Some of us called you Pastor; some called you Padre, Priest, or My Preacher. Others called you Counselor, Confidant, Friend or Headmaster. And some of us called you Dad or Papa. All of these words are true but only partially descriptive.You always provided a shoulder to cry on, an uncritical ear to bend and had words to believe or inspire. Perhaps that is why most of us called you Father.Now has come the time to thank you, say our goodbyes and wish you well on your next journey. How can we appropriately thank someone who brought us new life? In you, we witnessed a perfect example of the one whose name you always proclaimed.All we can say is, “We Love You!” Our prayers go with you now and always. (Written and edited by someone who knew and loved our Dad.)Harland B. \Steve\ Birdwell was preceded in death by his wife, Charlene Smith Birdwell. He is survived by his daughter, Cynthia Marshall and husband, John of Big Spring; his son, Scott Birdwell and wife, Alison of Houston; his grandchildren, Kristen Elder and husband, Richard of Alexandria, Virginia, Zac Marshall of Midland, Colin Birdwell, Sam Birdwell and Emma Birdwell all of Houston; a great-granddaughter, Annabell Marshall of Big Spring; his invaluable caregivers, Carrie Harvell, Dorothy Whitaker and Shelly Headrick; his beloved cat, Sasha; and a whole host of family, friends and “flocks”.Reverend Harland Bryan “Steve” Birdwell was born November 1, 1928. A retired Episcopal priest/accomplished jazz trumpet player/lover of all animals who spent a lifetime serving God's people in Colorado City, Texas, Sweetwater, Texas, Big Spring, Texas, Roswell, New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico, Albany, Texas and Abilene, Texas, died February 5, 2015.Memorial services will be 4:00 PM Sunday, February 15, 2015 at St. Mary's Episcopal Church.The family suggests memorials to St. Mary's Episcopal Church, 1001 S. Goliad St., Big Spring, Texas 79720 or to the humane society of your choice.Arrangements under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Big Spring. Online condolences may be made at: www.npwelch.com,
