The Rev. Dr. Vernon and Deanna Gotcher were honored by the people of St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, Hurst, on Saturday, September 27, 2014, at a dinner at Diamond Oaks Country Club in Haltom City. The Gotchers have given a combined 90 years of ministry to the Episcopal Diocese of Fort Worth.
The event featured a silent auction, a live auction of a painting by the Rev. Tracie Middleton, deacon; and a roast of the Gotchers. Becky McKneely, senior warden, welcomed everyone.
Prior to dinner, St. Stephen’s music director, Stan Paschal, played the piano while guests sipped drinks and perused the many silent auction items, placing bids and chatting. During dinner a slide show of photos of the Gotchers played on a screen above the head table. Jeff Boleware was the master of ceremonies, changing from impeccable tuxedo-clad host to tie-dyed daisy-tossing 1960s hippie to lab-coated economic professor with hilarious results.
“Economics professor Dr. Slushin Funde der Broak” presented Vernon Gotcher with his pension, which, after several deductions for items such as “Late Retirement Penalty Fee,” “Democrat Living in Texas Fee,” and the discovery that the currency being discussed was the Iranian rial, amounted to one dime.
Several people shared stories about Deanna and Vernon, eliciting much laughter and more than a few tears. The Gotchers were especially moved by the announcement that the sacristy in St. Stephen’s new building would be dedicated in their honor.
Bishop Rayford B. HIgh, Jr., closed the evening with some gently funny jabs at Vernon, and then in a more serious vein, thanked them for their ministries in the diocese.
Vernon Gotcher responded with his thanks, and his introduction of Deanna, “the chaplain of my soul.” Deanna Gotcher replied, Well, if I’m the chaplain of his soul, he is the captain of mine.”
The crowd rose to its feet to applaud them both. Then, after a prayer and blessing, some stayed to dance well into the night.
See more photos of the evening at the diocesan Flickr gallery.
Visit St. Stephen’s, Hurst, Facebook page for even more photos.