The next time you’re tempted to turn off the alarm clock and stay in bed on Sunday morning, think about “Miss Willie.”
Willie Spencer is a lifelong member of First Baptist Church, Roebuck Plaza, in Birmingham Association and she refuses to allow cold mornings to keep her at home. Technically, she’s been an official member for about 80 years. In those days, one had to be about 15 or 16 before being considered for church membership. Her parents were charter members of the church, which was founded in the 1890s.
In a Jan. 20 service this year, she was recognized and presented roses in celebration of her 95th birthday (Jan. 25). Pastor Jim Auchmuty describes her as modest. “She is so self-effacing, she insisted that we recognize all the other birthdays as well,” he said. “She doesn't want any special recognition for the things she does.”
Miss Willie has done many things at Roebuck Plaza, including providing fresh flowers for the sanctuary, singing in the choir, teaching Sunday School and playing the piano. During one of the church’s early building programs, Miss Willie even helped carry lumber to the site.
Auchmuty calls her “the matriarch of the church,” explaining, “She is here every Sunday, Wednesday and for any special events. She cares about every aspect of our church — even the finances. On a recent cold Sunday morning, her usual ride was unable to attend. Miss Willie phoned other members until she found a ride to church. She’s that faithful.”
According to longtime acquaintance Benny Smith, Miss Willie has served the church faithfully from his earliest memories. He remembers being a member of Miss Willie’s Beginners Sunday School department. She was his children’s Sunday School teacher as well. She continued to teach more than 60 years. “Miss Willie has been there as a fine, Christian woman all of my life. She’s been like another mother to me,” said Smith, now age 71.
Wynell Parson leads the Sunshine Fellowship at Roebuck Plaza, a group of senior citizens that meets monthly. Miss Willie is pianist for these meetings.
“Miss Willie is always there and is an inspiration to all of us,” Parsons said.
She also plays the piano for their Sunshine Band, members of the fellowship who play and sing for area nursing homes.
Several years ago when the group had a Christmas program scheduled, Miss Willie fell and broke her hip. Not wanting to disappoint the nursing home residents, she had her therapist rig for her a special belt so she could play the piano in an upright position.
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