Beloved Pastor’s Wife Succumbs To Injuries After Home Invasion
Lucy Pat Curl, the 85-year-old wife of Bill Curl, a long-time pastoral care minister at First Baptist Church Orlando, tragically passed away after being severely beaten during a home invasion on Friday. She succumbed to her injuries early Wednesday morning at the Orlando Regional Medical Center. The suspect, Ronald D. Davis, a 55-year-old ex-convict, has now been charged with first-degree murder in connection with the crime. He had been released from prison earlier in 2024 after serving time for burglary, assault, and robbery.
The Curl family confirmed Lucy Pat’s death through a statement on social media, expressing their sorrow and peace that she was no longer in pain. They also emphasized the importance of forgiveness, with Bill Curl pledging to forgive Davis despite the violent attack on his wife. The family urged the public to follow this example and choose forgiveness as they mourn their loss.
According to reports from First Baptist Orlando’s Senior Pastor David Uth, the attack occurred while Bill was at work counseling at the church’s Center for Pregnancy. Lucy Pat answered a knock at the door and encountered Davis, who claimed to be a community service officer. After she asked for his identification, Davis allegedly forced his way into the home, attacked her, and caused a significant head injury when she struck a coffee table.
Doctors initially hoped surgery could relieve the pressure from the brain bleed Lucy Pat suffered during the attack, but further scans revealed that the damage was too extensive for treatment. Despite being in great health and a cancer survivor, her injuries proved fatal. The family has asked for privacy as they grieve and has announced that a memorial service will be held at First Baptist Church Orlando on February 16.
The tragic incident has left the community in shock, and the Curl family continues to emphasize love and forgiveness in the face of such a devastating act. Their message of peace, as well as Bill Curl’s decision to forgive, has resonated deeply with those who know the family and their faith.