Worship  •  8:30am & 11:00am
Sunday School  •  9:45am
13100 Warwick Blvd  •  Newport News  •  VA 23602
Tel: 757.249.0374

Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

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History

The Reformation Festival Concert Series was inaugurated in April 2004 with the brass choir and vocalists from Christopher Newport University, Newport News, VA.  The concert series was conceived to promote the musical arts in our community.
In April, the Reformation Festival Concert Series was renamed in memory of Mildred McDaniel, who was a 40-plus member of the church.
Mildred (nee Brehm) McDaniel was born in Enhaut, near Harrisonburg, Pa. in February 1929. When she was five years old, Mildred’s parents relocated to Newport News, VA in search of employment. Her father, John L. Brehem, lost not only his job, but also his home. With the help of a friend, John Nissley, who was from John’s hometown, he was able to secure a position at Newport News Shipyard in 1934.
Mildred attended Hilton Elementary School and was graduated from Morrison High School (now known as Warwick High School) in 1940.
In 1948, Mildred’s friend, Betty Feamster, introduced her to Bobby McDaniel. They were married at Trinity Lutheran Church, then located on 27th Street, Newport News, VA.MMCS History
Mildred was a member of the church for more than 40 years.  She was involved not only in the church’s choir, but also its Worship and Music ministry throughout her years of membership.
In December 2003, Mildred died peacefully at home.  With the proceeds from the sale of Mildred’s estate, her son John made a contribution to the church.  A portion of the gift went to the organ fund and the other portion was used to establish this concert series in memory of Mildred.
John resides in New Orleans, LA with his wife Dara and son Chance.
Mildred is survived by her sister Anne Hall, who lives in Newport News and is a member of Reformation, and brother Robert Luther Brehm.

 

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