Statement from Elder Jerry Lutz on the Tragic Deaths of Elder Henry J. Fordham, III, and His Wife, Sharon

The Chesapeake Conference of Seventh-day Adventists is devastated to learn of the news that Elder Henry J. Fordham, III, president of the Allegheny East Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, and his wife, Sharon, tragically passed away last night in a house fire. Let’s join together in praying for the Fordham family and our brothers and sisters in the Allegheny East Conference as we grieve this terrible loss.

The following is a statement from Elder Jerry Lutz, president of Chesapeake Conference: 

“The news of the tragic passing of Elder and Mrs. Fordham is, to say the least, devastating and heartbreaking. Elder Fordham was a wonderful church leader, colleague, and faithful friend who positively affected the lives of so many through the years of his ministry.  Surely, He and Sharon will be greatly missed. While our deep sadness for this great loss is overwhelming, our consolation is the knowledge that they were prepared for this day back when they first accepted Jesus as their Savior. As the apostle Paul reminds us, ‘We do not grieve as others do who have no hope.’ Our hope is in Jesus, His soon return, and the resurrection of all those who have fallen asleep in Him. Let our prayers be for the extended Fordham family and for all the members of our sister conference. Come, Lord Jesus.”