Opal G. Henrich (née Chalker), 99, died on July 10.

Born April 11, 1927, on a small farm deep in red-dirt Georgia, Opal was one of six children of G T and Pearl Chalker (née Lasseter). Marriage to Donald E. Henrich brought her to St. Louis in 1952 – a union lasting 57 years until his death. Their love for each other continues as an anchor and example for their children and grandchildren.

Alongside Don, Opal raised three boys — Donald Byron, Dean and Dale — and considered her daughters-in-law — Diane, Dotti and Cindy — to be just as much her own. She cherished her grandchildren, Kevin (Kari), Luke, Kate, Laura, Dan (Rebecca), and Danielle (Jamie) and seven great-grandchildren. She often reminded them she was praying for them daily.

Opal’s life was full of hard work and service. As a girl, she helped her father (who was short of sons) with mule-plowing and planting. As a registered nurse, her conscientious care for patients was notable. But as a nurturing wife, mother and grandma, she was unsurpassed.

Opal had a cheerful and generous heart. She delighted in playing games with friends as well as grandchildren. While her eyesight allowed, she organized Skip-Bo rounds with fellow residents at Sherbrooke Village Living Center. In this and other ways, she formed meaningful friendships wherever she was. She noticed people who were suffering and prayed earnestly that they would find comfort in the Lord. She embodied the instructions found in well-worn pages of her Bible, “...in humility, consider others better than yourself.”

Opal was kind and honest and brave, with words and actions that displayed her love for Jesus as her Lord and Savior. No matter what joys or losses she faced, she rested in the knowledge that her eternal life is based completely on His grace, not her own merit. As physical strength failed and pain increased, she encouraged her own heart and others’: “Keep trusting the Lord, no matter how bad it gets.” She often quoted Billy Graham to say she was not afraid to die; she quite looked forward to the result—it was only the process that troubled her.

In a private interment at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, her family will lay her body to rest beside Don’s, awaiting certain resurrection.

“One generation shall commend your works to another; and shall proclaim your mighty acts. On the glorious splendor of your majesty, and on your wondrous works, I will meditate.” (Psalm 145:4-5)