Lorene McKenzie

On April 16, 2024, at 3:15 AM, which was her prayer time for many years, Mrs. Lorene Lands McKenzie’s faith was made sight, at the age of 92. She was born on March 6, 1932, in Arab, Alabama, the daughter of the late Alver Lee Lands and Maggie Jane Nixon Lands. Lorene was a Carroll County resident for 86 years.

Lorene, a woman of remarkable intellect, achieved numerous academic milestones in her life. She graduated from Whitesburg High School and went on to pursue higher education, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, a Master of Education, and a Master of Guidance and Counseling from the University of West Georgia.

Lorene's impact extended beyond her academic achievements. She dedicated many years to counseling, where her caring and compassionate nature shone through. As the wife of Rev. Jesse E. McKenzie, she served as a Pastor's wife for an impressive 56 years, a role that allowed her to touch the lives of many in their community and beyond.

As an active member of New Lebanon Baptist Church, Lorene's faith was a guiding force in her life. She lived her life according to Acts 4:12, “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” Mrs. Lorene taught Sunday School for an astounding 70 years, a testament to her unwavering commitment. Her dedication to helping others extended beyond the church walls, as she founded a local widow's ministry and a prison ministry, demonstrating her selflessness and compassion.

Lorene was also a mentor and friend to many children in her neighborhood. She founded a Saturday morning breakfast and Bible club to teach them about faith and life. Evangelism was a way of life for her.

Lorene was also an excellent cook and baker. She loved nothing more than preparing delicious meals for her friends and family.

Overall, Lorene was an extraordinary woman who lived a full and meaningful life. She will be remembered for her kindness, compassion, and generosity, and for the many lives she touched during her time on earth.

She leaves behind to cherish her memory her children: Barbara & Colon Hemrick, Dennis & Kathleen McKenzie, Debbie & Eddie Argo, and Dianne & Alan Morgan; grandchildren: Craig Hemrick (Becky), Kelly Myers (Matthew), Jess Argo (Brittany), Jonathan Argo (Lacey), Nathan McKenzie (Christina), Sarah Armstrong (Rob), Kathryn McKenzie, Daniel Morgan (Brittany), Lori Morgan, Josh McKenzie, Jason McKenzie, and Jared McKenzie; great-grandchildren: Mackenzie Myers, Karis Myers, Caleb Myers, Lawson Myers, Jake Argo, Hannah Argo, James Argo, Judah Argo, Jailey Argo, Wyatt McKenzie, Nolan McKenzie, and Memphis McKenzie; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her loving husband, Rev. Jesse E. McKenzie; son, Rayford McKenzie; siblings: Eugene Lands, Lucille Walker, E.C. Lands, Ed Lands, Rayford Lands, and Wendell Lands; and great-granddaughter Krista Myers.

A funeral service will be held to honor and celebrate Mrs. Lorene’s life on Saturday, April 20, 2024, at 2:00 PM from New Lebanon Baptist Church, with Minister Jonathan Argo and Dr. Paul Dennis officiating. Interment will follow in Abilene Cemetery with Minister Matthew Myers officiating. The following gentlemen will serve as pallbearers: Craig Hemrick, Jess Argo, Jonathan Argo, Nathan McKenzie, Daniel Morgan, Jeff Jennings, Josh McKenzie, Jason McKenzie, and Jared McKenzie. Mrs. Lorene’s Sunday School Class, Network Prayer Group, and Cherished Chosen Bible Study will be seated as honorary guests.

The family will receive friends at Martin & Hightower Funeral Home on Friday, April 19, 2024, from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM and again at New Lebanon Baptist Church on Saturday, April 20, 2024, from 12:00 PM until 1:30 PM.

Flowers are welcome. However, the family encourages memorial contributions to be made to New Lebanon Baptist Church, c/o the Philadelphia Sunday School Class, to expand their mission in support of Wings of Eagles and Samaritan's Purse.

Condolence messages can be sent to the family at www.martin-hightower.com. Martin & Hightower Heritage Chapel is in charge of the arrangements.

Click this link to view additional details about Lorene's Services, including any available live streams: https://my.gather.app/remember/lorene-mckenzie