New Mount Olive Baptist Church Honors Barbara Pagan

Ms. Barbara Pagan

Phenomenal. That’s what comes to mind when you think of her.

Ms. Barbara Pagan has impacted the lives of so many. She has helped build and shape people’s lives in a way that is firm, nurturing, and loving.

Born in Asheville, North Carolina, 85 years ago, Ms. Pagan has been a pillar in her community and her church, even contributing to the editorial column for the Asheville Citizen-Times. She has also served on the hospitality committee, as a deaconess, and a Sunday school teacher at New Mount Olive Baptist Church.

When asked how she feels about being honored, she responded: “I haven’t thought much about it. Everything I’ve done, I’ve done because of God.”

This is a perfect example of the type of person Ms. Pagan is, a loving woman who based her family in this community. She is the widow of the late Bruce Pagan, and has four children, eleven grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren. Her humbleness matches the grace and beauty in everything she does; none can describe the effect she has on anyone she encounters. She is truly extraordinary.

Ms. Barbara Pagan has been a part of New Mount Olive for more than 70 years, since the 1940s, and considers herself blessed to still be here. She has aided and guided others to help shape some of the core values NMOBC holds today.

Given all that Barbara Pagan has poured into so many people, it’s only right that NMOBC pours into her. Therefore, November 10, 2019 will be known as Sister Barbara Pagan day at NMOBC. On this day, her church family will shower her with the love she has so selflessly bestowed on countless others.