Denver
Haught, age 81, died November 29, 2016 from Parkinson’s disease. He was known to Christians around West
Virginia, having preached in many congregations in Tyler County, including Burt
and Sistersville, as well as Sandyville, Romney and West Ripley.
For
a large portion of my life, he was just my dad - someone I loved, trusted, and
admired but also shared with members of the churches where he worked. It wasn’t until many years later that I
realized the relationships he had with so many Christians, and the affect he
had on their lives. The apostles named
Joses Barnabas, meaning Son of Encouragement (Acts 4:36), and I know that my
father was a Barnabas to many Christians.
Looking
back, I see Dad as being a Barnabas in the church. He was always encouraging people! As he visited friends and family, Dad
encouraged them to become Christians, return to the church or to just be
faithful in their service and attendance.
I remember hearing about how he went to high school and family reunions,
and spoke to many of his classmates about the church. He faithfully attended gospel meetings,
sings, lectureships and the like, and Dad encouraged preachers with his
handshake and kind word. His attendance
alone, especially in later years as his health deteriorated, was an
encouragement. Dad never liked to miss
out on an opportunity to be with other Christians! He encouraged many to make preaching the Word
their profession and was filled with joy when that happened. He made you feel good with his smile, his hug
and his words. Of course, encouragement
isn’t all feel-good stuff! Strong words
were said when needed, but always seasoned with much love.
If
anyone was sick or in the hospital, Dad would visit. If someone missed a service, Dad would
call. He performed many funerals and
also many weddings. While cleaning his
office, I found a large bag full of funeral calling cards – so many with his
name as the officiant. He was loved and
respected by many.
Dad
was a Barnabas in his family. He &
mom (Dorotha) celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary June 3,
2016. Mom was the most important person
in his life. He depended upon her for so
much! Many knew that he suffered from
macular degeneration, and was unable to drive.
Mom was always there to take him where he wanted and needed to go. There are 4 children, all who are serving God
faithfully where we live, Debra & Chris Tallman in Parkersburg, David &
Debra in Middlebourne, Doug & Linda and Deirdra & Timothy in
Virginia. We were taught that the Lord
comes first!
While
he has been gone a year now, there isn’t a day that I don’t think of him and
miss his voice, his advice and his smile.
The Bible mentions Barnabas in just a few places, but 2000 years later,
we have books written about him and sermons preached of him. I know for me, and my family, we will never
forget dad and how he lived his life and I pray others don’t forget the
encouragement received from my Dad, Barnabas.
