Michael Alan McCallister, 1949-2000The Rev. Michael Alan McCallister was born on April 5, 1949, in Covington, Virginia, to William Horace McCallister and the late Ruth Ergenbright. He graduated from Covington High School in 1967. After high school, Mike attended the University of Virginia where he received his B.A. in 1971. Following his graduation from "The University," Mike pursued his call to ministry by attending Candler School of Theology in Atlanta, Georgia, where he received his M.Div. degree in 1975. While in Atlanta, he completed 30 postgraduate hours toward his Ph.D. It was during this period of his life that he felt called to the local church. Mike’s appointments included: Cape Charles: Trinity in the Eastern Shore District (1976-1980); Bermuda Hundred in the Petersburg District (1980-1990); associate at Annandale in the Arlington District (1990-1995); and then to St. Mark’s in the Petersburg District from 1995 until his death on March 19, 2000, from cancer. The record should include his deep appreciation for the love and support that he and his family received, especially from St. Mark’s. Mike was an excellent preacher, teacher and pastor. His love for music was well-known and appreciated. Speaking of love, Mike was a husband and a father. Michael Alan McCallister married Marjorie Reese, whom he met at UVA. The marriage was blessed with two children, a son, Michael "Trevor" Reese McCallister and a daughter, Marjorie "Breck" McCallister. A memorial service was held at St. Mark’s on March 22, 2000, with Bishop Joe E. Pennel Jr., and the Rev. Wm. Anthony Layman presiding, and the Rev. Betsy C. Basehore and the Rev. Charles R. Stacy participating. The church was filled to overflowing. As the procession was beginning, one of the ushers said, "It used to be this way every Sunday." The Rev. Michael Alan McCallister, in his death, was able to fill the church. Those who came, came to express their grief, deep thanksgiving and love for one who was called to serve the local church. Amen. — Wm. Anthony Layman |