W. Gordon Webner, 1908-1989

W. Gordon Webner was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, July 22, 1908, the son of Frank E. and Mary Rachel Simpson Webner. Gordon received a Bachelor of Arts degree at American University in June 1936, and a Master of Arts degree at George Washington University in 1939. He pursued and completed residence requirements for a Ph.D. in economics and later attended Wesley Theological Seminary and received a Bachelor of Theology in May 1969.

Gordon worked as a transportation economist for the U.S. Government Service from July 22, 1933 until June, 1965, at which time, upon retirement, Major General John J. Lane, USA Commander of Military Traffic Management and Terminal Service, presented him with a Certificate of Achievement in recognition and appreciation of his .long and loyal service.

Gordon took early retirement from government service in order to become a minister. He entered Wesley Theological Seminary in September, 1965 and received his Bachelor Degree of Sacred Theology in May, 1969.

In June 1968, Gordon was appointed pastor of the South Fluvanna Charge in the Charlottesville District where he served while completing his final year of seminary. Other appointments served by Gordon were Carmel in the Rappahannock District; Fletchers Chapel in the Alexandria District; Riverton in the Winchester District; and, as retired supply, at Mountain Chapel in the Charlottesville District.

Mr. Webner attended the worship service where the writer of this memoir was preaching the spring of 1968, while on his way to meet with Bishop Gum concerning an appointment. In conversation relating to his being in seminary and his desire to serve the church, he made the statement, "Generally you would think of a minister having 40 years to serve, and I, having taken early retirement, would have only 10 years to serve, so maybe I could be a 'quarter of a loaf.' " He served his 10 years well. His wife said, "Becoming an elder in full connection in the Virginia Annual Conference, serving rural churches and the wonderful people he had the chance to serve was a 'dream come true' for Gordon."

Gordon married Elva Luella Marsh on October 12, 1940. Elva was a wonderful helpmate to Gordon for 49 years. She was truly part of his ministry to the churches and people he served during his time as a pastor.

Gordon died October 22, 1989. Memorial services were held in Sarasota, Florida.

-Joseph T. Carson, Jr.