A tribute and inside look into the life, passing, and impact of Macel Falwell, wife of Liberty University’s founder, Jerry Falwell Sr.
The beautiful Macel Falwell in her prime.
On Oct. 15, in Lynchburg, Virginia, the wife of Liberty University’s founder passed away leaving memories of impact, respect, and love shared by many.
After her husband’s death in 2007, Macel Pate Falwell, 82, suffered from long-time illness, peacefully passing in her home, a source entered into NewsAdvance.com‘s obituary.
Jonathan Falwell, her son and pastor of Thomas Road Baptist Church tweeted moments after her death.
Macel and Rev. Jerry Falwell, Sr., had three children, Jerry Falwell Jr, current president of Liberty University; Jonathan Falwell, pastor of Thomas Road Baptist Church; and Jeannie Falwell Rivers, surgeon.
Though the pianist, artist, professor, and leader was described as being “quiet and reserved,” the impact she brought to students of Liberty University spoke a thousand words.
“She came to my recital as a senior, as well as an opera that I was in. She stayed after to speak with me and she was very encouraging. I knew that she was a gifted musician, so her encouragement meant so much to me. I later returned to Thomas Road to sing, and she was always so gracious. She was a real champion for the arts at LU in the early days,” Dr. Mindy Damon, music professor and 1999 alumni of Liberty University said.
The wife of Jerry Falwell Sr. for 49 years left a legacy as many alumni remembers to be “faithful” and “unselfish.”
“I think of [the word] ‘unselfish.’ I remember thinking how hard it must be to share her husband with so many people for so much of their lives.” the professor said.
“When I hear her name, I think about the word ‘faithful.’ She was a faithful wife and mother, and endured the constant scrutiny of the media and critics,” Sonya Chittum, 1979 alumni of Liberty University said.
Many remember her life here on earth as they remember the many things she accomplished.
- Co-founder of Liberty University
- Alumni at Liberty University and a professor
- Author of Jerry Falwell: His Life and Legacy
- Leader and 50-year pianist for Thomas Road Baptist Church
- Courageous wife to a fearless leader and mother to extraordinary children
Students honored their past president’s wife in convocation and payed their respect in a moment of silence led by the campus pastor.
Family and friends shared their condolences at her funeral held on Oct. 27, at Thomas Road Baptist Church.
Written by Christianne Gormley
NEWS&COFFEE 