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Tell us about your family ...
I am blessed to have two families. I was adopted at three months old by the Owens family. They had already raised four children and had two grandchildren when they felt led to adopt me. At the time, my 17-year-old biological mother and I were living in a car in Indiana. I was very sick and was hospitalized with German measles, double pneumonia, and whooping cough. God led the Owens family to step in, adopt me, and made sure I received the medical care I needed. They also showed compassion to my biological mother and allowed her to visit while I was growing up. My biological father was married and significantly older, so they chose not to allow him to be involved. When I was 21, I searched for my to entire biological family and found many of them living in Ohio. I feel incredibly blessed to have both families and all the love that comes with them. In total, I have nine biological siblings and five adopted siblings. I also have one daughter who lives in Gainesville and five wonderful grandchildren who bring me great joy.
What led you to First Baptist Church of St. Petersburg?
My friend and neighbor, Karen Huber, invited me. She and her mother, Jean Davis, have been attending for several years and invited me to come to First Baptist. I’m grateful they did.
What is your favorite passage of Scripture and/or favorite hymn or praise song?
My favorite Scripture often changes as the Lord continues to shape me. Right now, Corinthians 13 - the “Love Chapter" - is especially meaningful to me. My favorite song is “Goodness of God.” We sang it together as a congregation on a recent Sunday, and the words truly resonate with my life: “All my life You have been faithful.” I believe God has been faithful to me from the very beginning—especially while I was still in the womb.
Where do you work?
I work part time as a bus driver for Thesman Communities, which owns Village Green Mobile Home Park. I drive residents who are elderly, disabled, or do not have transportation. Sometimes we take scenic trips, go out to eat, shop, or even visit a casino. I enjoy helping people stay connected and active in the community.
What are some of your hobbies and interests?
My greatest interest is helping those who may be struggling or in need. I often take elderly neighbors to food banks, visit them in nursing homes, cook meals for them, or help in whatever way I can. I also enjoy ministering in nursing homes or hospitals by sharing a song and prayer.
What is a fun fact people may not know about you?
I weighed only four pounds when I was born.
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I love to sing. I always say I have a song in my heart, for every occasion. If I didn’t sing, I think I might burst!
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