A Legacy of Faithful Service

Dorothy and Joan Harrelson were sisters born a year apart in 1931 and 1932. Dorothy, the older sister, was the musician and socialite of the two, while Joan (pronounced Jo Ann) was quieter but with a quick wit. Through their many years at First Baptist Church, they influenced generations by their example of faithful service and living sent. After they died in 2018, the Harrelson sisters bequeathed a significant amount which was equally divided between their two loves: MSU and FBC. Through their generous gift, the church was able to start the first phase of our recent sanctuary renovation. Their jumpstart enabled FBC to complete two phases, while the third phase began in September.

Phase One included much-needed improvements to the electrical systems and a new platform area to house the expanded orchestra and choir. Phase Two saw new audio and lighting systems installed, sorely needed for our regular in-house worship and broadcast. The church was fortunate to see these systems installed just before Covid and the subsequent isolation and quarantine of many. The new audio and lighting allowed us to broadcast our services to those at home and abroad efficiently. Phase Three began on September 19, 2022, with the installation of new video and screen technology, enabling us to refine our livestream broadcast further and enhance in-house worship.

We celebrate the legacy of Dorothy and Joan through the memories of Jerry & Jaime Inmon, Sharon Applegate Nobles, Clifton Curtis, and Tom Jenkins, not just for their legacy but for their faith in Christ which they shared with so many.

Dorothy and Joan arrived in Starkville as young teens when their parents, Jesse (Pop) and Edith Harrelson, were hired to work at MSU in the Post Office and the Bakery and Dairy Bar. Jerry Inmon reminds us that not everyone had a coffeepot in their office in those days. The Bakery, with special treats prepared by mom, was the social place to be on campus. The Harrelson family moved into a white clapboard home where the Chapel of Memories now stands. The joy of living as "campus brats" stayed with the sisters as they graduated from Starkville High and MSU. They both worked at MSU after graduation for many years and rarely missed a football game. Loyal fans to the end, when at last they were unable to attend a game, Dorothy and Joan would watch on TV and ring a cowbell at home.

At the same time, they were steadfast members of FBC. Their parents set the example by sharing their lives with many students and single newcomers to Starkville. Jerry and Jamie Inmon were part of the Singles Club, headed by the effervescent Dorothy. Mr. Harrelson was also a carpenter, maintaining a reputation for having the best home workshop in town. He built many bookcases and class pulpits still in use today at FBC.

The two sisters became known as the Harrelson Girls when they welcomed the new pastor Dr. Applegate and his family, including Mrs. Sharon Applegate Nobles. She has fond memories of arriving in Starkville at the age of seven and being immediately welcomed by the Harrelson Girls. Sharon remembers that Joan chose to work with young children and did so for most of her life. On the other hand, Dot became very close to Mrs. Applegate and worked with her with intermediates in Sunday night Training Union. Many Sunday afternoons, Dot spent at the Applegate home creating an interest center and designing the opening sessions for Training Union.

Even Halloween was an opportunity for ministry. Elaborate haunted houses were created at the Oktoc Community Center, with busses running back and forth from the church parking lot. Dot designed and helped build many of the scary scenes. Young people being involved in church activities was her heart! They started the Bible Drill, which continues to this day, and worked in the Speaker's Contest, where older youth and college were challenged and encouraged in their oratory. If students placed first in the state, they would be eligible for a coveted trip to Glorieta in Arizona or Ridgecrest in North Carolina. FBC was always first place in the state because of these two ladies. They practiced EVERY Sunday afternoon at 4:00!

Dorothy and Joan hosted a supper club, a community social and musical event. Dorothy played piano quite well, continuing lessons into her eighties for fun. Her grand piano, carefully maintained over the years, now proudly serves the FBC Chapel. Music was a source of fun and a way to engage friends over many years. Dorothy and Joan loved the church, worship, and the energy and vibrancy of a congregation singing together. Until they were prohibited by health, they attended the second service and sat on the right side towards the front pews. They enjoyed it all, no matter the music, new or old, traditional or contemporary. Dorothy always had a smile and a beautiful countenance in worship, serving as an inspiration to all.

Their legacy of service, music, and generosity continues through their gift to FBC. The sanctuary renovations provide necessary upgrades that will continue to benefit the youth, college, and single adults for another generation.