In Sympathy: Gwen Janet Oliver
Mrs. Gwen Janet Oliver, spouse of Rev. Richard E. Oliver, retired member of the Northern Illinois Conference, passed away on Fri., Oct. 2, 2026.
Mr. Saul Garcia, spouse of Rosa Garcia, Lay Missioner with the Northern Illinois Conference, passed away Saturday, July 16, 2022, while visiting his hometown in Mexico. Rosa currently serves as a District Superintendent Supply at Chicago: Chicago Lawn.
Saul was also a Lay Missioner and a graduate of the Conference [Hispanic] Academy for Faith Community Development. He was active in serving at Chicago Lawn's food pantry.
"Saul cared deeply about his community, and as a Lay Missioner, he always searched for ways to uplift his neighborhood," said Rev. Martin Lee, NIC Dir. of Congregational Development and Redevelopment. "When he met people coming to the church's food pantry, he realized that people need not only basic sustenance but spiritual food as well. So he started serving soup and bread before the food pantry doors opened, and while they ate, his wife Rosa would offer short devotions."
Saul was 72 years old.
A visitation will be held Friday, July 22 from 4 pm until midnight at Chicago Lawn United Methodist Church, 3500 W 63rd Street, Chicago, IL 60629. A funeral service will be held Saturday, July 23, 2022, at 9:00 am also at Chicago Lawn UMC.
Messages of condolences may be sent to:
Rosa Garcia
3500 W. 63rd Place
Chicago, IL 60629
rosa43garflo@yahoo.com
Mrs. Gwen Janet Oliver, spouse of Rev. Richard E. Oliver, retired member of the Northern Illinois Conference, passed away on Fri., Oct. 2, 2026.
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