By By Lisa Tindell
news editor
A ready-to-bloom plant rising from the ashes in Appleton is proof to Lois Darby that things lost can come back.
Darby’s home was completely destroyed by fire March 5 with the owner escaping only with her wheel chair, one dress and her life.
Getting the house back may take a while since Darby had no insurance on the structure. However, a group of people she attends church with is doing their part to help rebuild a home for the wheel chair bound friend.
Darby attends services at the Crossroads Community Church in East Brewton where David and Teresa Dykes serve as pastors. Teresa Dykes said the church has plans to help Darby with necessities, including rebuilding her home.
Part of that help will come with funds raised at a yard sale planned at the church May 8. The church is located near the intersection of U.S. Hwys. 41 and 29 in East Brewton.
The fire that took the home Darby had lived in for 57 years came in the middle of a cold winter night and took her by surprise.
One other thing that saved her life was a borrowed motorized wheelchair, she said.
Darby said the fire started around 4 a.m. on the morning of March 5 engulfing the home almost immediately.
Darby had little time to react to the fire making only one phone call — to 911.
Although she saved only one dress, Darby has been blessed through the generosity of others and has clothes to wear.
Darby’s nephew, Brad Darby, also lived in the home with his aunt. He lost all of his belongings in the blaze as well. Although he was not at the residence on the night of the fire, he said the loss was sickening.
Darby said her nephew and other friends and family are working to get the site ready to rebuild the home.
Dykes said church members will be working to assist in rebuilding as much as possible.
Dykes said Darby has been a member of the church family for several years and has been a blessing to those who attend there.
The church has established a fund at Regions Bank, Dykes said.
Donations of any amount can be made to help with personal needs or home construction.
To make a donation at Regions, deposits can be made to Crossroads Community Church, For Benefit of Lois Darby account.
Dykes said contributors can request a receipt for tax purposes and one would be provided.