I stood by his bed and the only thing that came to mind, “It’s hard to watch Superman die”. Well, he died this last Sunday morning. Armon Newburn went to heaven.

I’ve spent the last two days searching for the words to describe him. Hero…champion…legend…protector…leader. None of them are good enough, or big enough. Sorry, but the best I can come up with is Superman.

The obituaries will speak of the former District Superintendent, the Executive Presbyter, lifetime leader and preacher. He was a faithful husband, wise father and proud grandfather. He was the model for any position he ever held and for those who follow him. But for me, all I can come up with is, ‘Superman’.

He was my mentor, spiritual father and friend, and, and…I give up. I can’t find the words. Simply stated, one of the best gifts God ever gave me was Armon Newburn.

Superman died? No, he just beat me across the finish line. He won again.

See you soon, Superman. I love you. (I hope it’s alright that I said that to Superman.)