Lancaster, Cannon Lancaster and Lucas Gibbs. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 70 years, Reverend John William Lancaster; her parents, Elbert and Mattie Mote Thrasher; brothers, Earl, Bill and Lonnie Thrasher; and sister, Lois Patterson.

Retha's life was marked by a deep love for her family and her faith. She was a woman of grace and dignity, always putting others before herself. She was thoughtful in her words and actions, always considering the needs and feelings of others. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life, guiding her every decision and shaping her every action. She was a woman of strength and resilience, weathering life's storms with grace and courage.

In the spirit of a true southern preacher, let us remember Retha Thrasher Lancaster as a woman who walked in faith, who loved with all her heart, and who served with all her might. Let us honor her memory by living out the values she embodied - love, thoughtfulness, and faith. Let us celebrate her life, not with sorrow, but with gratitude for the blessing of having known her. For in the words of the Good Book, "Well done, good and faithful servant."

In the end, Retha Thrasher Lancaster was not just a homemaker, a pastor's wife, or a church member. She was a beacon of hope, a pillar of strength, and a testament to the power of faith and love. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of those she touched, and her spirit will continue to inspire us all. As we bid her farewell, let us remember her not with tears, but with smiles, for she has fought the good fight, she has finished the race, and she has kept the faith. Rest in peace, Retha, until we meet again.