Karla Buhl Lavender, minister of activities and children at Gaffney First Baptist Church, retired Aug. 31 after 37 years of service to the church.
She was honored at a special service Aug. 9 and was named Minister of Activities and Children Emerita. She was also recognized by resolutions from the South Carolina Senate and the City of Gaffney and received a special gift from the church.
“Karla faithfully served generations of children and adults in many roles with love, energy, and a unique personality loved by all,” said a news release from the church.
Lavender earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Tennessee and a master’s degree from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.
She and her husband, Dick, will continue to reside in Gaffney and be a vital part of the membership at First Baptist Church.