Small, but more than effective, Edna Beltz, at 5 ft., and 100 lbs. dripping wet, has been our Director of Religious Education since 1976. If my math is correct, that's 32 years of devotion to God and the parishioners of St. Jude Church in Gun Barrel City, Texas. Edna started her journey on Jan. 24, 1930, graduated from St. Rose of Lima in Ohio, started on a nursing career, and graduated in 1951 from St. Rita's School of Nursing. Moving to Texas, she continued her education and graduated from the University of Texas in Tyler.
In 1975 her son, Michael, was critically injured in an automobile accident. Doctors and nurses did all they could, but indicated he would probably be going home to God. Edna prayed the Rosary all that night, and asked the Holy Mother for her love and intervention. After 30 days in ICU, and all hope gone, Edna gave her son Michael to the Blessed Mother. Edna promised the Blessed Mother she would work for Her for the rest of her life if Michael recovered.which he did.
Edna's promise to the Blessed Mother was foremost in her lifes journey of love, concern, and dedication. In addition to her 32 years of service at St. Jude she has also been involved as Director of Nursing at ETMC, school nurse for Mabank ISD, member and past-president of the Lions Club, and valued member of the Community Resource Center. She is also a Eucharistic Minister, Lector, and member of the choir at St. Jude.
Edna was married in 1953 and blessed with three children. Her husband went home to God in 1992.
The Dynamo continues.