This was sent to me by Stan's Mother's Pastor, George Morris, on the morning of September 2, 2008:
I don’t know if you are aware, Stan’s mother died this morning. I’m her pastor. I was with her on Sunday. She was 92 + years of age.
Stan and I served on the Youth Council of the Southern New Jersey Conference of the United Methodist Church. I believe in the 70’s. he was a teen at that time. He was much like his father – G. Stanley McCleave.
I was fortunate to be appointed pastor of Trinity UMC in Ewing, NJ. Stan’s dad built that church and move two inner-city congregations to their new suburban location. He was a pastor to his people. Greatly loved.
Marjorie was an outstanding person. I’ve appreciated my visits with her at Pitman Manor. She still led the choir and did a number of other things. Even Sunday, so very ill, but fully aware. In a whisper she said, “I’m having trouble talking.” We sat together in silence, I updated her about the church. We held hands and shared a prayer. I know she is in God’s presence today.
I’m not too far from Fort Dix. I’m going to follow your blog and when Stan is moved find out how I can visit him.
I will do anything I can to be supportive of him during this time.
My middle son was in prison for four years on an eight year sentence. I visited him every week. What seemed like an eternity, the time went by. I trust Stan understands that what has happened to him does not need to define him. Our “shadow” side sometimes gets the best of us, but is not who we are as persons. With a little help from his friends and by God’s presence with him, he will get through this valley.
What a good friend you are!!
George Morris
Senior Pastor
Haddonfield United Methodist Church
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2 comments:
We went last week to visit Stan at the Jesup Penitentiary in south Georgia. It was not an unpleasant experience as we were able to sit with Stan for a long time and talk and talk.
Needless to say we had lots to talk about but Stan did mention that he loves receiving and answering your letters - they are interesting to him and give him food for thought.
He is taking classes in French and drawing that are taught by other inmates. He has daily jobs and he enjoys that they keep the time from being tedious. Slowly, he is getting to meet others and he does not feel threatened.
He and we are still incredulous about the long sentence he has received.
Let's try to get this law changed with this new administration that is NOT beholden to the Christian right and their medieval ideas.
Happy 2009 to all.
Gerry
Glad news as Stanley has been released from supervision and is officially 'Off Paper' as he puts it. He is free to travel and is no longer required to report to the authorities in any way. He has paid his debt to society.
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