Verna Faye Arp

Verna Faye Arp of McGregor, a born-again Christian, went to be with her Lord and Savior while surrounded by her children and her sister on Saturday, December 9th in Waco. She was 97. Funeral services will be held at 10:00am on Monday, December 18th at the First Baptist Church of McGregor. Interment will follow at the McGregor Cemetery. A visitation will be from 3:00-5:00pm on Sunday, December 17th at Cole Funeral Home in McGregor.

Verna was born November 7, 1926, the daughter of James Lee and Hassie Elizabeth (Pack) Blanton. She grew up in Crawford where she attended school. Verna was the Valedictorian of the Class of 1944 and received a scholarship to Baylor University but was unable to attend. Struggles during the Great Depression molded an impressionable young lady to live a life built on inner strength, character above reproach, and faith. In 2019, at the age of 93, Baylor University presented her with the honorary “Alumni By Choice” award. This honor is awarded to individuals who did not graduate from Baylor but have a love for the university and a firm belief in Baylor’s Christian mission.

On May 25, 1946, Verna married Thomas Wayne Arp. For 52 years McGregor was their home and where they raised four children…Marilyn, Tommy, Terry, and Tracey. Verna was a true servant to her lifelong church, First Baptist of McGregor. She was extremely active in leadership roles as well as being the church secretary and treasurer for 26 years. She taught Sunday School, directed Vacation Bible School, sang in the choir, and was a member of pastoral search committees. In retirement Wayne and Verna spent quality time with their grandchildren as well as traveling with family and friends. She loved to read and to sing. Even after the age of 90, she was still driving her car to Westview Manor Nursing Home to “sing with the old folks.” Verna loved the time she spent with the ladies of the Magic Fingers Quilting Club making beautiful quilts.

Verna was firmly committed to her family. The example she set and the manner in which she lived her life were powerful influences on her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. There were no filters when it came to helping her family understand the eternal benefits of living a Christian life. She may not have realized how influential she was on her family, just by being herself. Even though her body failed, her mind never did. She was blessed with a quick wit and kept her sense of humor right up to the very end. In the face of death she was calm and courageous drawing strength from her deep and unwavering faith.

Those left to cherish her influences and pass along her life lessons are her children, Marilyn Wallace and her husband A.T., Tommy Arp and his wife Kerry, Terry Arp and his wife Darlene, and Tracey Arp and his wife Lisa. Those who call her “Grandmother” are Daron Parker, Christopher Arp, Matthew Tucker, Jody Arp, Jay Arp, Lanie Arp, Whitney Arp, Travis Arp, Gregory Arp, and Tyler Arp. She has 26 beautiful great-grandchildren, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. And, the unbreakable bond of her dear sister, Dixie Wallace. Verna loved them all unconditionally.

When Verna arrived at the banks of the River Jordan it was with Beauty and Grace. She will be dearly missed but we have great joy in the knowledge she will be rejoicing this Christmas season, and forevermore, with her parents, her husband Wayne, and her siblings; Opal Christian, Ruth Blanton, Ray Blanton, Earl Blanton, Mildred Bayes, Wilma McCutchen, and Royce Blanton.

Verna’s family wants to say a heartfelt “Thank You” to the loving and dedicated caregivers at Heartis Waco Assisted Living where she lived the last four years. We also appreciate and owe a debt of gratitude to Community Hospice. The family’s suggestion for memorials is the First Baptist Church of McGregor or the charity of your choice.