It was a bittersweet celebration.
More than 80 staff members, friends and family gathered on Thursday, Dec. 10 to say farewell to Bryan Mesh, development director and former CEO of Beth Sholom Village, and to Pam Guthrie, administrator of The Terrace and former BSV director of social work.
Mesh worked for BSV for 20 years and Guthrie for more than 24 years.
As director of development, Mesh secured gifts that assisted with capital improvements and superior care and comfort for those who entered the doors of their new home at BSV. Mesh led the Village’s fundraising events such as the annual Janet Gordon Mahjong Tournament and Dick Porter’s Golf’s Longest Day. He forged relationships that have helped sustain The Village today and beyond. He joined the organization in 1998 as administrator of the Berger-Goldrich Home and became CEO of BSV when the Terrace was built. In 2008 Mesh assumed the position of development director.
In her 24 years at BSV, Guthrie was often the first person new residents met. She became close with family members and as such, celebrated life cycle events and grieved with many over losses. Guthrie has also been recognized nationally for leadership that led The Terrace to receive outstanding accolades.
Heartfelt speeches about Mesh and Guthrie were delivered by Bill Berger and Miriam Seehrman, past presidents of The Home; Allison Whiteman, activities director at BSV; and David Abraham, CEO of BSV. They all talked about the wonderful attributes and characteristics of the two retirees. Josh Mesh, Bryan’s son, also spoke. Guests reflected on cherished memories, and yet, they were saying goodbye to dear friends.
When asked to honor Mesh and Guthrie, the community responded by donating more than $7,000 to Beth Sholom Village, making sure their legacy continues.
To contribute in honor of Bryan Mesh and Pam Guthrie, go to www.bethsholomvillage.com and push the “Donate Now” button on any web page.
Beth Sholom Village is a constituent agency of United Jewish Federation of Tidewater.