Southern Grace was shocked and saddened to learn of the sudden death of our friend and co-minister in the music ministry, Deby Trissel.  Deby was one of the original, founding members of Southern Grace Ministries, Inc, along with Ron Benton, and Thomas Spradlen.  Deby had a powerful voice that any group would want to have, and she always sang with such immense conviction.   She also was an incredible musician on the keyboard.  Deby’s talent in song and accompaniment arrangements was exhibited in most of the songs her group sang.   Her last ministry efforts were with New Day Music Ministries where her absence will be acutely felt for a long, long time.   Southern Gospel music in Florida has lost a wonderful talent and a great friend.

Our group went back to West Orange Park Community Church near Ocoee for a Saturday night singing on January 16th that was nothing short of amazing.  The house was completely full.  The presence of the Holy Spirit was evident from the start, bringing conviction and commitments of rededication in some of the attendees.  We sang three songs that are new to SG there for the first time.  Hugh did a great job with “He came looking for me” and Jacque sang lead on the old church favorite, “I’m getting’ ready to leave this world”.  We brought back a song that The Spirituals had sang for years as well.  Ron sang lead on “When I knelt the blood fell”.  He reached those soaring high notes with ease and the song really touched the congregation and us.  What a powerful truth in the words of that song!  Thank you Pastor Wayne Howell and church for allowing Southern Grace to minister one more time at your church!

Our next singing weekend will be the last one of the month of January.  We start at the Upper Room Church on the east coast at Oak Hill on Saturday night January 30th.  The next morning will find us at the church of our dear friends, Pastor Tommy York and family and church, Sunrise Tabernacle in Ft. Pierce.  We drive a bit in the afternoon to sing at Wabasso Baptist Church.  If you are near these areas, we invite you to come join us.