Thanks for your service!
Published 6:22 pm Tuesday, April 2, 2019
AHOSKIE – The West Chowan Baptist Association held a reception on March 24 at the Mission Resource Center honoring the retirement of Jo-Ann Mizelle. She has faithfully served the Association as Administrative Assistant for 32 years.
Upon her retirement from the West Chowan Baptist Association, Jo-Ann Mizelle was praised for her 32 years of service to the local organization. She is shown here receiving a plaque from Rev. Terry Stockman. Contributed Photo
Members and guests of the West Chowan church families joined together to thank Mizelle for her years of service.
Director of Missions Terry Stockman opened with a prayer of thanksgiving and welcomed everyone. He testified, “It has been a joy to work with Jo-Ann. She has been and remains an invaluable resource for our Association. For her, this job has always been a calling and not just a job. She loves this Association and our people. We will miss you, Jo-Ann, but your number will remain on our speed dial.”
Rev. Stockman presented a plaque and love gift to Mrs. Mizelle.
At the reception it was evident that Mizelle is loved and respected by so many people. Over 175 people were in attendance. Past Moderator Tommy Tripp gave some remarks about retirement and aging that resulted in great laughter.
Among those congratulating and thanking Mizelle were her pastor, Zack Hicks (Askewville Baptist Church), Ken Gibson (former WCBA Director of Missions), J. M. Vick (member of Margarettsville Baptist Church), David Ross (pastor of Ashleys Grove Baptist Church), Albert Vann (WCBA Chairman of Building and Grounds) and Barbara Marks (WCBA WMU Director).
Kayla Mizelle (Mrs. Mizelle’s granddaughter) sang “I’ve Got Peace Like a River,” to the delight of her grandmother and the audience.
Following all the remarks, Mizelle thanked everyone for honoring her with their attendance. She thanked the Lord who gave her the calling to serve.
“It has been a heart-warming calling and I am so glad the Lord led me this way,” Mizelle stated.
She expressed gratitude for the reception and for the cards and love gifts.
Following the remarks, guests were invited to enjoy refreshments of cake, punch, fruit and dip, vegetables and dip, cheese straws and fudge. Tables were set with linen tablecloths and decorated with purple vases of jonquils and spring flowers.
West Chowan Baptist Association would like to thank WCBA Family/Social Ministries Committee for hosting the reception. Members of the committee are Mary Ledden (chairperson), Jeanette Tinkham, Betty Dunn, Larry Taylor, Elaine Eure, Carolyn Smith and Elsie Howard.