One is a classically trained pianist, the other a self-taught organist.
They have spent five decades together, helping the congregation of Westside Baptist Church in Rossville make a joyful noise unto the Lord.
Pianist June Edmondson, 77, and organist Una Atwood, 71, have accomplished a record that few church instrumentalists can claim individually, much less together. Edmondson will mark her 60th anniversary as pianist at Westside on Sept. 18. Atwood, a former piano student of Edmondson, says she has been a member of the church for 51 years and its organist for 48 of those.
Other local longterm church musicians
45 Years: Evelyn Gibbs, Brainerd Baptist Church42 Years: Judy Glass, First Presbyterian Church40 Years: Bruce Clark, First Cumberland Presbyterian Church34 Years: Jeff Scofield, Brainerd United Methodist Church
“While they are utilized throughout the service, our musicians are featured during the musical prelude that prepares us for our time of worship and during the offering, which serves as a time for reflecting on God’s provision for us,” says the Rev. Gary Moore, church pastor.