'Why I Love Frank'

ParkwayHills has been fortunate to have among our membership these last 23 plus years, Rev. Frank Denton. Frank and his wife Dottie joined our fellowship when we were still meeting in Brinker Elementary School - in the early 90s, and their positive influence manifest itself in ways many may not realize but all are fortunate to see.  At a time of life when elder couples often look for that ‘comfortable’ church, Frank and Dottie pitched in our new work with gusto, marking our fellowship with their gentle warmth and wit.

After Dottie passed away in 1994, Frank continued as a faithful member – but not alone – for he was always inviting someone to church. He remained an active member of the Looney LIFEgroup, and a frequent visitor to my study with words of encouragement and ideas about how we might reach more people for Christ.  In serving and sharing Frank never tired – nor backed down. He faithfully practiced evangelism with an encouraging spirit (a rare combination) which showed by the scores of people constantly joining him along our east sanctuary wall. When ParkwayHIlls celebrated its 15th anniversary we did so by burying a time-capsule outside our Southwest door near the tollway, and it was Frank (our faithful elder) who was the last to carry the capsule 'outside' and lay it in place.  As the congregation watched him via camera ‘inside’, we solemnly realized Frank likely would not be here when the 'unearthing' time would come - 25 years forward; so we were both saddened and honored to have this gracious saint place it neath our ground and into its place of 25 year rest.

Now Frank is moving to San Antonio,Texas to be near his children. And this is good! For though at 86 his days of living alone may have passed, his ways of living large will continue as he holds influence and grace over his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and others he'll meet. For Frank, I assure you, will never 'rust out.'

A graduate of Baylor University and Southwestern Seminary, Frank served as a successful preacher, pastor, and Baptist leader for years – in both Texas and Missouri, then later as a Baptist ‘cause’ and ‘church-funds’ advocate helping to raise millions in endowment through selfless work with our Texas Baptist Foundation. But, yes... for us here at ParkwayHills, this dear friend will forever remain simply - our precious ‘Brother Frank’ – a man to be missed but ne’er forgot, and a brother we look forward to seeing again when joining hands in glory ‘crossing through' the Eastern Gate.

Pastor Sam