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Gerald S. Paden LUBBOCK-Gerald S. Paden, age 90, long-time Lubbock resident and life-long teacher and preacher, died on July 20, 2015. On Aug. 17, 1924, Gerald was born alongside his twin sister Geraldine to Oscar and Lona Paden in Commerce, Texas. He joined a family of older siblings Mildred, Ivan, Cline, and Harold then welcomed younger sister Patsy. The family moved to Lubbock County where he graduated from Idalou High School. During those lean dust bowl years, the family regularly competed in declamation competitions, practicing their pieces while hoeing on the farm thus paving the way, years later, to a life-time love of teaching and preaching. Gerald enlisted in the Navy in 1943 serving aboard the aircraft carrier USS Shipley Bay, CVE 85. He was honorably discharged in 1946, after which he married Bobbie Rhea Johnson. After their marriage, Gerald attended and graduated from Abilene Christian College and became a preacher for the Church of Christ in Meadow (1951 - 1953) and later in New Home (1960 - 1963). In 1953, Gerald followed his brothers Cline and Harold into overseas mission work, serving in Rome and Pisa, Italy, and planted small churches in the surrounding cities. Gerald taught himself to be an eloquent speaker of the Italian language, and with his Bible study, research, and many publications, became a sought-after lecturer in Italy and other European cities. Returning to Lubbock in 1971, Gerald joined the faculty of Sunset School of Preaching (now Sunset International Bible School), where he remained until his last days. No one who knew Gerald believes he could have done this without the love, support and encouragement of his beloved wife and co-laborer, Miss Bobbie. Along with her, he leaves behind his younger sister, Patsy Paden Whitson; his three children Joe Michael Paden and wife Lynn, Cynthia Paden Jennings and husband Mack, Ted Paden and wife Lura; grandchildren, Joshua, Scott, Lindsey, Andrew, Danny, Nick, Gabriel, and six great-grandchildren. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, July 22, 2015, at 10 a.m. at the Sunset Church of Christ, 3723 34th Street in Lubbock. His fellow faculty members at Sunset International Bible Institute will serve as honorary pallbearers. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Gerald Paden World Mission Fund at Sunset International Bible Institute. Please celebrate the life of Gerald by visiting www.combestfamilyfuneralhomes.com.
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Our sympathy to the family of this beloved teacher and child of God. His life's work will continue on through all of his writings and through those of us who had the privilege to sit in his classes and soak up the knowledge he was able to share.
Betty & Ellen Underwood & Kirk
July 27, 2015
I was very saddened to hear of Gerald's passing. He made our wedding even more special by translating it into Italian for my family. He was a special person to my parents and especially my mom with whom he always spoke Italian. I'm glad I knew him.
Nancy Murphy Bowles
July 23, 2015
So Sorry Michael & Lynn for your loss. He is not having any more pain now and the father is taking real good care of him. Just remember that he is in Gods hands now and that God is also taking care of you.
Lori King
July 21, 2015
I love you Miss Bobbie----asking the Father to grant you safe passage through this LifeStorm. Know how much I loved him and love you---I am ever grateful for the way the two of you changed my life. Spending time on my knees for you my beautiful friend!
Neva Cooper
July 21, 2015
So many precious memories. So many corny jokes! All our love till we cross over.
Ron and Linda Skorick
July 21, 2015
Mary Ann robinson
I sure hope Gerald won't be giving me a tour of heaven as wild as when we went to Rome for the first time. I didn't mind moving there when I could drive. And everyone said my driving scared them?? Gerald was wild in those little cars. I can't wait to join the "Italian group" in heaven. I miss you all.
July 21, 2015
what memories, as a 14 yr old we moved to Lubbock in l949 and attended church at Eastisde with Bro/Sis. Paden and their sons were well into the mission work and each Sunday we got an update. Bro Oscar Paden was my Bible class teacher and we share many meals at their home. Blessings on the family and know our treasures will be beautiful memories of the family. Sarah Bowers Hancock, Burnet, Tx.
July 21, 2015
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Combest Family Funeral Homes and Crematory - Lubbock2210 Broadway, Lubbock, TX 79401
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