Prayers requested for grieving members of IWS Community

Woodrow W. "Woody" Nail
Woody Nail died on Friday, Oct. 22. He was 80 years old. Our last communication with Woody was on March 31. He ended his email with this, “The Father is still the safe haven for His children (Nahum 1:7). May our Lord's blessings be upon you and your household. Woody and Rosie.” He and his beloved Rosie were married for 57 years. Woody was a faithful friend to IWS, consistently hopeful, joyful, loving and smiling. Woody could always be counted on for a positive word of encouragement, even in trying times.

Woody was a member of First Baptist Church Plant City, a retired choral teacher for Hillsborough County Public Schools, an ordained minister of music for many churches, and served several years in the Army as a trainer. Through his life-long pursuit of learning, he attended William Carey College, Jacksonville State University, New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, University of South Florida, and Robert E. Webber Institute. He earned his Doctor of Worship Studies at the age of 72. He is survived by wife of 57 years, Rosella “Rosie” S. Nail, two children, four grandchildren, two great-grandchildren and four siblings.

Gordon Edward Jensen
Gordon Jensen died on Monday, Oct. 26. He was 71 years old. Gordon and his wife Ginger and son Edward were IWS’ first on-campus audio/video technical directors, serving in the same role at the first host church of IWS, Grace Episcopal Church. Gordon worked primarily in structural steel fabrication as a Certified Welding Inspector and a quality control manager for the majority of his professional career. He was a choir member and worship leader in various communities in North and South Florida, and a long-time friend and faithful supporter of IWS. He was consistently hopeful and loving, and always ready with a story or word of advice. He could always be counted on regardless of the request. He leaves behind his wife Ginger and their son Edward (Kristen) and four grandchildren.

Randall Landis
Randall was with his father and sister on a mission trip to the Dominican Republic when he became ill and died on November 11. He was 40 years old and leaves behind a loving wife Cassandra and three children. Details of arrangements will be forthcoming from the Landis family.

He was particularly known for serving others, spreading love and hope. His family wrote, “To know Randy, was to love him and be loved by him.” He was known for his generosity and constant readiness to give assistance to others in need.

Memorial Scholarship Funds
Contributions may be made in Woody's memory to IWS through the Dr. Woodrow Wilson Nail, Jr. Scholarship Fund, and in Gordon’s memory through the Gordon Jensen Scholarship Fund. Both funds will provide financial aid for deserving students. Gifts may be made either by mail or online. Please indicate any memorial designation in the memo line of your check or in the comment box on the donation webpage.

We will miss these dear ones deeply. Let us weep with those who weep, and let us join with the families and friends of Randall, Woody, and Gordon in releasing and commending these men of God to the God of all peace and comfort:

Into your hands, O merciful Savior, we commend your servants Randy, Woody and Gordon. Acknowledge, we humbly beseech you, sheep of your own fold, lambs of your own flock, sinners of your own redeeming. Receive them into the arms of your mercy, into the blessed rest of everlasting peace, and into the glorious company of the saints in light. Amen.