Ophelia De Visser is one of the unsung heroes of the A3 family. She was the solid, steady support behind her well-known and renowned family, ensuring they were grounded while they served Christ on a national and global scale.
During the 14 years that we’ve known Ophelia, she has suffered from past surgeries, cancer, and other physical challenges. Regardless of the pain, she has maintained a joyful spirit. Even when those of us around her agonized over her suffering, she remained steadfast and resilient.
Ophelia is an inspiration to all of us. Her love and care within the A3 family is unparalleled. She was a bedrock of support and her fun, silly spirit encouraged us through the various trials we’ve faced as a mission. She was a faithful partner in ministry with Adrian as he led us into new countries and pioneered biblically fashioned ways to respond to global crises. I would argue it was her support that made him that much stronger. Likely the same has been true for Prashan and Thilini in the areas of ministry that they oversee.
While we are glad that Ophelia is free from pain and rejoice that she is with our Savior, we will miss her deeply. She was a faithful prayer warrior, interceding for people around the world. We know that the way she lived and died will have a powerful impact on many.
Ophelia had discussed her funeral requests with her family. Her instructions were to celebrate, and not to cry. She said she was going to be with Jesus and that was a reason to celebrate! In honor of her request, everyone was asked to wear purple to the funeral service.
Her life is an example for all of us to follow: steadfast and faithful, solid and true, fun spirited and even silly when the times needed it, and finally joyful, even in the midst of suffering.
Heaven has gained a winsome spirit and our hearts are grieving her loss this side of eternity. Yet, we hold out this hope that she was ever faithful to remind us about: the world is better on the other side!
We love you, Ophelia, and look forward to seeing you again one day!
Joe and Silk Handley
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Message from the De Vissers:
- We are trying to have a collection of stories of Ophelia's incredible impact. It is hard to keep a tab of the many messages and conversations during the past few days. Please consider using this link to upload your memory and story of her impact on your life. This will be a gift to her grandchildren and to us as we continue to celebrate her life and memory. More importantly, for us to continue to live by her example:
- If would like to watch the celebration service, please use this link:
- Burial service link:
- Thank you once again for all the messages, calls, and those who loved us and embraced us throughout this time. We are touched and eternally grateful to all of you.
