Thursday, January 25, 2024
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Tommie was a special man to me. He and my daddy, Claude Etheredge shared a common passion caring for old Carroll Church, also known as Plesant Grove Primitive Baptist Church. It is next to Dairy King and across from Carroll High School on Broad Street. Tommie had taken up the task to upgrade the church to have it more comfortable inside and looking better with a new paint job on the outside. Several months ago I had a visit with him and he told me of his future plans for new carpet and bathroom upgrades. The smile on his face showed the passion he had for the 146 year old church. His beloved wife, Margeret was a faithful lady to attend the all day singings at Carroll Church and brought wonderful home cooked, covered dishes for dinner on the ground. I was at the last singing Tommie attended at my Grandaddy's church. He loved the fried apple pies that I brought. He told me, he had wondered if I was there, but knew that I was when he saw the fried pies. I asked if he had gotten one and he answered no. I said well let me take care of that. So I squeezed back in line and retrived one for him. He would always welcome everyone to the singing and make announcements for the day. His last request that day was to "not forget the basket on the table, that stood in front of the pulpit, for the upkeep of the church." He said put in what you can. Then he said it would be nice to see a $100 bill. I went up to put in my donation, I saw $1 bills but mostly 5 and 10 dollar bills. I also noticed that someone had laid that $100 bill in the basket. Donations in Tommie's memory will be accepted for his beloved Carroll Church. His big smile and warm hug will always remain in my heart and mind. I am glad I went to church on January 13th and saw Tommie. Much love from Sandra
