I have been privileged and honored to have known Ophelia, my dear sister in the Lord. In the few times we’ve been together, I have seen God’s marvelous grace at work in her life. She will continue to inspire me even if she is no longer with us. For truly the “The righteous will be remembered forever” (Psalm 112:6).

She gave up a prestigious career as a medical doctor (and became the family doctor of the many), so she could care and raise up her two boys by herself. Her support to her pastor-husband was unparalled. She was the “Tabitha” of the church she loved so well. In the few times I saw her in their church, I witnessed her untiring service. She stood tall and strong because of her love for her Savior.

The disease that ravaged her body only gave more luster to her testimony as a woman of God. I will not forget what she told me when she was getting treatment in the hospital she once worked. Her son appreciated more fully what she gave up for them and commented: “You really love us Mom, do you?” and she answered, “Of course I do!” She did not leave them millions in the bank, but she left them a lasting legacy of love that will linger from generation to generations.

Her debilitating sickness did not quench her love for the Savior and His people. She regularly updated us of her condition. What I saw in her every message was God’s sustaining grace and her unflinching faith that kept her joy and peace intact in the midst of much discomfort.

I mourn for my dear sister. Yet happy that she left an inspiring example of faith and love to Christ in my heart. Her light will not be extinguished by death.

The last time I saw her, she told me “I may not see you again, my sister.” I did not answer, but deep in my heart I know that I will see her again in the land of the living.

Goodbye my comrade in the faith, my sister, my friend.

Haydee D. Lasco

June 1, 2019