Peace of Mind through Estate Planning

"I just want people to know Jesus."

Back in the mid-1990s, Everett and Elvina Miller were assisted by Mike Fischer, a gift planning counselor with The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) Foundation, in setting up their first Christian estate plan. At that time, Everett was very involved in real estate investments — particularly apartment complexes. Everett frequently told Mike that "you can't go wrong with real estate. God is not making any more earth."

A couple of decades later, with the passing of Everett, Elvina was finding it difficult to manage their estate. She had some assistance from dear friends, but she still found it daunting. Additionally, she started to experience some health challenges. That's when, according to Elvina, a phone call came out of the blue and Mike paid her a visit at the end of 2019.

After many visits and much time spent doing research and connecting with various advisors, Elvina was able to have her estate issues resolved and contingency plans put into place. As a faithful financial supporter to many LCMS ministries, Elvina now has a thorough estate plan that takes care of her and will provide wonderful resources to the church-at-large after she goes to heaven. Elvina is at peace knowing that all is in order with trusted advisors. One component of her estate plan is an endowment with the LCMS, which will provide income for National Mission.

With the confidence that she no longer needs to worry about managing her affairs and that God's blessings will be of great benefit to the church after she goes to heaven, Elvina is active in her daily devotions, works weekly at a Braille center and faithfully attends her church on Sundays with her caregiver, who enjoys worshiping with Elvina.

"I just want people to know Jesus," Elvina says.