[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 156 (Friday, October 23, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1526]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                COMMEMORATING THE LIFE OF MACEL FALWELL

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                           HON. BOB GOODLATTE

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 23, 2015

  Mr. GOODLATTE. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of myself and Representative 
Robert Hurt, I submit these remarks to commemorate and celebrate the 
life of Macel Falwell. Mrs. Falwell passed away on October 15, 2015, at 
the age of 82.
  The widow of the late Reverend Jerry Falwell, founder of Thomas Road 
Baptist Church and Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia, Mrs. 
Falwell and her husband could never have imagined where God's plan 
would take them during their 49 years of marriage. She was self-
admittedly timid, but never shied away from life's experiences and 
opportunities.
  Mrs. Falwell was truly a pillar of the Lynchburg community. She 
touched many lives through her work with Thomas Road Baptist Church and 
other local organizations. Many remember the musical talents she shared 
with her congregation, while others reflect on her work with Liberty 
Christian Academy, including serving as President of the School Board. 
It is without a doubt that she leaves behind a rich legacy of service.
  But her greatest joy and role was as wife and mother. Mrs. Falwell is 
survived by three children: Jonathan, the pastor of Thomas Road Baptist 
Church, where his father preached for 51 years; Jeannie Savas, a 
surgeon; and Jerry Jr., the current president of Liberty University. 
Our thoughts and prayers remain with her children, grandchildren, and 
many other beloved family members and friends.
  As her obituary described: ``Mrs. Falwell was well known in the 
Thomas Road Baptist Church and Liberty University family as a woman of 
poise and grace. Never desiring the spotlight, she faithfully and 
quietly stood by her husband for many years as both institutions were 
founded and built but she was always most comfortable in her role as a 
pastor's wife. She was his greatest cheerleader, confidant, advisor and 
friend during their ministry together.''
  While her presence will be greatly missed by those here on Earth, we 
know that she is now at peace in heaven with her husband. Countless 
people would echo the sentiment shared by Mrs. Falwell's son, Jonathan, 
shortly after her passing: ``I can't believe I've been so blessed to 
have her in my life.''

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