Edna Murl Bourland

Edna Murl Bourland, 87, daughter of Wesley Lawrence and Mable (Calvird) Zeiler, was born Aug. 22, 1915, in St. Clair County and departed this life March 27, 2003, at Appleton City Manor Nursing Home, Appleton City.

Murl and Forrest Bourland were united in marriage on Jan. 27, 1936, in Lowry City. To this union one son, Ronald, was born.

The Bourlands were very hard workers doing a great deal of gardening. They could often be seen selling fruit and vegetables in the city park. Murl spent many loving hours caring for her grandchildren, guiding and teaching them in her special way.

Mrs. Bourland was very faithful in her attendance to the Church of God (Holiness) in Appleton City. She taught Sunday School, led a Bible study and enjoyed singing the old Gospel songs. She was always a willing worker and enjoyed helping at church functions. Murl always had a smile and a cheerful, kind word for those she met on the street. She was never too busy or in too much of a hurry to stop to visit. She was truly a faithful servant of Christ throughout her life.

Murl was preceded in death by her parents; her son; and several brothers and sisters.

She is survived by her husband, Forrest, of the home; two grandchildren - Rick Bourland - Appleton City, and Brenda and her husband, Greg Smythers - Durham, NC; and six great-grandchildren - Brandon, Kelsey and Emily Smythers, Colby, Katie and Colton Bourland.

Services were held Sunday, March 30, at the Church of God (Holiness), Appleton City, with Rev. Bob Fenwick officiating. Musical selections, "In The Garden" and "The Crystal Foun¬tain," were provided by vocalist Chris Heiserman, accompanied by organist, Mary Ann Crowder and pianist, Patricia Ashley.

Casketbearers were Rick Bourland, Colby Bourland, Dud¬ley Heiserman, Chris Heiserman, Mark Ashley and Doug Snodgrass. Interment was in the Appleton City City Cemetery, Appleton City, under the direction of Hill and Son Funeral Home, Appleton City. Memorials may be made to the Church of God (Holiness) Appleton City.