Jennifer Fankhauser/Kern Valley Sun

As an anonymous subject once said, volunteers receive no pay, not because they are worthless, but because they are priceless. Such is the case of 96-year-old Carol Weerts, active member of the Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church and honoree at a luncheon held at the church Thursday morning, Jan. 19.

The luncheon, organized by the Dorcas Society, recognized Weerts for her 36 years of dedicated service to the church and was an opportunity for members to wish her farewell in her upcoming move to Washington.

Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church volunteer Mrs. Webb, left, and honoree Carol Weerts, right, enjoy food and company at a luncheon held Thursday morning, Jan. 19 to honor Weerts for her 36 years of service and wish her a fond farewell in her upcoming move to Washington.

During a brief introduction, church secretary Myrtle Pierce gave a short history of Weerts’ time with the church, beginning with her transfer to the congregation in November 1975 and continuing through her held offices in the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League and the Dorcas Society.

In addition to being an active member, Weerts also harbored a strong spirit of volunteerism as she made the church’s tablecloths and organ covers, coordinated and cooked many of the church dinners, and hosted instructional sessions for cooking and baking. Pierce said, “It’s hard to see somebody go who’s been here so long, and yet we’re excited for her new adventures.”

The audience had an opportunity to share fond memories of Weerts’ time in the valley, accounts that highlighted her generosity and humor. Weerts joined in the fun, quipping with a memorable story of riding in a fire truck at a ripe old age of 96.

Following the warm recollections, Dorcas Society President Amy Pierce presented Weerts with a card signed by the congregation and a plaque of appreciation for her honorable service. Smiling, A. Pierce said, “She will be missed. We are grateful for all her service to us.”

Sharing in food and fellowship, members periodically made their way to Weerts to thank her for her time, effort, and friendship. Speaking of the event, Weerts said, “It’s wonderful. I can’t express my gratitude. I’ll really miss this church.” Holding back tears, she continued, “I’ll miss the sunshine and the mountains. But, most of all, I’ll miss the people.”

Weerts’ legacy of kindness and generosity at the church has left a pair of shoes not quite small enough to fill.