Douglassville man loses home to fire; benefit planned

Raymond Washington grew up and has lived in Douglassville Texas all his life. In 1969 he built a six room home for his family, throughout the years as his family grew he continued to add onto the house and it would eventually become a 10 room household.

On February 28, 2022 Raymond’s home of 52 years burned to the ground due to faulty wiring. ln a matter of hours, he was left with only the pajamas he wore and the socks upon his feet, leaving him with only the ashes and memories of what was once his family home.

Washington loves gardening. He has provided fresh vegetables such as peas, onions, turnips, greens, squash, cucumbers and many other vegetables for his friends, neighbors and family. At the age of 81 he still plants, picks, and delivers vegetables to his elderly neighbors.

He also provides transportation to those that have none. Taking it upon himself to take neighbors and friends to doctors appointments, grocery shopping, and other various errands they need. He has been providing these services to others since before healthcare transportation was even offered, and at 81 still provides as needed, for a few within the community going as far out as Texarkana at least once a month.

He not only services his community, he is a devoted member of Omaha Church of God in Christ, and works faithfully within his church. For the church he holds many titles: carpenter, plumber, keeper of the grounds and even the occasional supervisor.

There will be a Benefit Program held at First Baptist Family Life Center at 207 W. Allday St., Atlanta, Texas on April 16, 2022 at 7 p.m. Pastor EJ Young of the New Jerusalem Church of God in Garland, Texas will be the speaker.

For more information contact Sis. Sandra Washington at 903-244-8829 or Sis. Debra Young at 214-803- 1211.

Come one, come all and don’t forget to tell someone so than can be blessed by being a blessing.