Eldon J. "Deacon" Otis

In the darkness of this worldEveryone could use a beacon.God shared a good one with us,We all knew him as "Deacon".He grew up in a pastor's homeTraveling around through his younger life.But when he moved to WestfieldIt was there that he found his wife.A joy of his life was his daughter,Teresa kept his life full of fun.She added Matt to the familyAnd then Deacon had a son.For years and years Deacon and BettyHave lived here in their treasured town.His smiling face and joyful heartEncouraged us when we'd get down.Here in Westfield he was at home,He lived with us side by side.Today a whole community grievesFor the chaplain of Westfield has died.We'll miss him at Friends churchWhere a stranger he never knew.I'll always think of DeaconWhen I look at the back south pew.And how many kids do you supposeRode a bus with Ole' Deac" at the wheel?To school each day or to football gamesWith delight they would laugh and squeal.And how many trips do you supposeDeacon made outdoors with is dog?Out he would go with Andy or PacoThrough rain and sleet and fog.And how many times do you supposeWe'll shed a tear as we grieve?He was much loved, and none usWas ready for Deacon to leave.If this were the end of the storyThis day would be sad as could be.But it's not the end- it's the beginningFor Deacon has been set free.No longer is he trapped insideA body that's tired and weak.He's gone to be with Jesus,The One we all should seek.Not one of us can imagineAll the blessings that are now his there.Written with love by Doug Shoemaker August 3, 2004

Family Tree:
Spouse:	Betty Jean Dill
Children:	Teresa Otis Skelton
Grandchildren:	None listed
Parents:	Rev. R. J. Otis and Ollie Thompson Otis
Siblings:	Louise Otis Correll Charles Otis Saundra Otis Mendenhall
Grandparents:	None listed