Waitress saves tips: gives all to missions
By Melissa Lilley
BSC Communications

Thelda Hendrick saved every tip she made waitressing at Red Bridges Barbeque Lodge in Shelby. After 38 years, a few dollars and coins here and there turned into a hefty sum for the 78-year-old grandmother.

Soon after retiring Hendrick was diagnosed with Lou Gehrig's disease or ALS, and died August 28 at age 81.

But Hendrick made sure that the work of ministries close to her heart, such as North Carolina Baptist Men (NCBM), would live on.

"When we talked about Baptist Men, tears came to her eyes," said Kathryn Hamrick, manager of the Shelby MetLife office.

Hendrick left nearly $60,000 to NCBM. "It's very humbling," said Richard Brunson, executive director-treasurer. "If she can do this, what can the rest of us be doing?"

Brunson said the money will be used to help support disaster relief efforts.

Hendrick met disaster relief volunteers in 1994 after tornadoes ripped through Cleveland County. "Thelda talked to them, listened, observed and was deeply moved," Hamrick said.

Biblical Recorder articles and Mandate video segments kept Hendrick updated on NCBM disaster relief efforts and ministry projects.

During the time Hamrick managed Hendrick's account she came to know her as a friend.

"She always had a twinkle in her eye, a joke to tell and motivational clippings she wanted us to read," Hamrick said.

Hendrick and her three sisters were born in Colorado. After her mother's death the family moved to Cleveland County with their father.

Hendrick attended Pleasant Hill Baptist Church and for many years taught children's Sunday School.

"She was an inspiration to us - a woman whose zest for life came from her overcoming faith," Hamrick said. "She left quite a legacy in our hearts."