Jarratt's ministry continues long after leaving pulpit

The Port Arthur News

November 22, 2008 03:00 pm

— By David Ball
The News staff writer
The Rev. Byron Jarratt joked that since retiring, he is sometimes busier than when he worked.
Jarratt served 40 years as a Methodist minister throughout East Texas and his hometown of Port Arthur. He retired seven years ago, but he’s not fully retired as he still does pulpit fill-in, visitation — sometimes baking bread for those who are sick, and preaches funerals. He’s also active in the community attend events.
In fact, several nominators sent in letters of support for Jarratt to become The Port Arthur News Citizen of they Year 2008.
“I cleaned up the inside hedge (on the vacant house nearby). I’m behind edging on the curb. I was raised on that street. I just want the neighborhood to look better. I pick up cans while I’m walking and pick up trash. I took limbs from (Hurricane) Ike to the curb and I’ve ben doing neighborhood watch patrols in the neighborhood since I retired,” he said.
The aluminum cans he collects are redeemed for the First United Methodist Church of Port Arthur.
Jarratt has been the interim president the past six months of the Griffing Park Neighborhood Association. He’s became a member of the Metro Lion’s Club five years ago and he’s also a member of the Southeast Texas Collectors’ Club, the Community Concert Association and Lamar- Port Arthur Alumni Association.
Jarratt was a charter representative of Boy Scout Troop 75. The troop is affiliated with FUMC of Port Arthur and at it’s peak, produced two Eagle Scouts a year. He was also a scout master for four scout troops. He organizes games of bridge and dinners, too and as a lifetime member of the Port Arthur Historical Society.
“I collect a lot of things — I have 100 historical Port Arthur post cards and a 1785 Methodist Book of Discipline,” he said.
Jarratt is a third generation Port Arthuran and his family history stretches back to the earliest days of the city. His father and grandfather built 500 homes in the area around DeQueen Elementary.
Shelba Spears is one of the nominators and said Jarratt also mows the lawn of the vacant home and attends special events in period attire.
Syble Gates calls Jarratt a modern day Samaritan.
“Where there is a need, he is there to help. No task is too inconvenient or difficult for him, whether it’s mowing someone’s grass or chauffeuring for them,” Gates said. “He neither seeks nor desires recognition for these good deeds. We only hear about them through those whom he has helped.”
Helen James said Jarratt gives of his time, talents and heart to his community.
“He is always volunteering for needed jobs, and spends many hours weekly doing things for others,” she said.
Delores Rothmann said his positive attitude and happy personality make him a joy to be around.
“He has no one negative thought in his mind,” she said.
“Living in Port Arthur gets under your skin and I want to do what’s best for the community and the city. To help people in need. That’s why I joined the Lion’s Club because it fit in as me being a pastor,” Jarratt said.

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