On Sunday 16 December at the end of a Christmas service, Megan Franklin, wife of the pastor of St Giles Christian Mission, Islington, eight-months pregnant, slipped on a step and cut her knee.
It seemed so minor that my husband, along with the others present, heard nothing of it. However, it soon turned everything upside down. After suffering headaches Megan visited hospital on Christmas Day and their intensity with resultant loss of sight soon caused alarm. On Friday 28 she phoned to cancel our family visit, yet the following day she permanently lost consciousness. She died as a result of a Strep-A bacterial infection on Sunday 6 January. Mercifully, the doctors were able to deliver the little boy successfully by Caesarean, to become the seventh child in the family.
Megan was born on 28 August 1981, in Cheyenne, Wyoming, to Byron and Angela Boyd. The Lord blessed her with 37 full years before calling his faithful servant home. Although we grieve for a life seemingly cut short, we praise God for Megan and for his love that clearly shone through her.
Joy to work with
Megan and Brad became known to us some eight years ago when they, like us, moved to Islington to serve in local churches. Our families became friends, supporting each other in the ministry. Megan and I were part of a home-school group and it was a joy to work with her, teaching her children and having my daughter taught by her. Megan was nicknamed Supermum because she was so active and energetic, and there was always a baby on her hip! Although her hands were full, she was always willing to give advice, make a meal go further, open up her home or offer a helping hand.
Megan was a sweet friend. She gave generously and received happily. She encouraged me, she challenged me. In the terrible week leading to her death I learned that she was a good friend to many, and within her church and beyond, she was the ‘go to Titus 2 woman’ to more than a few. Megan’s Christ-centred, hope-filled approach to life was evident to all. She lived well for the Lord and depended on him, knowing that her strength came from him. In trials it was always her prayer that she would suffer well and bring glory to God.
Megan loved God and her neighbours. She will be dearly missed by Brad, their seven children, her family, her church and all of us who had the privilege to know her.
‘Well done good and faithful servant … Enter into the joy of your master.’
