The news of the passing of Albert Shroades brought a great degree of sadness to the church in Chester. Albert spent many years of his life here. Many of his relatives are still living and are a part of the Lord's church in Chester. After his obedience to the gospel, he served the church in many different ways. He taught Bible classes, served as a deacon, and preached. After a while, his love for lost souls led Albert and his faithful wife June to begin located work. In the course of his preaching years, he served a number of smaller congregations. He quietly and effectively worked for the Lord. He did his work well and was very careful to do the best he could in his work for the Lord. He was respected and appreciated for his works' sake by many other faithful preachers of the gospel. When thoughts of retirement came to his mind, he decided to return to the Chester area and purchased a house in Newell, WV. Once more, he became active in the work of the congregation at Chester. He continued to accept preaching appointments in the area, taught the men's Bible class, and served in a number of other ways.

When the first church building was built in Chester, Albert donated many hours of labor. This work was done in 1951. In some pictures that were taken during this time, Albert is seen in his work clothes on the top of the building. He assisted both physically and financially in this important time in the development of the Lord's church in Chester. Albert, with the assistance of others, installed a hot water system of heat for the preacher's house in 1956. When a large remodeling program was undertaken in 1995, Albert again engaged in daily work at the meeting house. He made it a practice of returning to his home to have lunch with his dear wife. Many recall hearing him say when lunch time was near that he "heard June calling." This always brought a smile to the faces of others who were working with him. For these and a host of other reasons, Albert was greatly loved by the church in Chester.

One lesson Jesus taught his disciples was that He, our Master, did not come into the world to be served but rather to serve others. "But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many." (Mt. 20:25-28) This lesson is one that is clearly seen in Albert's life. He was here to serve.

He received little, but he gave much. His life's work is now over, but his example and influence continue to live on. "And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them." (Rev. 14:13) -205 Virginia Ave., Chester, WV 26034.

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