Church Leader David Lanier Passes Away
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Rev. W. David Lanier |
Rev. William David Lanier, former state overseer and church leader, passed away Thursday, August 28, 2008 in Cleveland, Tenn.
Born May 17, 1931 in Avon Park, Florida, Rev. Lanier distinguished himself with a ministerial career that spanned over 60 years. He preached his first sermon at age 16 and served the denomination as evangelist, pastor in Pompano Beach, Fort Pierce, Naples and Bonita Springs, Florida, state overseer of Iowa (1976-82), Michigan (1982-86) and South Georgia (1986-88), state evangelism director of Florida (1972-76), chairman of the General Board of Education (1976-82) and chairman of the World Missions Board. He was a member of the Master’s Quartet and maintained lifelong friendships with the members. At the time of his death, he attended the North Cleveland Church of God.
Survivors include his caring wife of 55 years, Betty Lane Raney, two daughters and sons in law, Doctors Su and John Vining of Cleveland, Tenn., and Joni and Jim Pickles of Cookeville, Tenn. He took great joy in his three granddaughters, Meredith, and her husband, Jonathan, Melani Suzanne Vining and Megan, and her husband, Mario Hood. He also has a great-grandson, Dalen Davis Hood and great granddaughter, Olivia Grace Parker, all of Cleveland. In addition, he is survived by two special nieces: Carolyn Hammond and Barbara Vickery, six great nieces and 12 great-great nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Lewis and Melisia Lanier and his sister and brother-in-law: Lorenzo and Marguerite Walker.
Funeral services will be held Monday, September 1, 2008, at 1:00 p.m. at North Cleveland Church of God with Pastor Mitch Maloney, Pastor Gary Sears, Rev. Carl Richardson and Dr. John Vining officiating. Interment will follow in Mt. Olive Cemetery conducted by Rev. Marvin Johnson and Rev. Robert Cary.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Church of God World Missions.
The family will receive friends Monday from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the church.
Grissom Funeral Home has charge of funeral arrangements. Online condolences may be sent to www.grissomfh.net
