Dear GDA families,

Thank you for your prayers, as everyone in the building has felt the loss of Mr. Estis.  There is great comfort in knowing that he is with the Lord.  I am proud of our students.  They have encouraged, comforted, and shown compassion to each other.

Mrs. Estis has requested your presence at the funeral.  The visitation will take place at Greenlawn East on Saturday, November 6 from 5:00 – 6:30 pm., with the funeral service starting immediately afterwards.  The funeral will be from 6:30-7:00 pm.  

A memorial service will be held at Gloria Deo Academy on Sunday, November 14 at 3 pm.  Students will have an opportunity to share their stories, Mr. Estis quotes, or just mourn with their school family.

Mrs. Estis has requested help with a newly installed fence.  The fence needs to be sealed.  Mr. Joe Miller is going to be at the Estis home (1501 S. Essex) on Sunday, November 7 at 2 pm to help meet this need.  Any family member who is available to help please contact Mr. Miller at 417-830-8593. 

Attached is a resource about how to handle a crisis.  Please reach out to the school if you need additional support.  Mrs. Jayne Hankins, the school counselor, is an excellent resource.

The next few weeks may still be difficult for your child, depending on the relationship with Mr. Estis.  Please remember that grief comes in waves and healing may take some time.  Thank you for your continued prayers.

Joy Davis