- Name:
- Chuck Poulos
- Date:
- Wednesday July 09, 2008
Memories
In hearing the many tales and adventures the many students have had with Ethel, it makes me long for the chance to have been in one of her classes. She will be missed, but she is now resting in a better place.
- Name:
- Connie Jenkins McNary
- Date:
- Wednesday July 09, 2008
Memories
Ethel LaNier changed my direction in life! Her gentle, loving spirit showed in everything she did. She taught us all the time. Not just in the classroom. She often took, a few at a time, home with her for the weekend. She made sure we saw important things. The State Capital and the county library and the girls detention center. She loved to show us the ocean and flowers and kittens. All of life had something to teach us.
I will never forget the time she took some of us girls from the high school to the girls detention center. SHE SCARED ME STRAIGHT!!!! But I sat and watched the sun come up on a Saturday morning from her kitchen and I listened to her and watched her as she spoke of the beauty all around us. And I know that she was part of that beauty. Then we would just go on. There was never a big lingering silence. We just went on with life. I talk about her frequently. My two grown sons know her well from my stories and my five beautiful grand-daughters are learning about my special teacher. She will always be in my heart. God has blessed all of us who were touched by her life. And there are many!
- Name:
- Laura Anne Swayne
- Date:
- Wednesday July 09, 2008
Memories
What can you say about a special, teacher, Sister in Christ, friend? She was always there for each one of us collectively and individually. She taught me way too many "life lessons" for me to recall. How to be a thourough student, racing to her house before midnight to turn in some last minute assignment, to teaching us good sportsmanship at playing baseball,to holding pajama parties while playing Pollyanna (how she loved to play that game!) to relaxing under her tree while we stopped for lunch after picking berries next door. She will certainly be missed by all, but we know we will see each other again some day.
- Name:
- Carol Hinds Sivley
- Date:
- Wednesday July 09, 2008
Memories
Because of Sister LaNier giving me confidence in my abilities I am a much better person today. She taught so many of us to go beyond what we thought we could do to what she knew we were capable of. I have tried to live by those teachings and given an opportunity to improve my life I will take it without worrying if I can do the job or not. I remember going on walks for PE and all the things she taught to us during those times. She was so much more than just a teacher, she was a blessing to every student she had and will be missed by everyone.
- Name:
- Janet Lanier - 2006 PCA Graduate
- Date:
- Wednesday July 09, 2008
Memories
I miss you and love you grandma. I never knew how big of a part you played in my life, in my family's life. I learned everything from you from nearly perfect English, to being a strong young woman. Words can't describe how much I love you and miss you, you will always be missed, and never forgotten. I love you
- Name:
- David Moreland (1961 PCA graduate)
- Date:
- Wednesday July 09, 2008
Memories
I want to share one memory I have of Ethel as my teacher. When I was in the 6th or 7th grade I attempted to cheat on a test by writing some notes on my desk. Ethel came by and moved my arm revealing what I had written. She looked at me and said "I never would have thought that of you", took my paper and told me to stay after class. So I stayed after class where she allowed me to take the test. I did it with no errors. She never mentioned the incident again, but as a result I never cheated on any assignment at any school I attended again.
David Moreland
- Name:
- Cindy LaNier
- Date:
- Wednesday July 09, 2008
Memories
Oh how much I loved my Grandma! Way too many memories to post here but I will talk about her as my teacher for a bit. I had always heard (from both my parents, Jim and Gloria) how hard she had been on them in English class and never thought she'd be that hard on me. I was wrong. Dead wrong. She first began teaching me in the 7th grade. I actually lived with her during that year. She told me she was harder on me than anyone else because she didn't want anyone to think she played favorites. I worked HARD for my A's! And while I lived with her I recall many nights when students would turn in their assignments at midnight in her mailbox!
Another special point to mention is that she taught both my parents, my siblings and me, and finally my own children.
And her classroom: she kept it spotless! She was always sweeping/mopping/dusting or lovingly tending all the beautiful plants and flowers all around.
What an amazing woman! I will miss her more than words can say....
- Name:
- Randy Hartley
- Date:
- Wednesday July 09, 2008
Memories
Hello, Chuck, This is Randy Hartley. I live in Salem, Oregon now, as do my parents John and Doris and my sister Renee. I just found out about your Mom's passing from Charnell Davis.
Ethel was one of the good ones - that is for sure. As my favorite English teacher, she has always continued to have such a huge impact on my life. She introduced me to Shakespeare and Dickens and so many other great icons of literature. My children and I have a love of reading today because of Ethel's pervasive influence. When I was in high school, she heartily encouraged me to consider being an English teacher. I have home schooled my own children, and the things Ethel taught me were definitely a major factor in how I tutored my kids. I have formidable writing and language skills today because "Sister Lanier" was such an effective teacher. I will always be grateful that God so graciously gave her as a gift to PCA for so many wonderful years.
Charnell Davis told me that a PCA comment book is being put together for the memorial service on July 19. Please post what I wrote above. I might send more as I have a chance to think about it, but that will get you started.
May the Lord comfort you, Jim and your families as you simultaneously grieve about your loss and rejoice for your mother's long and fruitful life.
Randy Hartley
- Name:
- Freddie Sarra (Great Grandson-in-Law)
- Date:
- Wednesday July 09, 2008
Memories
I never had the pleasure of having Ethel as a teacher, but I had the extreme pleasure of having her as a Great Grandmother-In-Law. Ethel had a way of making you feel special. She never forgot a thing. No matter what you had going on in your life, somehow Ethel was tuned in, and would ask you about it as soon as she saw you. I would wonder how this amazing woman would remember things about me when she had so many people in her life to care about, but that was Ethel. She was amazing! We miss you Grandma Ethel. We Love You.
- Name:
- Kathleen Douglas (PCA graduate 1953)
- Date:
- Wednesday July 09, 2008
Memories
It is not a surprise to anyone when I say that the successful academic life I enjoyed after PCA (Santa Rosa Junior College and University of California, Berkeley) was due largely to critical reading and writing skills that I developed in Ethel LaNier’s English classes.
More than that, however, it was her ability to see some good trait in even the most troublesome student that impressed me so much that I resolved to try to develop that ability in my personal as well as professional life as a teacher.
The inspirational example she provided helped me become a better person.
Thank you, Sister LaNier!
- Name:
- Mildred (former PCA Music teacher) and Jerry, Hodges
- Date:
- Wednesday July 09, 2008
Memories
Dear Chuck and family,
I am sorry we cannot be at your mother's funeral on Saturday, as we have other previous commitments. Our thanks to Charnell for calling to inform us of her passing; we would enjoy being with all you friends from years past. Please convey our love to all.
We are Praising the Lord for such a wonderful companion on the Road, precious daughter of His, and for such a long life of service in His Kingdom. Many generations of young people will "rise up and call her blessed" for the impact she had on their lives.
I recall days of teaching music at P.C.A. and the loving support and friendship from Ethel. She was one with a ready smile and word of encouragement. She will always live in our memory and be an example to follow.
God bless you all as you celebrate a life well lived.
Mildred & Jerry Hodges
- Name:
- Carol (Somerville) Poynor
- Date:
- Wednesday July 09, 2008
Memories
Ethel LaNier was a driving influence at PCA for many, many years. She was the best teacher I ever had, because she knew what she was talking about, and she could easily communicate with us rowdy teenagers in a way that made us want to learn from her.
I lived with her and "the boys" (Jimmy and Chuck) for a year, and her calm demeanor and gentle ways steered me in the right direction without fail. I miss hearing her "well, land sakes!" and seeing that truly wonderful smile. She was one solid bundle of God's love.
- Name:
- Jerry Rushford
- Date:
- Thursday July 10, 2008
Memories
Ethel LaNier was not only a devout Christian throughout her long life of service in the Kingdom of God, but she "finished strong." She kept serving in so many different ways long past time when she could have retired. She was a legendary teacher at Pacific Christian Academy, and she will always be remembered as a great servant of the cause of Christ. She was beloved at Pepperdine University by those who knew her and by those who were taught by her. We thank God for her good life.
- Name:
- Scott Douglas - PCA class of 1979
- Date:
- Friday July 11, 2008
Memories
Poetry Contests, Theatrical Events, Literary Programs, Journalism, the Post, the Year Book, Reading the Classics, Book Reports, Research Papers, Creative Writing, Grammar, Vocabulary, History, Spelling, …, oh how much I learned from “Sister LaNier”. Well, she did fail to teach me to spell. I marvel when I realize that I was the third generation of students from my family to have come under her tutelage and she continued to teach a generation of students beyond me. Such a prolific, loving person I think I shall never again come to know. She gave me my love of poetry and theater which has so added so much to my life. For all this, I think my fondest memory of Ethel had nothing to do with education. It was a summer afternoon, late but before dinner. I would have been 15 or 16 years old. I walked, as I sometimes did, from our home on Chestnut Lane, the couple of miles to the LaNier house for a visit although I no doubt had practiced some, to me more seemly, now forgotten motive for the trip. I arrived to the sound of a lawnmower running in the back yard. The front lawn had clearly been recently mowed. Walking around the house I found that all of the back “lawn”, and it was sizable, had been mowed as well together with an nearly equally large portion of the back garden area witch at the time was grown up with thick weeds, foxtails and the like. Ethel was driving the old push mower and looked as though her intent was to mow all the way down the hill and into the town beyond. As I drew near she became aware of my presence, looked at me with an expression of mild panic and said, “Oh Scott, I can’t make it stop”. The cable attaching the mower control had broken and she had determined her only option was to run the thing till it ran out of gas. You will long be remembered for so many things Ethel LaNier!
- Name:
- Rick O'Brien
- Date:
- Friday July 11, 2008
Memories
I have alot of memories of Sister Lanier and my most memorable was when I first started PCA. I came to PCA from a public school and it was the middle of the semester. Long story short my first report card reflected my tremendous knowledge. She gave me "I"s for Incomplete. Can you imagine what that did to me? Well it did good!! She kept me after class until I caught up to the rest of the class & grades! God really did bless me with Sister Lanier. There will be no one ever cast from the same mold as Sister Lanier. Till we meet on the other side. All my best to the families of Sister Lanier.
- Name:
- Sharol & Lauren Helton (Biggers)
- Date:
- Saturday July 12, 2008
Memories
Ethel Lanier will always remain in the hearts of her students, we privileged to be in her classes. I believe she was one of the Lords greatest workers for P.C.A.
- Name:
- Robert & Connie Waite (Biggers)
- Date:
- Saturday July 12, 2008
Memories
I was one of the fortunate teachers at P.C.A. that got to stay with Ethel Lanier at her home during the school year 1965-1966. During this time I met and married Connie Biggers. Ethel opened her home and heart to many students and teachers she will be missed but also remembered for the wonderful Christian example she set for all of us. May God Bless and comfort all of her family!
- Name:
- Jolly W. Christian
- Date:
- Sunday July 13, 2008
Memories
Ethel LaNier, WOW! As I remember her, the first thought that comes to mind is as the reflection of the familiar scripture that is found in John 21:25. John stated there, "That Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written."
I wonder about all of the wonderful things that Ethel accomplished during her 99+ years here on earth, and if they were written down, would there be room enough on the Internet to hold them all? We would all be amazed, I am sure, if we knew each and every kind deed that she did.
Ethel was one of the greatest servants that I have ever met. It wasn't just service, rather 100% Unselfish Service! She was one who would rather do without and give of herself and her means to those in need. She loved people no matter who they were or what condition they were in.
Ethel always looked for and commented on the good in others. She had the ability and the insight to see the good side of a human life.
I feel truly blessed for having had Ethel as a mentor, a teacher, an excellent Christ-Like example, a friend, and a sister in Christ. I couldn't have ask for more. My memories of her will last forever. We love you, Ethel, and miss you dearly and anxiously await that time when we will meet again!
- Name:
- Jeremy Brickman
- Date:
- Tuesday July 15, 2008
Memories
Ethel LaNier: The woman who taught me the inverted pyramid. That's journalism lingo for putting the most important facts first, even if it sounds like turning something upside down. The most important fact about her is she turned a thing or two on its head. Like having to retire at 65. Or needing a walker in your 70's. Or going senile in your 80's.
Ethel was a gracious, petite lady, but she was a giant. Getting a class of high schoolers to write a coherent thought--or even think of one--is not a light hobby, not even for her colleagues half her age, and AARP would not suggest it as relaxing volunteer work for the elderly.
I had the great pleasure of having this wonderful lady as my journalism teacher when she was in her mid 80's. I joined Mrs. LaNier’s class already knowing how to write, and only needed someone to approve and print my masterpieces. But she kept pointing out that I didn't kick off my articles with the biggest facts, working my way down to lesser details like a pro would. Some editors are impossible to please! Actually, she showed that I had to work on my priorities.
Truthfully, that editor was not one of those dreaded tyrants who tore down what others wrote up. She didn't even call herself the editor. She called me the editor! In spite of a small teen team running (or maybe ruining) the PCA Post, she insisted on being just an advisor. (Or was it adviser? We couldn't decide!) Frightening as it may seem, Mrs. LaNier trusted her students to somehow steer the Post in the right direction. And we barely knew how to drive! Still, she counted on us to tell the story of our school.
But it wasn't just news stories she cared about. Our own stories mattered, too--as though, in some weird way, we were all her great-grandchildren. (Well, my classmate, Gina, literally was. Half the school was somehow related!) Even when I graduated and moved on to SRJC and later USC, every once in a while I found I had to make a pilgrimage back to PCA, paying homage to the aged editor who said she wasn't.
Every time I visited, Ethel asked for the inside scoop of how my life was playing out. She was much more comfortable interviewing than being interviewed. Each of us enjoyed our brief stardom of being the featured "Kampus Kid" on some issue even if the audience was only classmates and parents, but Mrs. LaNier humbly shunned the spotlight. On of her students would have a brilliant flash of insight and ask if anyone had ever interviewed her, but each time she insisted she had been written up plenty of times already.
Quiet, petite, and unassuming, her simple appearance concealed how remarkable she was. At her age, even doing the ordinary was extraordinary, but she did much more. She was a writer, a teacher, a guide, a disciple, a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. And an advisor. (Really. An editor). Her heart kept ticking longer than a grandfather clock could. She had a source of life that never seemed to run out. Although she has gone on to meet her Lord, she left something behind: her quiet impact. Her unique century.
- Name:
- Elsie Pearl Davis - 1931 or '32 (I think)
- Date:
- Wednesday July 16, 2008
Memories
The memory escapes me as to the very first time I met my dear friend, Ethel LaNier, but I do remember it must have been not too long after she and the boys arrived. I remember their first summer here, I didn’t work the apples, but Ethel did, so I kept her boys – and our boys were inseperable.
Ethel so enjoyed the board game, “Pollyanna: The Glad Game.” And well, I guess it could be the secret to her optimism, positive attitude, and ability to look at things the way she did. Her sense of being glad, and having a, “glad-ness,” regarding all things was quite an example to so many.
And after all those years of teaching, the only necks I know her to wring by hand were those two chickens – hens as I remember, because she had company that had already arrived, and she wanted to prepare a meal. By hand she wrung their necks, just like my dad did.
I remember lots of trips to the coast - so many fun times we shared together. We slept out, kind of like camped out, on the roof of her house. That was fun – that was before the house was built the way it is today. I remember meeting her parents, and dinners, and conversations, and feeling comfort in friendship.
My friendship with, Ethel, has been my longest adult friendship, and it has just been such a pleasure – a privilege really. I just have so many wonderful memories of Ethel. We spent a lot of time together over the 60 plus years I have called her, "friend."
I am “glad” we are friends!
- Name:
- Stephen D. Davis
- Date:
- Thursday July 17, 2008
Memories
As a former student at Pacific Christian Academy, I have many fond memories of Ethel LaNier. She is truly one of the most inspirational teachers I have known. She taught much more than the content of textbooks. She instilled a lifelong love for learning and a zest for servant hood that she modeled through her own life of dedication for her students, family, and friends. She was a persistent, vibrant example of Christian charity. Her mentorship of her many students will continue to propagate good works and deeds for many years to come. Her inspiration lives on, especially among students who chose to follow her profession of teaching. I am one of them.
Stephen D. Davis
- Name:
- Mike Johnston
- Date:
- Thursday July 17, 2008
Memories
When it comes to my memories of Sister LaNier, I hardly know where to begin. I knew her long before I was old enough to go to school. I was actually her next door neighbor there in Graton during the first ten years of my life (1950 – 1960). I remember hanging out over at her house, watching her work in her big garden, drawing pastel pictures with her and my sister Sandy, and playing board games in her living room. Her husband died before I was born, but I still remember what he looked like, from a photo I saw at her house when I was very young. Also I remember the times she took Sandy and me on long walks down paths through the woods and orchards around the area. Of course, like so many others, I also remember her English classes at PCA and all I learned there. (I’m an editor now by profession). There were plenty of vocabulary words, diagrammed sentences on the blackboard, little red marks all over my homework papers, etc. But beyond that I can remember so many specific incidents and experiences and details about her classes, and the lessons we learned along the way about respect and fair play and truth-telling, and the stories (by Mark Twain and others) that she read out loud to us, and the items she had us memorize. Forty-five years or so after the fact I can still remember verbatim Psalm 1 (“Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly . . .”), Proverbs 3 (“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart, and lean not unto thine own understanding . . .”), the last part of Thanatopsis by William Cullen Bryant, and other things she had us commit to memory. The theme of all these memory assignments seems to have been: getting on the right path and staying there, or becoming and being what God wants us to be. I haven’t always lived up to those principles very well myself. But I do feel that if I have managed to pass any of those values along to my son and grandchildren, it’s partly a result of what I learned decades ago from the words and deeds of Sister LaNier.
- Name:
- The Stine Family
- Date:
- Thursday July 17, 2008
Memories
We have always been in awe of the unmistakable light of Ethel's presence in the world.
She once paid Alan and I the highest compliment we have ever received, and I will never forget the sincerity in her voice. Humility prevents us from sharing the compliment; however, we will say that those kind words from Ethel made an unforgettable impression on our family throughout the years.
Our thoughts and prayers are with her family who will miss her greatly; however, her light is now where it ultimately belongs.
While we are unable to attend her memorial, we are rejoicing that she has been released into the heavenly sunshine of our Lord's presence.
Our love in Christ,
The Stine Family
- Name:
- Carla Peterson, PCA Teacher, 1991-Current
- Date:
- Friday July 18, 2008
Memories
Proverbs 31 woman - Pacific Christian Academy - Unselfish Service - Humble Servant. Ten small words which describe a "giant" named Ethel LaNier.
I came to PCA in the fall of 1991 as a first year teacher. I had just finished student teaching in the spring and was not aware of what I was in for with a sweet, energetic class of 4th - 6th graders! I appreciated and valued Ethel's encouragement and support during my first years of teaching. As my class size grew and I acquired her classroom, she would come and check "her" classroom from time to time. I'm afraid with all my classroom animals and activities going on I wasn't able to keep the room as neat and orderly as she had. Even so, I know she supported my teaching of agriculture and (hopefully) forgave "her" room's appearance. I still think of Room 6 as Ethel's room, with me having sub-let rights. Ethel was an inspiration to me, getting students to perform at impressive levels and having students find enjoyment in their achievements. How she was ever able to teach, organize school activities, and cook lunch a few days a week for her fellow teachers is beyond me. Her weekend activities, flower arranging at the church and her Sunday dinners (oh, what an honor to be invited to dinner after church!), were huge undertakings that expressed her love for others. Ethel was indeed a special, unique woman and I feel blessed to have had her in my life.
- Name:
- Gloria Davis, LaNier, Pires
- Date:
- Friday July 18, 2008
Memories
ETHEL, my teacher, friend, and most important of all, my mother-in-law.
I have always admired and loved her. She moved here when I was in the
second grade at PCA. Of course her boys (especially Jim) caught my eyes
right away. During high school years when I was dating Jim, she always
kept an eye on me, I believe making sure I was doing the right thing. When
her son went to college and would write me every day she would ask to read
the letters, saying she only received a letter once a week (of course I didn’t
share). I admired her so much for all she could accomplish! Besides teaching,
tending a large vegetable garden, lawns, flowers (which she loved), sewing,
painting her house, canning fruits and vegetables, making jelly, working in the
fruit, she would still have time to have folks over for dinner! She made it all
seem so easy. I have tried all of these and now know how much work is
involved. She was a great mother-in-law to me! She loved all of my children
and couldn’t wait to take them to Missouri to show off to her dad, sisters,
and family there. My children knew they were special to her and she loved
them. She taught them so much by telling them stories (she made up), playing
games, reading from the Bible and learning about God, and the right way to live.
She lost her husband, Sherman, so young but would talk and share her memories
like it was yesterday. She compared him to everyone she met (no one could
compare). I will be excited to meet him some day! She loved him so!
She taught me how to can vegetables and fruit and also make jelly. I treasure
all these memories. She always was thinking of others, those that were sick
or maybe just lonely. She would take food or anything else she thought was
needed to them. Most people never knew she did all these things, she didn’t
do it for recognition. She cared! I will always love her. She’ll be in my
heart forever. First Corinthians 13 describes her well!
- Name:
- Tania Cox Crane
- Date:
- Friday July 18, 2008
Memories
Sister Lanier was one of two teachers that stand out as having a life long impact on my life. She taught me well and I use what I learned every day in my professional life as well as my private life. She was never condemning and chastised with that sense of humor that took the 'bite' out of the scolding. I saw Sister Lanier about ten years ago after I'd been out of school for 25 years and she remembered me on sight. I felt as special as she made me feel when I was in high school! Obviously a Godly woman throughout her life she was a shining example to all.
- Name:
- Ted Arnold
- Date:
- Friday July 18, 2008
Memories
Thoughts on Mrs. Ethel LaNier;
I remember writing stories for the PCA Post, and we would take what we wrote to Ethel's desk, she would go over it and take out 'the dead wood', and give us better words, to use, more active verbs to make our stories come to life. My sentences were always clearer and just plain better after those desk visits. We would undertake 3 act plays and practice after school, she would take the rag tag bunch we were and make us into an enjoyable play for others to see-miraculous! Sunday dinners at her house with a house full of folks. The most wonderful fare you have ever tasted-'oh its nothing' said Ethel. I think i liked Ethel so much because i knew she cared for me, as a person, an individual in her world that she loved, not because she said it, but because she showed it with every lesson she taught, every passage of Shakespeare she interpreted for us, and every sentence she diagramed with us. That's why she is and always will be my favorite teacher.
Health Insurance & Financial Advisor
Ted Arnold
Houston, Texas
- Name:
- Sue Moreland
- Date:
- Friday July 18, 2008
Memories
What a wonderful person your mother was. Several months ago I wrote a story that
was inspired by your mother's life. I didn't know enough facts so I changed
names, but the essence of the story was who your mom was to me. So I am sending
it to you and hope you see your mother in it too.
Sue Moreland
“What am I to do?”, Ethel said out loud, as she sat in her rocker and stared at
her dead husband’s picture. Then she wrote in her Bible: “January 16,1947,
Sherman Lander, age 40 years, died from pneumonia.”
“God”, she called out. “ Be with me. Help me see how I am going to raise my two
boys without their dad.”
They were both school teachers and rented a small house just outside of
Hannibal, Missouri. Sherman taught History and she taught English at the High
school in Hannibal. She loved everything about their life together. And it
seemed ideal to raise her two boys in the home town of Samuel Clemens.
But suddenly their wonderful life was gone and she had no idea how she would
raise 9 year old, James and 7 year old Charles by herself. Money had been sparse
with Sherman alive and with only her small income she wondered how she would
manage. “God”, she muttered, “You are all I have. I put my trust in you. You are
now the only father for my boys. I will try to teach them your ways. Please be
close beside me and guide me in you path. Show me your plan for us.”
About a month after Sherman’s death. Ethel received a card from a friend she had
met while she was a student at Harding Christian College. In it he wrote: “Dear
Ethel, Please except our prayers and sympathies in your loss. Your trust in God
will see you through and give you strength for each day.
As you know I am working at a small Christian school here in Graton, California.
It is located in the northern part of the state. And in a very close community
of Christians. We would consider it an answer to prayer if you would consider
coming here to teach English for us. The pay would be poor, but the benefits
rich.
If there is any way you would consider moving here, I will give you a little
piece of land and the community will come together and build a house for you and
your boys. It won’t be fancy but it will be adequate. You will love our little
town and everyone will welcome you and give you all the support you ever need.
Please consider this offer and let us know what you decide.”
She knew almost instantly that this was God’s plan for her and it did not take
her long to write back that she was coming. She knew in her heart that it was
God’s leading.
That was 67 year ago. And today she sits in her old rocking chair at the age of
98, while a room full of 250 people sing “Happy Birthday” and celebrate her
life.
She taught at that little Christian School until she was 85 years old, teaching
three generations of children. She taught more than English, she also taught
what trusting God can do.
She still lives in that house the community built her. She always considered it
God’s house, loaned to her and often had students stay with her. And there was
always a dinner party.
Her boys grew up surrounded by the love of all the community. They never had a
lot of money , but they were rich in the things that mattered.
At the end of her birthday celebration she retold the story of her coming to
Graton and ended with her usual statement. “God is faithful”, she said, “You be
faithful to him in return.”
- Name:
- Gina (Pearson) Sarra
- Date:
- Friday July 18, 2008
Memories
My great grandma Ethel was a very unselfish and giving person. I remember spending the night with her around the age of 7 and 9-we stayed up late in the evening baking cookies. The next morning we would drive to the local convalescent home and visit with each person handing out the cookies we baked. Reflecting back on that memory several years ago I realized that she was older than many of the elderly folks she was serving. I am in awe of my Grandma-she is larger than life. I can't wait to see her again one day.
- Name:
- connie (Davia) Aimonetti
- Date:
- Saturday July 19, 2008
Memories
Ethle was always in my life. She was a grandmoher ,teacher and friend. She did not judge people if they believed differently than her. She accepted that we all have a right to our own thoughts. I remember spending the nights at her house finding marble treasures in her attic, playing pollyanna(I still love that game)and hearing her tell stories. As a teacher she challenged me to be better. I remember her telling me not to sing-song my poems,diagraming hundreds of sentences on the board, and listening to her read stories. She loved the ocean and she would take us there if we were sick she said we needed to go that the ocean air would cure us. My friends and I would sit on P.C.A'S campus and watch her tear out of there at lunch in her red nova ( the red flame). Ethel shared herself with all of us around her. She was my grandma Elsie's best friend. I remember her bringing fresh carrot juice when she wasn't feeling well. As I write I realize there are so many memories of my life that she is a part of. She was a rock in the community. I am so thankful that I got to share her 99th birthday and that I will see her again. I send my deepest sympathy to family who had some long days at the end. She will be missed.
- Name:
- Kay (Davis) Idol
- Date:
- Saturday July 19, 2008
Memories
I was so sad to hear about the death of Sis. Lanier. Whenever I thought of my
favorite teacher at PCA, it was always her. She was such a good example and
teacher for her students. She was helpful, made learning fun, and was always
concerned about her students. For those of us who were lucky enough to have
had her for a friend and teacher for 4 or 5 years, we will not forget her but
will always remember her love, kindness and example.
- Name:
- ANONYMOUS, BUT APPRECIATIVE
- Date:
- Saturday July 19, 2008
Memories
"THE GIFT"-A MEMORY OF MRS. LANIER
It was the last, short, day of school before Christmas break. As I played on the playgrounds after early dismissal, waiting to go home, Mrs. LaNier approached me and hand-delivered a wrapped gift. I was still in grade school and didn't really know Mrs. LaNier, "teacher to the big kids". But, she knew me, and that not much of a Christmas lie ahead for me. Inside the box, was a self-propelled airplane-just what a ten year-old boy dreams of. It made my spirit soar! Over that Christmas break, I flew the wings off that airplane!
On July 3rd, 2008, Mrs. LaNier received her much deserved wings. She was a giver, not a taker, and a gift to all who knew her. She was an inspirational teacher, both in a classroom setting, and far outside the walls of Room #6. I don't know where PCA's motto, "Unselfish Service", originated, but Mrs. LaNier truly exemplified it. She was a true class act!
- Name:
- Kelly Sandstrom (formerly Johnston) PCA Class 1981
- Date:
- Sunday July 20, 2008
Memories
Sister LaNier was a major influence during my 11 years at PCA -so many of things I learned from her continue to influence my life today. It was in her journalism class that I first learned to be fascinated by advertising (later my major at Pepperdine); to the love of performance and high standards I learned in from her in drama and poetry; to the humility of yearly readings of my brother (Mike Johnston's) report on his then 2 year old sister. Ethel taught me to reach, to stretch, to believe in what was possible and never to settle for what was easy. It is truly a statement to her legacy, that she taught not only my sister and brother who were 17 years older than I - but later than she taught my beautiful daughter Lynndi. Ethel has been, and will continue to make a huge difference in the lives of our family. She models what is possible by one life well lived.
- Name:
- Quinnell (Piersall) Trujillo
- Date:
- Tuesday July 22, 2008
Memories
In September of 1977 I was a 14 year old girl from Lucerne, California. My mother had enrolled me as a student at Pacific Christian Academy during my stay at Mendocino Bible Camp earlier that summer.
Since we lived some two hours away, my mother agreed to ‘board’ me with a family here in Graton.
Six weeks after I entered my freshman year, my host family decided to move. I had no other place to go and my mother and I thought for sure I would have to move back home and attend the local public high school.
One day after English class, Mrs. La Nier approached me and asked me if I had found another place to live so I could remain in school. I told her no and that it looked like I was going to have to move back home.
She looked at me and said, ‘Nonsense! You can come and stay with me!’
Mrs. La Nier and my mother made the arrangements and on an autumn rainy night, I was dropped off with my belongings and a bad head cold at her door step.
She pulled me inside and as sick as I was, I could still detect the healing aroma of her home made lasagna, home made peanut butter cookies, plus a roaring fire in the fireplace.
She sat me down in her favorite chair with a T.V. tray loaded with her absolutely appetizing meal and the rest, as they say, is history.
When I moved in with her I had no self-confidence. I had been bullied for years at my previous school, and was also painfully shy.
I had no idea what a difference my high school English teacher would make in my life.
For two blissful school years, I lived with Mrs. La Nier.
She chose the poem I read in front of the whole school for the annual poetry contest. I was scared to death. I had never spoken in front of a crowd before, let alone stand before my peers.
I won first place.
Later that year she encouraged me to take a part in the school play. I won best supporting actress.
I began to find myself during that first year with Mrs. La Nier.
I discovered that I enjoyed creative writing. She chose me to be feature editor of The P.C.A. Post. For the first time ever, words that I wrote were published.
We would sit by the fire and I would help her correct papers and we would talk. She would tell me stories of when she was a young girl; about her family.
During the summer, Mrs. La Nier would tutor some of my classmates. Their assignment? Writing a letter to a friend. At my home in Lucerne, I would get letters telling me that ‘Mrs. La Nier is making me write this to you.’
When I turned sixteen and needed an automatic car in which to take my driving test, I asked to borrow Mrs. La Nier’s 1970 red Chevy Nova. She agreed and we went for a little ride in her car with me at the wheel, Mrs. La Nier beside me and my mother in the back seat.
I drove down Graton Road way too fast and headed towards Occidental. By the time we arrived back at Mill Station Road, I looked in the rear-view mirror to see my mother’s ghost-white face and dinner platter sized eyes.
I looked over at Mrs. La Nier, who calmly looked back at me and said, ‘Not too bad, but you might want to slow it down a little.’
When I lived with Mrs. La Nier, she was known as ‘The Flying E,’ and ‘Lead Foot La Nier.’
Mrs. La Nier also had a huge, loveable, black Labrador named ‘Duchess.’
Duchess loved going for rides in the car. So much so that when I first moved in and we were headed towards the car to go into town for groceries, Mrs. La Nier explained,
’We have to RUN to the car to beat Duchess because as soon as she hears the car keys, she starts to run towards the car. And once she positions herself between you and the car, well…..she always wins.’ I thought Mrs. La Nier was kidding me.
She wasn’t. Sure enough, Duchess had heard us going towards the car and she began to lumber towards us. Mrs. La Nier yelled, ‘RUN!’
Mrs. La Nier got to her side of the car and had opened the door. Duchess seemed to KNOW I was going to be slower. She pointed towards me in a fast gallop and as soon as I opened my door, Duchess became air born, landing in front of me long enough to swing her body sideways, knock me down, and propel herself into the back of the car.
When I got onto my feet, Duchess was panting hard BUT sitting down in the back seat, happy as a clam. Mrs. La Nier looked at me and said, ‘I told you.’
I also remember being told on Saturday evenings that after church the next day I could invite a friend or two over for lunch.
I have very fond memories of having such friends as Tracy or Lisa Christian, Debbie Williams, or Kelli Johnston over as my lunch guests.
We would eat in Mrs. La Nier’s dining room with her other guests, help clear the table, then us girls would go out side and just ‘be.‘
Mrs. La Nier would also host the play rehearsal dinners at her home. Again the menu would include the home made lasagna and peanut butter cookies. There would be at least twenty teenagers in her dining room, laughing and sharing.
In 1979 my mother and step-father were able to permanently move to Sonoma County and it was with much regret that I left Mrs. La Nier’s home. So many wonderful things happened to me while I was in her care. I grew emotionally and spiritually.
Mrs. La Nier loved her family. She loved her friends. She loved her students. Words will never express how blessed I am to this day that she was in my life. I will miss her profoundly and I surely look forward to the day I am reunited with her in Heaven.
- Name:
- Norris Shelton (former minister, Graton church of Christ and PCA Bible teacher)
- Date:
- Wednesday July 23, 2008
Memories
Chuck and Jim, Brethren & Friends,
Memories of the Sheltons' blessed nine Graton years are stored with the richness of Ethel LaNier. In the mind's eye I still see her plainly — making popcorn in the PCA kitchen, past eighty but gardening, and serving dinner after Sunday Service to a full house. Amazing!
Keeness of mind, knowledge and experience made her useful into late years, but most of all the beauty of Christ was within and without. My vision is still alive with a countenance chiseled to Godliness by service to Christ, spared hardness by Faith's calm spirit, made pure by kindness and gentleness.
What is the sum of her life, her own self-detemined eulogy? "She is a woman of God"
I shall appreciate sharing life with Ethel in the enduring age to come.
Brotherly, in love and respect to the LaNier family.
Norris L. Shelton
- Name:
- Judy Shelton (former PCA teacher)
- Date:
- Wednesday July 23, 2008
Memories
Dear friends,
The older I get the more important it seems that we leave this life having made a difference. Hopefully we have made it a better place — perhaps a taste of heaven's promise. Your Mom did that. Her influence stretches across time and distance. Our hearts & thoughts are with you all.
Love, Judy
- Name:
- The Jonathan Green Family of San Diego, CA
- Date:
- Wednesday July 23, 2008
Memories
We lovingly make this donation [to Pacific Christian Academy] to honor Great Aunt Ethel, sister of Grandma Ruby. Knowing the sisters are united again doing more good works in His name gives us all peace. In memory of Ethel Lanier.
The Jonathan Green Family
- Name:
- Mr. & Mrs. Ernest J. Coburn
- Date:
- Wednesday July 23, 2008
Memories
In memory of Ethel LaNier One of God's truly great "Unselfish Servants" now gone Home "...her works do follow..."
- Name:
- The Jonathan Green Family of San Diego, CA
- Date:
- Wednesday July 23, 2008
Memories
We lovingly make this donation [to Pacific Christian Academy] to honor Great Aunt Ethel, sister of Grandma Ruby. Knowing the sisters are united again doing more good works in His name gives us all peace. In memory of Ethel Lanier.
The Jonathan Green Family
- Name:
- "IN MEMORY OF ETHEL LANIER" from Scott and Kathy (Rogers) Douglas
- Date:
- Wednesday July 23, 2008
Memories
GOD UNDERSTOOD OUR THIRST FOR KNOWLEDGE, AND OUR NEED TO BE LED BY SOMEONE WISER SOMEONE WITH A HEART OF COMPASSION, OF ENCOURAGEMENT, AND PATIENCE, SOMEONE WHO WOULD ACCEPT THE CHALLENGE REGARDLESS OF THE DIFFICULTY, SOMEONE WHO COULD SEE POTENTIAL AND BELIEVE IN THE BEST IN OTHERS — SO HE SENT ETHEL LANIER TO PCA
- Name:
- Stan and Marcie Bethel
- Date:
- Wednesday July 23, 2008
Memories
She is at peace, Isaiah 57:2, but she will be greatly missed & we will be looking for ward to seeing her again. Love & prayers, Marcie & Stan Bethel
- Name:
- John and Ann Bessire (John, former minister, Graton church of Christ & Principal, PCA)
- Date:
- Wednesday July 23, 2008
Memories
As a mother, teacher and friend, We believe that all who knew Ethel respected her as a fine Christian friend. Love in Christ, John and Ann
- Name:
- Lois (Coburn) Berry (former student of Ethel's at PCA)
- Date:
- Wednesday July 23, 2008
Memories
Just wanted to let you know what a special person your mother was and the tremendous influence she had on my life. Growing up I wanted to be like her. My love & prayers for all of you. Lois (Coburn) Berry
- Name:
- Cheryl (Christian) Kindle (former PCA student, former PCA Secretary)
- Date:
- Wednesday July 23, 2008
Memories
Sister LaNier was a gifted teacher. Her life and dedication to PCA and her students will live on in each of our hearts. Her ability to capture the life of a character from novels that she read to me as a student will be with me for a lifetime. We were all blessed to have known a wonderful Christian woman who devoted her life to Christ and set an example for all of us to follow. Sister LaNier reminded me of my beloved grandmother, Vashti Christian who was of a generation gone, but not forgotten. May God be with each of you as you mourn the loss of your loved one. Sincerely, Cheryl Kindle
- Name:
- Lester & Evelyn (Coburn) Herring
- Date:
- Wednesday July 23, 2008
Memories
Ethel was a dear lady loved by all. She will be missed very much. Her life of Christian service will always be an example to those to follow after. With love, Evelyn & Lester Herring
- Name:
- Lucy (Moreland) Powell (PCA Class of 1953)
- Date:
- Wednesday July 23, 2008
Memories
Dear Jim, Chuck and all Family, The fact that Ethel has gone home to be with the Lord and with your dad is a joy for her even though it is a sadness for you. She blessed everyone who knew her. I am personally thankful for all she taught me academically and even more thankful for all she taught by example. My memory of Ethel began when she first came to Graton to teach at PCA. From the very first day as she Jim and Chuck were looking at the PCA campus & a small group of us girls met them she gave us the feeling we really mattered. She wasn't too busy to really listen. This quality was something I really treasured because my own mother's illness rarely allowed her to listen to us. Ethel taught us to use words carefully and how to construct sentences for maximum impact. Writing soon became more than just an exercise, a chore or requirement. It became fun. She allowed us to feel that our own thoughts, observations and opinions had value. Ethel taught us to recognize that good writing, even fiction must contain truth about human nature and life. She brought literature to life and encouraged us to see the movie version of as many of the classics as we could. That was really fun but we soon learned that Hollywood's version seldom measured up to the books they were taken from. Ethel also taught us to sew even though at that time the school's sewing equipment consisted of two very old treadle sewing machines. Her cooking class started with a country breakfast of buttermilk biscuits, ham, eggs, grits and eggshell coffee. The final for the class was a complete chicken dinner. We had to kill and clean the chicken first! I don't remember what else was on the menu. Getting past the chicken part was really hard. I had no idea how valuable being introduced to these practical skills would prove to be as I was raising my family. We students in the early 50's didn't always do everything right but Ethel would correct us in a way that always encouraged. Her positive teaching style enabled us to believe and reach for the truth she always lived that "...all things are possible." *Lucy Powell, Class of 1953
- Name:
- Pat Macbeth
- Date:
- Wednesday July 23, 2008
Memories
There is so much I could say about Ethel that I don't know where to begin. The many Sunday dinners followed by Pollyanna games...the wonderful vegetables gotten out of her garden. Mom told about the time Ethel and Sherman were "campussed" because they were caught holding hands(at Harding College). Ethel didn't just teach Literature and English, history etc., but tackled anything she felt was needed to make us a more rounded person...drawing, pastel painting, binding button holes, making covered buttons, fabric painting, to name just a few. She took us to San Francisco to see 'The Seven Wonders of the World'— on a big screen in sound going all through the theater. As long as she could, she made it to Ladies Class. It meant a lot to me to have her there. It encouraged me to keep trying my best to lead the class. I could go on and on but guess I better stop...Love, Pat
- Name:
- Sandra (Stine Dederscheck) Tallbear, Heidy Maxwell and Elden Dederscheck
- Date:
- Wednesday July 23, 2008
Memories
[Ethel] was very special & gave of herself in so many ways. She was a brilliant example of self sacrifice & Christian womanhood. As a teacher she gave to the young. As a Christian she brightened the auditorium with her garden flowers. She stayed active until just the past few years of her life taking the old people bouquets, letting the young come pick wild blackberries, etc. She taught us all more than just English. She taught us how to live to make others a little more happy and how to BE a Christian in action. I Corinthians 15:42-53. [Ethel] has taken on the imperishable & inherited the spiritual.
- Name:
- Ralph England
- Date:
- Friday July 25, 2008
Memories
I will always remember her and her fresh cream corn.
- Name:
- Elsie Mae (Coburn) Northen
- Date:
- Wednesday July 30, 2008
Memories
[Ethel] will be long remembered for her life of service to so many. She was truly a Christian lady. She was loved & respected by all of my family. 'Christian love, Elsie Coburn Northen
- Name:
- Valerie Fowler (Nashville, TN) July 25, 2008
- Date:
- Wednesday August 06, 2008
Memories
She was the best...she will always be loved and remembered. Love you Ms. LaNier. Valerie Fowler
- Name:
- Tom and Marie England (Boaz, KY) July 23, 2008
- Date:
- Wednesday August 06, 2008
Memories
We are so glad to have had this great lady in our lives. Two of our sons stayed in Ethel's home and we spent every Sunday night with her for two years. Tom and Marie England
- Name:
- Cher Hutchinson (Healdsburg, CA) July 18, 2008
- Date:
- Wednesday August 06, 2008
Memories
Both of my children attended P.C.A. back in the 80's. Sister Lanier was fantastic. She was easy to talk to and very understanding. She was always bright, fun, cheery, with something good to say always. Thank you Sister Lanier. Cher Hutchinson
- Name:
- Meredith (Dodgion) Nahm (Brentwood, CA) July 14, 2008
- Date:
- Wednesday August 06, 2008
Memories
Thirteen years after graduating high school, I still have so many fond and humorous memories of Mrs. LaNier. Yelling at Josh (Cargile) to stop goofing off in class, and calling me by my cousin Amy (Paul)'s name instead of my own. I learned a lot from her; she was the one who steered me toward my BA in Mass Communication. I will miss her dearly but am very happy she is in a loving place. Meredith (Dodgion) Nahm
- Name:
- Judi (Brown) Ingram (Brookings, OR) July 14, 2008
- Date:
- Wednesday August 06, 2008
Memories
I attended PCA my senior year of high school, 1968-69. I had sister Lanier for my history teacher. She was very inspirational. She is one of a kind and loved by many. I have very fond memories of her. I think of her often. She will be missed. Judi (Brown) Ingram
