BfA press release
Wednesday 13th January 2010
With sorrowful hearts, we announce the passing away of Dave Yowell, a beloved member of the Bibles for America family. After an eight-year battle with cancer, his suffering ended swiftly and peacefully late Wednesday evening, January 6, 2010, and Dave went to be with the Lord surrounded by his family.
BfA’s loss is great. For the last decade, Dave oversaw all of its operations as general manager and served as Secretary on its Board of Directors. During his tenure, BfA grew from a three-person start-up operation to a mature organization offering a full range of services including distribution of free Bibles and ministry literature, comprehensive training of participating churches and distributors, and follow-up care of Bible recipients. Dave established BfA’s distribution procedures and policies, managed all of BfA’s communications, oversaw its financial budget and affairs, and participated in every pivotal decision and initiative at BfA.
Equally important was his role as shepherd, mentor, and overseer of BfA’s personnel. His open door, readiness to listen, reassuring demeanor, and unassuming manner were a source of supply, strength, and comfort to the many who passed through BfA under his caring watch over the last ten years. His devotion to the Lord’s commission, faithfulness in service, and genuine concern will be missed but not forgotten. He leaves us with a lasting pattern of how one can live, pray, interact, and shepherd others in the midst of impossible personal trial. He never let his illness weigh heavily on others, always fearful of diverting the gaze of others from being firmly fixed on his beloved Lord Jesus.
His integrity, grace, and humility were instrumental in developing steadfast relationships with numerous churches and contributors who have supported BfA over the years. He was both respected and trusted by all. Dave was our brother in Christ, our shepherd, our fellow lover of Jesus, and without a doubt, an indispensable member of the Body of Christ. We will sorely miss Dave until we are reunited in joy in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Dave is survived by his loving wife B.J., devoted children Stephen, Paul, and Rebecca, their spouses, and his loving grandchildren, Asher, Daniel, and Nikaia. Our prayers and support go out to the entire Yowell family.
The Yowell family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Bibles for America.