Prayer Garden
The prayer garden at the Georgia Barnette building is a place to pray, reflect and remember those who have contributed to building God’s kingdom in local churches and through the cooperative missions and ministries of Louisiana Baptists. Their vision, their sacrifice and their obedience lives on as thousands of lives are influenced for God’s Kingdom each year through the events held at Tall Timbers.
David Abernathy
Rolling Hills Ministry
1989-present
Donated by: John Cowling
He is Director of Rolling Hills Ministries, Ruston, LA; 1989-present.
Jerri Abernathy
Rolling Hills Ministries
1989-present
Donated by: John Cowling
Rolling Hills Ministries, Ruston, LA; 1989-present.
Art & Edna Achord
Director of Missions
Adolphe Stagg Assn
Donated by: Herman & Mary Callais
As Director of Missions, Bro. Achord, with his loving spirit, was always there for us. He was my mentor when I was called to preach.
Bernice Alexander
McDonald Baptist
Donated by: McDonald Baptist
She was born December 1923. She was one of the 48 charter members of McDonald Memorial Baptist Church which began in July 1938. She devoted her entire life to service and leadership. She started and served as WMU, YWA, GA Director. She says, “I am thankful for McDonald Memorial Baptist Church, faithful to work to make it a better place to worship our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.”
Johnnie S. Allen
Feliciana, Clinton
Donated by: Don & Lanie Phares
Grandma Allen served the Lord faithfully all of her life.
Jess Archer
Missions Education
LA Bapt. Convention
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Jess was born and raised in Lafourche Parish. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Nicholls State University where the Baptist Collegiate Ministry played a major role in her salvation and discipleship experience. She obtained a Master of Divinity with a Specialization in Urban Missions from NOBTS. She served on church staff at First Baptist Church of Avondale for six years before working with Louisiana Baptists.
C. E. Autry
Evangelism Dir.
1951-1952
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
In 1949, the LBC created the Department of Urban Evangelism headed by C.E. Autrey. This department was focused on urban areas in the same way the Department of Rural Evangelism related to the state’s rural churches. In 1951, he became our state’s leader in evangelism. Dr. Autrey was an evangelist, author and leader of the Louisiana Baptist Convention and the SBC. Dr. Autrey went on to serve as leader of the Home Mission Board’s Evangelism Department and later taught evangelism at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary.
George Baines
Conv. President
1809-1882
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
George Washington Baines came to Louisiana in 1844 as a missionary of the American Baptist Home Mission Society. He pastored the Rehoboth Church and led in the formation of Red River Association. Baines was one of the founders of the Louisiana Baptist Convention and served as the second president in 1849. He was the first pastor of Minden First Baptist and was responsible for starting numerous churches throughout Louisiana. Baines’ great grandson served as the 36th president of the United States, Lyndon Baines Johnson.
Wayne Barnes
First Baptist Zachary
1962-2001
Donated by: Joyce Barnes
He was pastor of FBC Zachary for 39 years. He led the church to start five mission churches in William Wallace Association. He is very mission-minded in praying, giving, and going.
Wayne & Joyce Barnes
First Baptist Zachary
1962-2001
Donated by: FBC Zachary, Women on Mission
As pastor, Dr. Barnes was instrumental in motivating, challenging and leading in mission work nationally and internationally. Joyce has held many WMU leadership roles.
Lottie Barnett
Eden Baptist Church
50 years
Donated by: Gay Milton
She served more than 50 years as a faithful WMU leader, church clerk and teacher.
Georgia Barnette
WMU Leader
1861-1956
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Secretary of Woman’s Missionary Union of Louisiana from 1905 until1929. During her 25 years of WMU work in Louisiana she worked tirelessly traveling and encouraging Louisiana Baptists in missions. At her retirement, the local missionary societies totaled 373 and the WMU organizations numbered at 852 across the state.
Aubrey J. Bell
Blanche W. Bell
First Baptist Forest Hill
Donated by: Douglas Bell
He was a deacon for 17 years at FBC Forest Hill and architect of the current Worship Center. She was a WMU Director, Bible teacher, VBS Director for over 30 years.
Lucille Bennett
First Baptist Zachary
Donated by: First Baptist Zachary, Women on Mission
She was an active member of WMU for over 60 years. She was instrumental in promoting the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering and other mission offerings. The Everett and Lucille Bennett Scholarship for ministerial students to attend Louisiana College was set up in their memory.
Beulah Bapt. Church
Early Church
March 25, 1816
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Twenty miles north of the Calvary Church, the community of Cheneyville developed into a prosperous community in present day Rapides Parish. Joseph Willis had a number of members living there who traveled to Calvary, Bayou Chicot, to attend services. In 1815, Ezekiel O’Quin arrived in Cheneyville from Wilkinson County, MS (originally from South Carolina). In 1812, O’Quin was ordained and he and Joseph Willis organized the church in March of 1816. O’Quin pastored the church until his death in 1824. Beulah was the second church organized west of the Mississippi River.
Billie Blackman
First Baptist Tioga WMU
North Rapides WMU
Donated by: First Baptist Tioga WMU
She served in mission education at FBC Tioga for about 25 years. She taught Mission Friends and was the WMU Director. She also served on committees for North Rapides Associational WMU. Those of us who were blessed to serve with her knew her passion for mission education.
Jerry & Kathy Blackmon
Layperson
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Lay person volunteers from Calvary Baptist Church, Woodworth. Installed all granite work inside Georgia Barnette Building and the large Louisiana emblem in the prayer garden.
Thomas W. Bledsoe
Layman/President
1811-1871
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Mr. Bledsoe was a deacon in Bossier Parish. He moved to Louisiana from Georgia where he had served as presiding court judge of the Inferior Court of Tolbert County, Georgia. He helped found a church when he arrived here near Fillmore. He was the first layman to serve as convention president and continued to serve 10 times. He also served as moderator of the Red River Association.
Blood River Baptist WMU
Blood River
Baptist WMU
Donated by: Blood River Baptist WMU
Bob & Liz Bollich
35 years of service
Donated by: Debby Guillory, Becky Bollich Wiggins, & Steve Bollich
Robert “Bob” Joseph Bollich served as bi-vocational pastor of Evangeline Baptist (1966-1976); Iota Baptist (1976-2001). He and his wife, Elizabeth “Liz” Firestone Bollich have worked side by side. They faithfully serve and attend FBC Jennings.
George W. Bolton
Lay Leader
1841-1931
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
He was a deacon of Emmanuel Church, Alexandria and committee member of the Executive Board’s reorganization in 1885. He served three years as second vice-president.
David Boothe
Const. Volunteer
2015-2016
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Volunteered work and time to Georgia Barnette Building. He installed all tile work. He served as Minister of Education at Calvary Baptist, Alexandria from 1977-1997 and Associate Pastor 1997-2009.
St. Clair Bower
Director of Missions
Donated by: Evangeline Association
He served more than 60 years in ministry for the Lord, with 43 years spent in south Louisiana where he served 10 years as a Louisiana Baptist Convention Field Secretary for Evangeline, Gulf Coast and Adolphe Stagg associations. He became assistant to the pastor of FBC Lafayette on January 1, 1973, serving alongside Bro. Perry R. Sanders until his retirement. He is the author of “Bower on the Bayou” where he shares stories of his experiences riding up and down the bayou talking to people about the Lord.
E.J. Bradshaw, DOM
VBA, Leesville
1927-2016
Donated by: Vernon Baptist Association
He served faithfully as Director of Missions of Vernon Baptist Association (1927-2016).
Elihu Kilpatrick Branch
1828-1893
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
He traveled to Louisiana in 1850 and in 1857 united with Bayou des Glaises in Avoyelles Parish. Upon entering the ministry, he became a missionary of the convention and in 1869 was assigned the largest area covered, Mansfield to Lake Charles.
Rick Brewer
Louisiana College
President
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Ruth Butler
40 years WMU Director
Donated by: David & Linda Butler
She worked for many years at FBC Woodworth. She was a dedicated Christian mother of eight. She encouraged all of her family to attend and serve the church.
Dr. Rick Byargeon
Pastor
Temple Ruston
Donated by: Temple Baptist
He was pastor, Temple Baptist, Ruston, LA (2000-2001; 2007-2013)
Rev. & Mrs. Chester Cadwallader
Donated by: Temple Ruston
They were Foreign Mission Board missionaries to Central America (1952-1979)
Sr. Mens SS Class
Calvary Baptist Alexandria
Donated by: Sr. Mens SS Class
Calvary Church
Oldest Church
November 13, 1812
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
In 1810, Joseph Willis appealed to the Mississippi Association for ordination, but that ordination did not occur until November 13, 1812. The same day, a church was constituted in Bayou Chicot, LA, in the Opelousas District of our state. That church was the Calvary Church. It is the oldest church in Louisiana and still in existence to this date. It was organized with six members with Joseph Willis serving as pastor. Calvary is the second church that was organized in the state, but the first church west of the Mississippi River.
Angelle Campbell
Assoc BCM Director
LA Tech
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Michael O. Canady
IMB Missionary
Donated by: Linda Canady & children
He served as IMB missionary to Malawi (1976-1992). He served Louisiana Baptists as a Director of Missions, Director of the Louisiana Baptist Convention Church Planting department and as Director of Louisiana Baptist Convention State Missions Services department (1992-2010). After retirement in 2010, he continued to do mission ministry by serving as Chairman of the Missions Committee at FBC Pineville, and encouraging an Act 1:8 involvement by the church to carry forth the Great Commission.
Mike & Linda Canady
Donated by: FBC Pineville
They served as IMB missionaries to Malawi from 1975-1993. Mike served the Louisiana Baptist Convention from 1993-2010, and Linda served with the local church’s WMU as the prayer coordinator. She has also served as the North Rapides Association WMU Co-Director.
Mike & Linda Canady
Donated by: FBC Pineville
The Canady’s served as missionaries from 1975-1993. Mike served the Louisiana Baptist Convention from 1993-2010. He was the director of Church Planting Department and Director of State Missions and Ministry team. Linda served with the local church’s WMU as the prayer coordinator. She has also served as the North Rapides Association WMU co-director.
Catherine D. Carlisle
Oberlin Baptist Church
Donated by: Carla Beth Carlisle
She was first involved in missions as a Sunbeam. She was a mission teacher/leader since 1948. Currently WMU Director at Oberlin Baptist. She also served in summer state missions in 1954 and 1955.
Kathryn Carpenter
LA WMU Executive
1955-1986
Donated by: Janet Hoffman
She began emphasizing stewardship and missions in rural churches in 1943 as Rural Evangelist through LBC, served as WMU Field Worker (1948-1954), and as a LA WMU Corresponding Secretary/Executive Secretary (1955-1986); a total of 43 years of service. She was a mentor to many and was known for her wisdom and high ideals. She was in demand for her speaking about missions which always included Bible passages she spoke from memory.
Kathryn E. Carpenter
WMU Leader
1955-1986
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
She was secretary of the Woman’s Missionary Union beginning in 1955. Under her administration, 45 acres was purchased by the Union for starting Camp Tall Timbers in 1961. Carpenter retired in 1986 after 43 years of service to Louisiana.
Kathryn Carpenter
State WMU Director
Donated by: Herman & Mary Callais
She had a heart for French missions and gave easily of herself. She was an encourager, calling many times just to remind us of her prayers and to ask how she could help.
Thelma M. Carruth
FBC Wilson
Donated by: Linda Carruth
She was active in WMU and served as WMU Director of FBC Wilson (1958-1977).
James M. Carson
Director of Missions
2002-2015
Donated by: LBC Missions & Ministry
He served as Director of Missions for Tri Associations from February 1, 2002 – September 30, 2015.
Clarene Prewitt Carson
Donated by: Elton Carson & Jay Carson
She served on Louisiana Baptist Convention Executive Board Member 1996-1999; Sunday School teacher; Discipleship Training teacher at Maplewood Baptist, Sulphur.
William P. Carter, Sr.
Educator and Pastor
1852-1885
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
William Peterson Carter was born in Pontotoc, Mississippi and a graduate of Mississippi College and Southern Seminary. After the Civil War, he successfully transitioned Mt. Lebanon University into Mt. Lebanon High School and eventually Mt. Lebanon College. In 1880, he and W. C. Friley organized Opelousas Baptist Church. He later pastored churches in Bienville and Claiborne Parishes. He died at age thirty three. He was said to be a sound theologian, a successful preacher and a model pastor.
Kay Cassibry
State WMU Director
1996-1998
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Keith Cating
BCM Director
McNeese
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Area director for New Orleans 2002-2006: BCM Director at McNeese 2006-2017
R. O. Cawker
Evangelism Dir.
1957-1960
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Bailey Chaney
First Preacher
1798-1810
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Tradition has ascribed that he preached the first Evangelical (Baptist) sermon ever heard in Louisiana between 1798 and 1810. The date is unclear because there is no written record. The tradition comes from the recollections of his widow in the late 1840’s. There is little reason to doubt that it happened but when and where it occurred are not certain. Chaney was arrested for preaching unauthorized sermons and imprisoned because it was not Catholicism. After being released he returned to Mississippi.
Louis Charrier
Church Planter
Donated by: Acadia WMU
He first felt the call to plant churches in 1986, which turned into a long history of planting 17 churches throughout the state. For 30 years, he has continued to obey God’s calling to plant churches.
John & Martha Clement
Donated by: FBC Pineville
Dr. John Clement graduated from both Louisiana College and LSU School of Medicine, Shreveport. He served as in internist/oncologist at the Kediri Baptist Hospital in Kediri, East Java, Indonesia. He and his wife, Martha Ray Clement, met at Louisiana College and later attended Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, TX. An LC grad, Martha served as a home evangelist/MK homeschooler for their children, Jenny and Jeffrey.
Gradon & Laura Clemons
FBC Amite
Donated by: Laura Clemons
They serve at FBC Amite, LA. Gradon, 39 years as a deacon; Laura, 38 years as Acteens and GA leader.
Colfax Baptist Church
Organized 1903
Donated by: Colfax Baptist
The church was organized in 1903. It has a focus on missions and ministry to reach others for Christ. Each year there is an emphasis to reach others through the fund-raising efforts of the designated Southern Baptist church offerings to support the work of missions from a local to international perspective. Mission teams go out into the community and into the world to share their saving faith of Christ. Ministry is performed through projects to aid those in distress or facing adversity.
Pat Collie
WMU Assn Director
1994-2005
Donated by: Northeast LA Baptist Association
She was very mission-minded and supported all the WMU groups in Northeast Louisiana.
Bill Collins
BCM Director
NSU
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
With wife Phyllis (Mrs. P) Bro. Bill has been serving Christ by serving the Northwestern State University community since 1989 through the BSU/BCM.
Maryellen Colvin
New Hope Baptist
Donated by: New Hope Baptist
She served for 23 years at New Hope Baptist in WMU. Anyone who came in contact with her soon knew of her love for missions. She was always so very proud to tell them that her daughter and son-in-law were serving as missionaries. New Hope has an aluminum recycling ministry started by Mrs. Colvin, with all proceeds going to missions.
Carl E. Conrad
Donated by: Evangeline Baptist Association
He served in south Louisiana for over 60 years in the capacities of pastor, Louisiana Baptist Convention Area Missions Director, LBC Director of French Missions and LBC State Missions Director. As State Missions Director, he played a significant role in development of mission pastors, who were the sons he never had. He described his wife as a valuable asset and she was as devoted to missions as he. He designed a chapel for houseboat people living on the Atchafalaya who were more comfortable in their isolated world than in a structured church setting. Upon retirement, he served as a missions volunteer at FBC Broussard until the age of 90. He was a visible, humble leader, counselor and respected friend. His reward? “Deep, deep fulfillment.”
Carl Conrad
State Missions Dir
1911-2007
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
In 1955, Conrad became the Director of French Missions for the Louisiana Baptist Convention. This appointment was the beginning of a transition of the work to LBC. Prior to that time, the Home Mission Board of the SBC supported the work of French missions in Louisiana. By 1967, there were 265 Baptist churches in the south with over 4000 baptisms. The job of Director of French Missions eventually became the State Director of Missions. He served in this position until 1976.
Dr. Jeffrey Cook
Compassion Ministry
LA Bapt. Convention
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Missions Staff since 2005; Louisiana Baptist Pastor since 1989.
David Cooper
Early Preacher
1802
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Cooper, a physician, was possibly the first to preach in the Feliciana area of West Florida, near St Francisville. He, along with Thomas Mercer, served as assistants to the first congregation that organized itself in present day Louisiana. He helped organize Half Moon Bluff Baptist Church in Bogue Chitto on October 12, 1812. He was the first preacher to minister and serve as a missionary by horse in the Feliciana area. He died in 1830.
Lane Corley
Church Planting
LA Bapt. Convention
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Claybrook Cottingham
College President
1881-1949
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
He was the President of Mt. Lebanon University until 1902 when he was asked to teach at Louisiana College. In 1910, he became the president of Louisiana College, a post he held for 31 years. He laid the foundation at Louisiana College and helped it to achieve academic standing. Cottingham Expressway in Pineville is named in his honor. After serving as president of Louisiana College, he served as the tenth president of Louisiana Tech University in Ruston, LA.
Rev. John R. Couch
Cornerstone Baptist
Jennings 1967-2012
Donated by: Cornerstone Baptist
He was a dedicated and faithful pastor that served in Texas and Louisiana (1967-2012). He served on the Executive Board of LBC and also as Associational Moderator in Texas and Louisiana. He served on two mission trips to Korea sponsored by the Foreign Mission Board. He had a great love for people and his desire was that all could hear the gospel of Jesus Christ.
John Coulter
Early Settler
1797
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Mr. Coulter was the first known Baptist to set foot on Louisiana soil at Fort Miro, (now Monroe) on April 19, 1797. He was granted land by the Baron de Bastrop in the Mer Rouge and Oak Ridge area. He lived in Louisiana for a decade but eventually moved to Natchez and became the first treasurer of the Mississippi Association, last elected in 1812. Though not known, it is probable that he died in Mississippi in or around 1820.
Ezra Courtney
Pioneer Preacher
1775-1855
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Courtney was born in 1775 in South Carolina. He was ordained in Mississippi in 1806 and sometime thereafter began preaching across the border in the American settlements in West Florida, which are now the Florida parishes of Louisiana, thus making him one of the first Baptist preachers in Louisiana. He later constituted Hepzibah Baptist Church in 1813 and served as missionary to the southeastern Louisiana area. Under Courtney’s leadership, Hepzibah became the largest church in the association.
Franklin Courtney
Conv. President
1812-1896
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
He was a minister, physician, teacher, writer and editor who moved to Mount Lebanon in 1850 to practice his medicine and preach. Courtney was elected president of the convention four times.
William W. Crawford
1st Recording Sec.
1848-1852
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Baptized in 1845, he became the Louisiana Baptist Convention’s first recording secretary and served as a missionary of the convention. He was only in Louisiana a short period of time but did an outstanding job of pastoring churches in Avoyelles Parish.
Rev. & Mrs. Jack Crews
40 years of service
Donated by: New Ouachita Baptist
They served New Ouachita Baptist Church for 40 years.
Geraldine Crosby
VBA WMU
60 years
Donated by: Vernon Baptist Association
She was a member of WMU and served over 60 years. She was a well-loved Vernon Baptist Association WMU Director with many years of service.
P. Lionel Crowell
Donated by: First Baptist, Leesville
He began his years of service at First Baptist Church of Leesville in 1984. During his tenure, the church saw many baptisms and salvations and was deeply committed to supporting the Cooperative Program. One of the major accomplishments during his years at FBC was the construction of a state of the art sanctuary and educational facility, built with the theme of “I will make you fishers of men.” This building celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2019, still being used as an instrument to catch people for Jesus.
Danny Currie
Assoc BCM Director
New Orleans Metro
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Nathan M. Davis
Church Planter
1809-1880
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
In 1858, he reported that as a missionary he baptized 38 converts, constituted four churches and assisted in the ordination of one minister and two deacons. In Winn Parish, he was told that, “he was the first Baptist that ever preached there.” He was a grandson of Henry Humble, a pioneer preacher.
Buddy Day
LBC RA Director
Donated by: RA Congress donation
He pastored churches in Louisiana and Mississippi, leading each of them to be active in missions and mission’s education. Consistently answering the call of God to “Go,” paved the way for his service at Louisiana Baptist Convention (October 15, 1995- March 31, 2003). Retirement in Mississippi led to further service as supply and long-term interim pastor roles, work with his Baptist Association and a partnership with the Frontier Baptist Association in Buffalo NY.
Rev. Stanley Day
Millville Baptist
1970-2008
Donated by: Millville Baptist Church
He was a minister for 44 years. He served on the Louisiana Baptist Convention Executive Board in 1992. He lived a life that exemplified Christ and had a heart for Evangelism.
Shirley Decker
WMU Leader
50 years
Donated by: Adrian Decker
She was a local, associational and state WMU leader with 50 years of service; State WMU Vice-President.
Shirley Decker
WMU Leader
Donated by: Bill & Debbie Hodgkins
She was a local, associational and state WMU leader; State WMU Vice-President.
Shirley Decker
FBC Zachary
Donated by: FBC Zachary, Women on Mission
She was involved in WMU for 79 years beginning as a GA. She was an Acteens leader, WMU Director, Baptist Women’s leader, William Wallace Associational WMU Director, State WMU Vice-President, Sunday School teacher, and trustee on the Southern Baptist Convention Sunday School Board.
Deer Creek Baptist Association
Donated by: Deer Creek Baptist Association
Deer Creek Baptist Association serves thirty one churches in Franklin Parish. Our office is in Winnsboro, Dana Collins is our ministry assistant, and Eddie Rhymes is our Director of Missions.
Berkman Deville
Pastor, Montegut & Golden Meadow
Donated by: Herman & Mary Callais
Herman Callais was saved under his preaching. Bro. Deville was instrumental in beginning the Christian School in Pointe Aux Chene.
Eddie DeHondt
DOM Northwest Assoc.
1999-2009
Donated by: Glenda Hofius
He was Director of Missions of Northwest Baptist Association; Assistant Pastor at Summer Grove Baptist Church, Shreveport, LA.
Eddie DeHondt
Retired DOM
1999-2009
Donated by: Northwest Baptist Association
He is a retired Director of Missions of Northwest Baptist Association starting in 1999-2009.
Lee & Barbara Dickson
Director of Missions
Dist. 8, 38 years
Donated by: Natchitoches Baptist Association WMU
He was Director of Missions of Natchitoches Baptist Association for 38 years; a bi-vocational and full-time pastor; a chaplain in the military, active and reserve for 35 years. She was office administrator of Natchitoches Baptist Association for 34 years. She led conferences and retreats for Discipleship Training and Pastors’ wives. They were both active members of Louisiana Disaster Relief teams for over 15 years. They worked to help organize and support churches in Mexico.
Rev. Brent Dix
Twin Bridges Church
2006
Donated by: Twin Bridges Baptist Church
He has been pastor of Twin Bridges Baptist for over ten years and continues to serve faithfully. He and his wife were missionaries to Mexico and Puerto Rico from November 1999 – April 2005.
Monroe Elmon Dodd
Pastor
1878-1952
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
M. E. Dodd was pastor of First Baptist Church in Shreveport beginning in 1912 and pastored the church for 38 years. He was also president of Dodd College. He preached the annual sermon at the SBC in 1919 and encouraged the convention to press forward in raising money for the mission effort of Southern Baptists. His sermon was so effective, the convention revised their plans to push for $50 million and increased the push to $75 million. He chaired the committee on future programs that year to lead the convention to fund its ministries permanently through a plan that would become the Cooperative Program. Dr. Dodd was one of the nation’s first radio preachers. His sermons were heard nationwide from radio station KWKH in Shreveport every Sunday.
Jamey Droddy
BCM Director
Shreveport Metro
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Jamey Droddy has served as the Shreveport Metro Baptist Collegiate Ministries Director since 2008. Prior to moving to Shreveport, Jamey served as Campus Minister in Atlanta, Georgia for seven years where he worked on the campuses of Georgia Tech, Emory University, and Clayton State University. Jamey Droddy is originally from Elizabeth, Louisiana. He graduated from Louisiana State University in 1997 and earned a Master of Divinity from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary in May 2001.
Wayne DuBose
DOM Northwest Association
2009-2013
Donated by: Northwest Baptist Association
He is a retired Director of Missions, Northwest Baptist Association, 2009-2013.
Dan & Betty Dufrene
Missionary of the South
Donated by: Herman & Mary Callais
They devoted their lives to South Louisiana church planting.
Raymond Eames
Westside, Ferriday
44 years of service
Donated by: Westside Baptist Church
He planted Westside Baptist Church in Ferriday, 1984. He pastored for 44 years total with nine years at Westside.
Dr. Buford Easley
Donated by: Lee Rodgers
East Fork Baptist WMU
Donated by: East Fork Baptist WMU
Willie Ruth Edmonson
FBC Oak Grove
Donated by: Jan Russell & Buster Edmonson
She worked at the Louisiana Baptist Convention in the Training Union department in the 1940’s. She was influential in starting BYPU organizations in several associations in Northeast Louisiana. She was active in WMU at FBC Oak Grove and in Bayou Macon Association until her death in 2007.
Dr. Bartholomew Egan
Educator & Physician
1795-1879
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Bartholomew Egan was born in Killarney, Ireland. Dr. Egan was a physician and teacher. After becoming a Baptist, founded Mount Lebanon University in 1853. As a young man, he was a personal friend of President Thomas Jefferson.
Pete & Edna Eiselstein
1948-1958
Atchafalaya Missions
Donated by: Willow M. Eiselstein & Lois E. Vance
They were Louisiana Baptist state missionaries in the Atchafalaya Basin 1948-1958. They ministered to the French living on the Bayou at Little Brown Church. They established FBC Patterson as a mission in a store-front building, as well as Calumet, Bayou Vista, and Teche Missions.
Aline Eley
Chase Baptist
Donated by: Chase Baptist Church
She has served in WMU both at local and state leadership levels and has supported local, state and global mission giving. She has taught many young women about missions and stirred a love for mission outreach that is evident with the church today.
Elizabeth Elkins
Mount Union Baptist
Faithful Servant
Donated by: Homer McGee
She has served as the pianist for over 50 years, served over 10 years as the president of WMU, worked in the nursery, VBS, helped with Youth, and cooked many meals. She participated in three mission trips to south Louisiana, served as a yellow hat with Disaster Relief which included two trips to New York after 9/11 and several to south Louisiana. She has been faithful in every area of church life.
Carol Escobaus
Donated by: HRBC Women on Missions, Sarah Marcantel, Director
She was a devoted, well-organized hardworking servant of the Lord. Her daily example as a strong Christian woman was unsurpassed; evidenced by reading & studying the Bible, praying for & supporting missionaries but always having the time to listen to others. Generous and consummate prayer warrior. Thank you Lord for sending her our way; praying for more women in our midst such as Carol.
Bo Evans
Donated by: Michael & Betty Evans
Bo was a young member of the Evans family who ministered to all with Christian love and joy. His legacy continues on.
Rev. Mike Evans
Pastor
Elwood Baptist
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Brother Mike and his wife, Betty, are dear friends to Tall Timbers and to Louisiana Baptists. During the planning and fundraising stage of the new Georgia Barnette building, Mike was commissioned to visit churches across the state to raise awareness about the need for the new chapel and to ask for their support. He and Betty have served faithfully at Elwood Baptist and Occupy 2 Baptist Church.
Rev. John Everett
Pastor Emeritus
Carmel Baptist, Kolin
Donated by: Kenneth & Elouise Davis
He was truly a man of God and a man of many gifts. He spent much of his life serving others, teaching others, encouraging others and always showing kindness to others. Through his ministry, he touched the lives of so many in such a positive way. He was a responsible leader and a loving pastor. In love, he proclaimed the gospel to all. He had to resign from Carmel Baptist in 2003, due to illness.
Kenneth Everett DOM
Bienville Concord
Union Web-Claiborne
Donated by: Concord Union, Bienville, Webster-Claiborne Baptist Associations
He was Director of Missions for Concord Union, Bienville, Webster-Claiborne Baptist Associations; 1984-1994
Sarah Farley
Assoc. BCM Director
LSU
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Associate Director at LSU since 2011. Sarah is a Missionary Kid, born in Louisiana, but grew up around the world. She graduated from North Georgia University and received her Masters of Divinity from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. WMU, BCM, and summer missions helped cultivate her heart and calling for college students and missions. She worked at the Georgia Baptist Convention for seven years before serving with Louisiana Baptists on the campus of LSU.
FBC Ferriday WMU
Donated by: FBC Ferriday WMU
WMU First Baptist Church Homer
Donated by: FBC Homer WMU
Over the years many different ladies in our WMU have had a great impact on missions. These ladies are honored for their faithfulness and devotion to missions.
WMU Founders
First Baptist Church
Ruston Louisiana
Donated by: FBC Ruston WMU
This paver is placed in appreciation of the FBC Ruston ladies who, during the last decade of the nineteenth century, organized a society to promote missions. In 1890, the Louisiana Baptist Convention met in Ruston, and a motion was made to organize the Louisiana Woman’s Missionary Union. Soon afterwards, through the dedicated efforts of Mrs. George Thatcher and others of like mind, a WMU, which is still active, was formed at FBC Ruston.
Eula Slade M Findley
Layperson
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Born in Union Parish, she was co-founder of Dodd College. Findley gave generously to the college, as well as the Baptist Bible Institute, Louisiana Baptist Children’s Home and Louisiana College.
First African Baptist Church
New Orleans
October 31, 1826
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
The First African Baptist Church of New Orleans was constituted on October 31, 1826 by two white ministers, William Rondeau and Elisha Andrews. It was the first all-Black church in that city. Eventually Asa C. Goldsbury became the first black pastor to serve the church. Blacks had been restrained from pastoring churches by authorities in the city prior to this date. With Goldsbury’s election as pastor, the church flourished and purchased property on the corner of Howard and Cypress streets. Other black churches were planted and by 1857 there were four black Baptist congregations in New Orleans.
Claude & Betty Fontenot
First Golden Meadow
Donated by: Herman & Mary Callais
They were dedicated to the ministry and many were saved under his preaching. He lived what he preached and was close to our hearts. He served as our pastor for 21 years and we considered them our mentors.
Joyce Foreman
WMU Assn Director
1978-1991
Donated by: Northeast Louisiana Baptist Association
She was a very mission-minded and supportive associational WMU director. Many women remember her and appreciated all she did to encourage the WMU in Northeast Louisiana.
William C. Friley
LC President
1845-1911
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
He served as the first paid agent of the state’s mission program. As corresponding secretary, he restarted the states missionary program in 1878 and in 1881 urged churches to fund a relief program for “destitute ministers and widows.” In 1909, he served as the second president of Louisiana College.
Minnie Lee Frye
WMU Leader 25 years
Donated by: Betty Van Asselberg
She was a WMU leader at Calvary Baptist, Alexandria for 25 years.
Marjorie Futrell
Bethel Colfax
1955-2009
Donated by: Bethel Baptist WMU
Med & Lila Garbarino
State Missionaries
LBC 1956-1977s
Donated by: Their children
They served as mission pastor in French speaking south Louisiana, Cheniere, Reddell and Washington Mission.
Carroll “Booty” Garlington
Caney Lake Baptist
Donated by: Caney Lake Baptist WMU
He was a godly man. He was loved by everyone and he inspired everyone. He was a very wise and loving man. Pastor: Caney Lake Baptist (2005-2009), Calvin Baptist (1998-2001; 2003-2005), Interim McDonald Baptist (1997-1998), Australia Corrimal (1996-1997), Temple Baptist (1991-1995), Richey Baptist (1990-1991), Iatt Baptist (1987-1990).
Cecil D. Gassiott
Layman
2015-2016
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Cecil is a deacon of Calvary Woodworth and a prominent construction businessman in central Louisiana. He is a dear friend to Tall Timbers and Louisiana Baptists. During construction of the Georgia Barnette building at Tall Timbers, Cecil donated the use of his large crane to help set the large wooden frame and beams that are so prominently shown inside the building.
Chad A. Gilbert
Edgewater Baptist
Donated by: Tina & Boone Gilbert
He is pastor of Edgewater Baptist in New Orleans. He is dedicated to preaching the Word and leading by example.
Charles Gilder
Bayou Vista BC
Served 1970-2009
Donated by: Bayou Vista Baptist Church
He served as pastor of Bayou Vista Baptist, Morgan City from 1970-2009. During most of this time, he was Secretary/Treasurer of Gulf Coast Baptist Association. In retirement, he continues to serve in many areas at Bayou Vista Baptist.
Kenneth Gillespie
Businessman
2015-2016
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Kenneth “Noonie” Gillespie was a big help during the construction of the Georgia Barnette building at Tall Timbers. He graciously did the work on all the new parking lot and curbing.
Jamey Gilliland
BCM Director
LSUA
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
When I attended the University of Alabama the Baptist Collegiate Ministries reached out to me and gave me a place to belong. Upon graduation I joined the BCM team at Florida State University and went on to serve at Jacksonville University, Mercer University, Redlands Community College, Rogers State University and the Tulsa, OK metro team. Husband to Sandy and father to Thomas and Micah. We have returned to Louisiana and I am the State Missions Coordinator and BCM director at LSU of Alexandria.
Asa Goldsbury
Church Starter
1826
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
After an agreement with authorities to allow blacks to become preachers and ministers, Asa Goldsbury, an African-American Baptist was ordained pastor of the First African Church of New Orleans where he served along with Deacon Moses Jackson. There had previously been a law restricting blacks from preaching and Goldsbury had been restrained for a period of six months which ended with this agreement. Black Baptist churches were established in greater numbers in New Orleans than the white churches, with four being in operation by 1857. The First Baptist Church of New Orleans which is still in existence today was constituted in December of 1843.
Barbara Pace Goodman
Donated by: Bro. Dale Goodman
She was born on September 19, 1961. As a registered nurse and a dedicated Christian woman, she touched many lives. She served in almost every capacity at Chase Baptist. She was a very capable teacher, musician and prayer warrior. She serves as a caring medical professional, spouse, mother and grandmother.
J. D. Grey
FBC New Orleans
1906-1985
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
He was pastor at First Baptist Church, New Orleans from 1937 until 1972. He served as president of the convention in 1949 and 1950 and as president of the Southern Baptist Convention in 1952-1953. At the time, he was the youngest person ever elected to that office at age 44. Dr. Grey was a great preacher and a founding member of the Louisiana Moral and Civic Foundation.
Dr. Rel Gray
Pastor
Temple Ruston
Donated by: Temple Baptist Church
He was pastor, Temple Baptist Church, Ruston, LA (1958-1960).
Carolle Green
Louisiana Baptists
1990-2008
Donated by: David Anderson
She served as the Childhood Education Strategist for Louisiana Baptists from 1990-2008. The name “Carolle Green” is synonymous with “equipper and encourager”. Through the years, she has been the person Preschool and Children’s ministers have gone to for guidance and direction. She has always been there to help, if at all possible. This is our thank you to her for giving so freely of herself. The Kingdom of God has been impacted through her.
Half Moon Bluff
First Church of La.
October 12, 1812
Donated by: Concord Union Baptist Association
In 1811, a group of Christians from the Bogue Chitto area of present day Washington Parish appealed to the Mississippi Association for assistance in organizing a church. That church was not organized until a year later. On October 12, 1812, the Half Moon Bluff Church was organized on a tiny bluff overlooking a stream. The name of the church was taken from the topography created in the Bogue Chitto River in the shape of a half moon. The church was the first established in present day Louisiana. Unfortunately, the church went into decline between 1820 and no longer existed by 1830.
Luther B. Hall
DOM Concord Union
1973-1975
Donated by: Concord Union Baptist Association
He was Director of Missions of Concord Union Baptist Association (1973-1975).
Tonya Hancock
CWJC Monroe 2010
Donated by: Perry Hancock
She serves as the Executive Director of Christian Women’s Job Corps, a ministry of the Louisiana Baptist Children’s Home. She has also served as a Missions Training Specialist for the Louisiana Baptist Convention and as a trustee of LifeWay Christian Resources.
Perry Hancock
Donated by: Tonya Hancock
Faithfully served as pastor of 3 churches in Louisiana. Served 10 years on faculty and as dean of graduate faculty of New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. Currently serving as President/CEO of the Louisiana Baptist Children’s Home and Family Ministries since 2003. 43 total years of service in ministry
David E. Hankins
Executive Director
LA Bapt. Convention
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
First pastorate in Dallas, 1971. Has pastored churches in Texas, Louisiana, Tennessee and Kentucky. Served as Vice President for Convention Policy (January 1996-March 1998) and Vice President for Cooperative Program (April 1998-January 2005) of the Executive Committee, SBC in Nashville, Tennessee. Unanimously elected Executive Director of the Executive Board of the Louisiana Baptist Convention (October 2004), effective February 1, 2005 and served through June of 2019.
A. I. Hartley
State Missionary
1879
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
As Central Association’s missionary, Hartley, reported that he traveled 1,600 miles, preached 135 sermons and baptized 91 people in 1879. He also organized the St. Maurice Church near Natchitoches and served as pastor.
Green W. Hartsfield
Conv. Secretary
1833-1896
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Hartsfield was secretary of the convention from 1879 until his death in 1896. He was instrumental in aiding preaching schools and establishing and organizing African-American work in Northwest Louisiana.
Jesse B. Hartwell
Missionary
1795-1859
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
He was the first Baptist to enter the foreign mission field from Louisiana. He went to China under the Foreign Mission Board from Rehoboth Church at Mount Lebanon in 1858.
Charles Harvey
Evangelism Dir.
1983-1990
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
John Havlik
Evangelism Dir.
1962-1965
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Dottie Hayes
Mission Leader
Missionary Vietnam
Donated by: Martha Smith
She lives in Lafayette and is still doing mission work. She and her husband, Herman, and her family served as missionaries to Vietnam. She has worked with Vietnamese in Abbeville and other cities.
Herman Hayes
Liberty Baptist
Missionary Vietnam
Donated by: Martha Smith
He was pastor of Liberty Baptist near Linville, LA. He and his wife, Dottie, and family served as missionaries to Vietnam.
William Wright Heard
Lay Leader
1852-1926
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
He was Governor of Louisiana from 1900-1904 and was a member of Fellowship Church in Farmerville. He was moderator of Concord Association in 1889 and elected as president of the convention in 1901.
Wilmer Hendry
Chase Baptist
Donated by: Chase Baptist Church
He and his wife, Vernie, worked tirelessly leading a new church building project at Chase Baptist. The new church facility served to reach the lost for Christ in the local community and through mission offerings.
Hepzibah
Early Church
1813
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Ezra Courtney and George King constituted the Hepzibah (meaning “My delight is in her”) Church on November 29, 1813. Courtney was its first pastor. Even though they were geographically in Louisiana, they were affiliated with the Mississippi Association until sometime around the beginning of the twentieth century, at which time they affiliated with the Louisiana Baptist Convention. In 1866, the church had 130 members, 90 were white and 40 were black. The church ceased to exist after 1921.
Joel P. Hilbun
Pastor
Donated by: Joy Mohr & Kaye Smith
He was Senior Pastor of Vietnamese Hope, Baton Rouge; Center Ridge Baptist, Carmichael, MS (1951-1953); Associate pastor/Music director, Calvary Baptist, Mobile, AL (1953-1955); Magnolia Baptist, Saline (1955-1957); FBC Gueydan (1957-1971); Victoria Baptist, Baton Rouge (1971-1986).
Lurline Hilbun
WMU & GA Leader
Donated by: Joy Mohr & Kaye Smith
She was an encourager to WMU at Hope Vietnamese, a mission’s supporter, and a mission pastor wife. She served in various roles as GA/RA and WMU leader. She served in association as a mission leader and worked with international Christian women.
Leon & Louise Hill
Hill Baptist Church
60 years
Donated by: June Willis
They were both dedicated to the Lord. He was a deacon and she loved WMU. They both went on missions trips to help build churches and teach VBS.
Patsy G. Hilton
FBC Ruston WMU
Donated by: FBC Ruston WMU
She has been a member of FBC Ruston since 1949 and served in many areas; pastor’s secretary, church clerk, deacon, library volunteer, WMU leader, and more. She has served as WMU director, assistant WMU director, group facilitator, youth leader, and has mentored decades of members to continue the work. She expertly produced a WMU yearbook for 30 years. She is not only a leader, but joins in every mission endeavor with a joyful spirit.
Bobby Hodnett
Little Pass Baptist
36 years
Donated by: Little Pass Baptist Church
He was a native of Colfax. For the entirety of his ministerial career, Bro. Bobby has been a tremendous influence in missions and evangelism. He came to FBC Franklin in 1968 as minister of music and missions pastor. He pastored Myette Point Baptist Mission and then in 1973, restarted Little Pass Baptist Church in Charenton. Upon retiring as full time pastor, he became pastor emeritus and pastors Cypremort Point Baptist Mission.
Glenda Hofius
Church, Association, State Mission Leader
Donated by: Northwest Association WMU
She has served in church missions and associational missions. She was an Associational WMU president for Northwest Baptist Association; served as State WMU President, LBC; Disaster Relief Food Chaplain; served on the Georgia Barnette State Missions Offering committee.
Ted R. Hofius
Donated by: Glenda Hofius
He is husband of Glenda Hofius, and he has prayed for WMU and helped in many areas of WMU.
Christy Holcombe
Assoc BCM Director
Shreveport Metro
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Christy helps coordinate collegiate ministry throughout the Shreveport-Bossier area.
Jane Holton
FBC Leesville
Donated by: Craig Forque
She was the daughter of a Mississippi preacher. She began playing piano at three years old when she came home from church and picked out “Jesus Loves Me” on the piano. Jane was a natural. After spending a summer as pianist for Ridgecrest Baptist Encampment, she finished college and eventually came to teach music in Leesville, where she met her husband, Don. She spent the years since using her talents at FBC Leesville for the Lord’s service.
Henry Humble
Pioneer Preacher
1765-1829
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Henry Humble was born in South Carolina and settled in present day Catahoula parish in 1822. He preached along the southern expanse of the Ouachita River and eventually started Catahoula Baptist Church in 1826 (no longer in existence). He served as the church’s first pastor and died just a few years later (1829) on the way home from the annual association meeting. Several of his descendants served in his footsteps as church planters and pastors.
Elizabeth A. Hyatt
Donated by: FBC Pineville
She has been involved in mission education and mission action from the age of seven until the present. She have been an active participant in every level of Woman’s Missionary Union from Sunbeams through Women on Mission in every church she has been a member. She has held associational and statewide WMU offices. She also has participated in volunteer mission’s work of many types in 60 foreign countries.
Leon Hyatt, Jr.
Donated by: FBC Pineville
During his entire active ministry, from age 20-85, he was actively involved in missions as a Mission Pastor, pastor of a sponsoring church, Missions Director, Mission Board trustee and chairman, and voluntary missionary.
Bill & Jerry Ichter
Missionary Brazil
1956-1991
Donated by: Tommy & Cindy Walker
They were music missionaries in Brazil (1956-1991).
W.A. “Bill” Inman
Teche Baptist
47 years of service
Donated by: Teche Baptist Church
He is a lifelong servant of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Kevin Inman
BCM Director
Louisiana Tech Univ.
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Worked with collegiate students in Arkansas, Texas and Louisiana since 1991. Served on the National Collegiate Ministry BC-Net committee. Led mission teams to 6 continents. Served as interim pastor. Husband to Shannan Peery Inman and father to Jack, Anna Kate and Ellie. Active member in local churches throughout his life.
Craig James
Director of Missions
Ouachita Association
Donated by: Ouachita Baptist Association
He was called into the ministry at the age of 30. During his ministry, he has had the privilege to pastor four churches. He is currently the pastor of Pleasant Grove Baptist in Jonesville. He is also the current Director of Missions for Ouachita Baptist Association.
Ed Jelks
Pastor/Bapt. Builder
26 years of service
Donated by: Ethel Baptist Church
He is a retired Baptist Builder (served 26 years); faithful servant of the Lord.
John Ed Jelks
1st Mission Builder
1979-2005
Donated by: Glenda Jelks, Mark Jelks, Paula Ash, Kathy Rish
He started Mission Builders in November 1979 and served through December 2005; continued to serve as a consultant through 2010.
James Jenkins
Dir Church Planting
LA Bapt. Convention
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
James Jenkins is the Director of Church Planting and the specialist for African American Ministries for the Louisiana Baptist Convention. James has a Masters in Missiology from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and a D. Min from the New Orleans Baptist Seminary. James lives in Shreveport Louisiana with Cathy, his wife, and family. James served as a NAMB Church Planting Missionary who in 2005, was honored by NAMB as one of its top five church planters of the year. James and Cathy have been a part of over one hundred church plants across Louisiana.
Joseph W. Jenkins
Teche Baptist
30 years of service
Donated by: Teche Baptist Church
He pastored four churches over the past 15 years. Pastor of Teche Baptist Church in Breaux Bridge.
Wayne Jenkins
Evangelism Dir.
LA Bapt. Convention
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Wayne Jenkins was Louisiana’s longest serving Evangelism Director. He served from 1991 until 2018. He led the state in evangelistic efforts, led revivals, trained decades of pastors in evangelism, as well as mentoring many of the convention employees. Outside the state, Jenkins led Louisiana Baptists to do evangelism in Brazil for two weeks each year for over 20 years, resulting in thousands of decisions for Christ in that country.
Danielle Johnson
BCM Director
LSUE
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Danielle was born and raised in Crowley, LA where she began ministry at FBC, Crowley, serving as Children’s Minister while working on a degree from Louisiana College. She graduated LC with a degree in Religious Education. Danielle began working in housing at LC and pursued a Masters from Northwestern. She is married to Joshua and is mom to Elijah, Asa and Amos. She works with children at Emmanuel and serves LSU Eunice as BCM Director.
Cal Jones
LBC RA Director
Donated by: RA Congress donations
A career in the US Air Force prepared him for ministry and church in RA, Men’s Ministry and Disaster Relief. He trained church RA leaders, mentoring them to raise up boys in their churches to be men of God. Through Baptist Brotherhood and Men’s Ministry, he taught men to serve through prayer and service. Perhaps the ministry he found most rewarding was leadership of Disaster Relief, developing teams and organizing men and women for response in Jesus’ name after times of crisis and disaster.
Idelle Jones
WMU President
Temple Ruston
Donated by: Temple Baptist, Ruston
She was WMU President, Temple Baptist Church, Ruston, LA.
Joseph E. Jones
Layman
1860
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
He donated land for First Baptist Church and cemetery, formerly Macedonia, in 1860. Because of the church, the community was named after him… Jonesboro.
Raymond Jones
Bienville Concord
Union Web-Claiborne
Donated by: Concord Union, Bienville, Webster-Claiborne Association
He was Director of Missions of Concord Union, Bienville and Webster-Claiborne Baptist Associations; 1976-1983.
Barry J. Joyner
Director of Missions
Concord Union Assoc.
Donated by: Concord Union, Bienville, Webster-Claiborne Association
June Kennedy
FBC Zachary
Donated by: FBC Zachary Women on Mission
She was an active member of WMU for over 60 years. She taught Sunday School, BYPU member and leader, Sunday School Director, VBS Director, William Wallace Associational WMU Director.
Verlene Kennedy
Ebenezer WMU
70 Yrs of Service
Donated by: Ebenezer Women of Hope c/o Carolyn Norris
She was born on March 2, 1926 in the Ebenezer community in Chatham, LA. She served alongside her husband, J.W. Kennedy for 51 years, and they had 9 children. Together they served 15 churches across North Central Louisiana. Her heart was serving in missions. She served in churches working in WMU, Young Adults, and Youth. She led women in missions and served by praying and giving in her home church.
Tom & Judi Kent
Donated by: FBC Pineville
They were born and married in Louisiana. They were missionaries in Paraguay, South America from July 1974 to December 2008. While on the mission field, they worked in the areas of church planting, mobile clinics, and emergency medicine.
Myrtle King
WMU President
Temple Ruston
Donated by: Temple Baptist, Ruston
She was WMU President, Temple Baptist Church, Ruston, LA .
Edith K. Kirkpatrick
Women’s Leader
1918-2014
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
She was the first woman elected to membership on the Executive Board of the Convention in 1972. From 1914 until her election, women were allowed to be messengers to the convention, but were excluded from the Executive Board. She was president of the WMU in 1963 when Tall Timbers Baptist Camp was placed into service by the WMU.
Frances W Knight
WMU Leader
Donated by: Martha Knight Elliott
Frances Knight (1921-2016) loved and led missions and mission’s education. She lived it as WMU director of Hillcrest Baptist, Franklinton and in active participation in Washington Association and state WMU. She and her husband, Wilmer, were active in Campers on Mission. Praying for missions and missionaries was an important part of daily activity.
Lottie Knox, Mignon McDonald, Essie Raxsdale
Donated by: Homewood Baptist Church WMU
These three ladies were charter members of Homewood and served in several capacities for many years.
Charles & Louise Krause
Missionary of the South
Donated by: Herman & Mary Callais
Bro. Kraus served with great sacrifice to plant churches in South Louisiana.
Rev. John R. Kyle
Dir. Communications
LA Bapt Convention
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
A native of Oklahoma, John was ordained to ministry in 1976 and served local churches in Oklahoma and Louisiana. He worked for Feed the Children in late 80’s before joining the staff of Trinity Baptist in Lake Charles in 1990.
Bert Langley
Donated by: Evangeline Association
He, along with his wife Deedy, has served churches in Louisiana and Mississippi since 1972. In 1982, he became pastor of FBC Broussard. Twelve years later in 1994, he resigned to become Director of Missions for the Evangeline and Gulf Coast Baptist Associations. He served the two associations until December 2014. From January 2015-April 2016, he continued as Interim Director of Missions. He continues to serve as supply preacher, Sunday School teacher and interim pastor wherever needed.
Rev Dore Langley
Cornerstone Jennings 2012
Donated by: Cornerstone Baptist Church
John Noah Langley
Evangeline Assoc.
1956-2001
Donated by: Wayne & Cameron Mullins
He is a loving and faithful pastor that served these Louisiana churches: Gray Baptist Mission, Gibson Baptist, Ridgecrest Baptist, Ferriday Baptist, FBC Breaux Bridge, Kaplan Baptist, Trinity Baptist, New Iberia and FBC Abbeville. He served as chaplain for Hospice of Acadiana for many years.
Lloyd & Betty Langston
Missions & Ministry
Donated by: Rebecca Reynaud
They are dedicated to the support and work of missions in the church and around the world. They have served as Senior Adult ministers for 30 years. Betty was Acteens and Youth on Mission Director for her church and association, as well as WMU Director of her church.
Tom W Leachman DOM
Union Bienville Webster-Claiborne Associations
Donated by: Concord Union, Bienville, Webster-Claiborne Associations
He was Director of Mission of Concord Union, Bienville and Webster Claiborne Baptist Associations; 1972-1975.
Grace Lee
Donated by: FBC Pineville
She served over 40 years in International Ministry. In that time, she helped create an annual international supper for her community, and wrote a devotional book for leaders of international ministries called “Communicating Heart to Heart.” She has also served for over 40 years in WMU. She was the director of YWA (Young Women’s Auxillary) for two years and served as WMU Director several times. She is the co-founder of the state-wide event, Ministers’ Wives’ Retreat held yearly at Tall Timber Baptist Conference Center.
Nell Leggett
New Hope Baptist
Donated by: New Hope Baptist Church
She has served for 65 years at New Hope Baptist Church in WMU. Also worked with GA’s, Sunday School and Bible School. Many people remember her as someone who taught about missionaries and Jesus.
Dale D. Lingenfelter
Business Admin – CFO
LA Bapt Convention
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Dale began work with the Louisiana Baptist Convention in May of 1996 as Information Services Director. He was promoted to Business and Information Services Director, Chief Financial Officer, in September of 2005. His education and experience in Business and Computer Technology prepared him for his role as Director of the Business and Information Services Team. Dale is credited for bringing automation and technology standards to the LBC allowing State Missions Services to operate more efficiently and effectively.
Sadie P Linzay
Donated by: Doug & Barbara Bell
She loved her local church and served wherever needed or was asked to serve in both leadership offices and volunteer positions. She served at FBC Forest Hill and Calvary Baptist, Alexandria. Her favorite scriptures that she lived by were Matthew 22:37 and Psalm 23.
Kimberly Loewer
Dir Women on Mission
1994 to Present
Donated by:Ladies of WMU Acadia
The ladies of Women on Mission are giving this paver in honor of Kim Loewer in appreciation for her example of faithfully serving the Lord and challenging us to reach higher goals on our mission for the Lord. Kim is a resident of Eunice, Louisiana. Her passion is serving and sharing Christ’s love with people of all ages. Under her leadership the number of ladies participating in Women on Mission, Acadia Association continues to grow.
Louisiana College
Founded 1906
Donated by: Dr. Rick Brewer
The mission of Louisiana College is to provide liberal arts, professional and graduate programs characterized by devotion to the preeminence of the Lord Jesus, allegiance to the authority of the Holy Scriptures, dedication to academic excellence for the glory of God and commitment to change the world for Christ by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Don Love
Cook Baptist Ruston
Donated by: Martha Smith
He was an active member of Cook Baptist Church. Served as Sunday School teacher, Discipleship Training Director, deacon, choir member and on many committees. With his wife, Alice, he started a ministry to international students.
Don & Alice Love
Cook Baptist Church
Donated by: Jerry Love
They served the Lord throughout their marriage of 56 years, first at St. Rest Baptist Church near Dubach and then for nearly 40 years at Cook Baptist Church in Ruston. Don served as a deacon and he taught Sunday School. Alice made her church a more welcoming place through her gifts of arranging flowers and hospitality. Together, they began an international Sunday School class that shared the love of Christ to students from South America, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.
Rev. Fred Luter, Jr.
Franklin Avenue New Orleans
Donated by: Franklin Avenue Baptist Church
He is pastor of Franklin Avenue Baptist Church since 1986; the first African-American President of the Southern Baptist Convention (2012-2014); faithful servant of God, personifying the love of Christ.
Charlotte Mabry
Temple Baptist
Ruston Louisiana
Donated by: Temple Baptist, Ruston
She was WMU President, Temple Baptist Church, Ruston, LA.
Don F. Mabry
State Missions Dir.
1976-1992
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
He served Louisiana Baptists as State Director of Missions for 16 years. He was born in 1934 and began his LBC ministry in 1976. During his time in leadership, the Missions Division worked to plant some 1200 new mission churches. Many of their new starts focused on churches for each people group and making sure each new start had sponsoring churches and co-sponsoring partners. Prior to this time, many new church starts had been direct missions of the convention. These were years when many new techniques were employed in attempts to reach all groups.
Dr. Robert Magee
Temple Baptist
Ruston Louisiana
Donated by: Temple Baptist, Ruston
He was pastor, Temple Baptist Church, Ruston, LA (1964-1998).
Nellie Malone
BNF 2015
Donated by: Louisiana BNF
Betty Marsh
Walker Baptist
Donated by: Walker Baptist Church WMU
She has been an influence on many young children and women as WMU Director, GA Leader and Sunday School teacher at Walker Baptist for 45 years.
Drue Martin
FBC Baptist Bunkie
Donated by: FBC Bunkie
Herbert Martin
Mission Leader
Donated by: Franklin Avenue Baptist Church
He passionately served in mission at Franklin Avenue for over 25 years. He is an outstanding missionary living the Great Commission.
Charlie & Juanita Massey
FBC Zachary
Donated by: Jerry Love
They have been active members of FBC Zachary since the late 1950’s. Juanita served in the adult choir ministry and taught all ages in Sunday School for many years. She continues to faithfully teach an adult ladies Sunday School class. Charlie has served as church treasurer, deacon and on many key committees. They have been part of church building teams in the northwest US and still are active in Literacy Missions in South Texas.
Steve Masters
BCM Director
LSU
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Served as a BSU Director in Arkansas and Oklahoma from 1981 to 1991. Served as the BCM Director at LSU since 1991. Served as Interim Student Minister and Pastor. Husband to Pam Fowler Masters. Father of Michelle, Danielle, and Lindsay. Have three son-in-laws and eight grandchildren.
J.F. McClelland
1st Evangelism Dir
1950
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
In 1941, the convention created the Department of Rural Evangelism and McLelland served as its first director. This position later became the office of Evangelism Director in 1950. McLelland had served as a pastor of Enon Church in Washington before working with the convention.
Chad McClurg
BCM Director
ULM
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Chad has worked with collegiate students in Georgia and Louisiana since 2005. He has served on the National Collegiate Ministry BC-Net committee and Collegiate Week Planning committee. Oversaw remodel and construction of two BCM facilities. He has served as interim pastor in Louisiana and is an active member in local churches throughout life.
Marjorie McCullough
SBC Missionary IMB
President WMU/SBC 86-91
Donated by: Janet Hoffman
She was Louisiana WMU Young People’s Leader/Secretary (1951-955); appointed as a missionary to Nigeria in 1955; and later served in Brazil. After serving as state president of Tennessee WMU, she returned to live in Louisiana again. She was beloved as president of WMU, SBC from 1986-1991.
Dr. Gibbie McMillan
Men’s Ministries
LA Bapt Convention
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Matt Middlecamp
BCM Director
Southeastern LA Univ
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Matt has had the privilege of working with collegiate students in Arkansas, Mississippi and Louisiana since 2003, by discipling students, leading mission teams and equipping leaders to serve in and through the local church. He has also served in church staff positions and have always been an active member in local churches throughout my life. He is married to Jacquelyn Loyd Middlecamp and father to Deacon and Kenyan.
Dr. James W. Middleton
Pastor FBC Shreveport 1952-1974
Donated by: Lois Rowe
He guided the relocation of FBC to its present location on Ockley Drive.
Mignon McDonald, Lottie Knox, Essie Raxsdale
Donated by: Homewood Baptist Church WMU
These three ladies were charter members of Homewood and served in several capacities for many years.
Emmett Dale Miller
Diamond Baptist
DeRidder 1979-2014
Donated by: Diamond Baptist Church
He served as pastor of Diamond Baptist Church for 35 years. Served as a home missionary in New Orleans, LA and Hagerstown, MD. Trustee at Dry Creek Baptist Camp; teacher at United Theological Seminary for 12 years.
Herman B. Mitchell Sr.
Hope Community
1937-2002
Donated by: Leisha Mitchell
He was pastor of New Hope Community Church (1937-2002).
Mark B. Mitchell
New Hope Community
Pastor 1991
Donated by: Leisha Mitchell
Margaret Mobley
FBC Lafayette
Donated by: Edward & Linda Junk
She was very active in WMU at FBC Lafayette. She donated her home for a missionary house after her husband died and she moved to Texas.
Rev Dwayne Monk
New Hope Baptist
1999
Donated by: New Hope Baptist Church
He served as pastor of New Hope Baptist Church since 1999. He wears so many hats that no one could ever count them. He preaches and stands firm on “God’s Word” and cares for his flock in any and every way needed. He serves faithfully on the associational and state levels. He is very mission-minded, and reminds his congregation that we are all serving on a mission field in our communities.
Lane Moore
Northwest Association
Donated by: Northwest Baptist Association
He is current Director of Missions, Northwest Baptist Association
Hellen Pray Morris
FBC Kentwood
1928-2015
Donated by: Joey Miller
She was a beloved WMU Director of FBC Kentwood; dedicated Sunday School teacher; great supporter of missions; Faithful servant of the Lord.
Marty Morris
GA Leader 1985-2014
FBC Amite, LA
Donated by: Laura Clemons
She served as a dedicated GA leader for 29 years at FBC Amite. She also served as Sunday School and Mission Friends teacher.
Mount Nebo
Early Church
January 31, 1813
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Within months of the organization of the first two churches in Louisiana, the third church was already being established along the Tangipahoa River, just east of Roseland, LA. On January 31, 1813, the church was officially begun. Today Mount Nebo is the second oldest existing church in our state and has had uninterrupted ministry since that time.
Mt. Olive WMU
Donated by: Carolyn Christian
David & Rose Noblit
Donated by: Jimmy & Marion Noblit
Jimmy Noblit
Constr. Volunteer 2015-2016
Donated by: Jeff & Dana Draughn
Jimmy Noblit
Constr. Volunteer
2015-2016
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Jimmy Noblit is a longtime member of Calvary Baptist Church in Alexandria. He came nearly every day to serve during the construction of the Georgia Barnette building at Tall Timbers.
Carolyn Norris
WMU, Jackson Parish
2003-Present
Donated by:Jackson Parish WMU Association
She served as the OCC Relay Co-Ordinator, 2003-17. During that time, Carolyn faithfully served her WMU Association as Treasurer from Oct.,2005-Jan.,2020. Because of her love & dedication to serve through OCC, she was honored to be invited by Franklin Graham’s Samaritan’s Purse to deliver Christmas shoeboxes to children in Togo, AFRICA in 2017. Her passion for missions in our community has positively moved other’s to serve Christ.
North Rapides Association
WMU
Donated by: North Rapides Assoc WMU
We have decided to make a donation from our association without naming any names because we have several ladies who have made such an impact in missions. Ann Hyatt served as our director for many years. Beverly O’Reagan served as an IMB missionary, state president of WMU, as well as state committees and associational offices. Linda Canady served as an IMB missionary and is currently associational co-director. The list goes on… So we hope this can be done. Until the whole world hears…
Oak Grove Baptist Church
Donated by: Sue Nation
Bobbie Odom
William Wallace WMU
Donated by: James Odom
She is William Wallace Associational WMU leader, 25 years; Mission Friends leader, GA leader, WMU leader.
Nell Redden Odom
FBC West Monroe
1991-2008
Donated by: Joy Regan
She served as WMU Director; worked in Friends and Neighbors Club, Thrift Store, Church Kitchen, Mission Committee, Kid’s Hope and Awana. She supported missions through prayer and giving.
Corey J Olivier
BCM Director
New Orleans Metro
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Corey leads Louisiana Baptist’s Baptist Collegiate Ministry in the metro New Orleans area.
Ezekiel O’Quin
Early Pastor
1781-1824
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Beulah Baptist Church in Cheneyville was constituted on March 25, 1816 by Joseph Willis and Ezekiel O’Quin. It was the second church established west of the Mississippi River. O’Quin became the first pastor of the church and served until his death in 1824. He was elected the first moderator of the first constituted association, Louisiana Association, in 1818.
Daniel & Beverly O’Reagan
Donated by: FBC Pineville
They served as IMB missionaries to Japan from 1964-1981. He served as a church planter and she served through English classes, cooking classes, and as a hostess on Television Variety Program.
Gaye Lynn Ortis
Calvary Baptist GA
Donated by: Calvary Baptist WMU, Alexandria
She was GA Director at Calvary Baptist church, Alexandria for 31 years.
Dr. J. Norris Palmer
FBC Baton Rouge
1933-1971
Donated by: Jim & Kathleen Carroll
He was pastor of FBC Baton Rouge for 38 years. He served twice as president of Louisiana Baptist Convention. He served on the Southern Baptist Convention Executive Committee for 8 years, the Sunday School Board for 17 years, and the Foreign Mission Board for six years. He and his wife, Margaret, have made their mark as a working husband and wife team.
Wallace B. Palmer
Donated by: First Baptist, Leesville
He came to First Baptist Church of Leesville in 1975. As of the placement of this brick, Bro. Palmer is the longest tenured pastor of First Baptist Church of Leesville which began in 1898. He served the church for just over 25 years and became dearly loved as he consistently preached strong biblical messages, ministered to the sick, performed marriages and officiated funerals for generations of Leesville residents. In addition, his sweet wife Beverly, worked devotedly in many areas, including homebound ministry.
Julia Ann Parker
Mission Leader
Donated by: John & Jane Texada
She has been a missionary and dedicated mission leader in Texas and Louisiana. Mission field involvement includes FBC Boyce; FBC Orangefield where she was commissioned as a missionary to Angle Baptist Church, London, England; North Orange Baptist where she was commissioned as a Mission Service Corps missionary by NAMB; and associational leader. Today she is active and an invaluable role model at Calvary Baptist, Alexandria.
Rev. Bruce Parrish
DOM Northwest Association
1983-1998
Donated by: Northwest Baptist Association
He is a retired Director of Missions, Northwest Baptist Association (1983-1998).
William E. Paxton
Baptist Historian
1825-1883
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Historical writer of the first Louisiana Baptist history entitled, “A History of the Baptists of Louisiana”. Paxton was a powerful preacher and associate editor of the “Louisiana Baptist” paper. In 1860, Paxton organized the Louisiana Baptist Historical Society to “collect and preserve the materials for the history of the Baptists of Louisiana.” He led the society and wrote the first history of Louisiana Baptists.
Oneida Paulk
WMU/Acteens Leader
She was an Acteens leader at Unity Baptist; Associational Acteens director for North Rapides Association; Acteens Resource for the state of Louisiana; WMU director at Holloway Baptist for the past 16 years.
Ree Pearce
Temple, Ruston
Donated by: Temple Baptist, Ruston
She was WMU President, Temple Baptist Church, Ruston, LA.
Lila G. Pennebaker
William Wallace WMU
Donated by: Judith Pennebaker Pardue
She was instrumental in the beginning of associational WMU in William Wallace Association.
Loretta Peoples
Pianist FBC Wisner
Donated by: Dorothy Young
She has played the piano for worship services at First Baptist, Wisner since 1991. She is director for the children’s choir and also WMU director. She directs the special activities for the church and is very active in the community.
Thomas Peoples
Pastor FBC Wisner
Donated by: Dorothy Young
He has been pastor of FBC Wisner since 1991. He led the church through rebuilding after the church building burned. He is an evangelical preacher, and has a heart for people. He is involved in the community and is very mission-minded.
Doris Taylor Perkins
Homewood Baptist
60+ Years
Donated by: Homewood Baptist Church WMU
Mrs. Doris, a charter member of Homewood Baptist Church, has served over 60 years in leadership and ministry during her lifetime commitment to Homewood.
Bernadette A. Phares
WMU Director
Donated by: Don & Lanie Phares
She served and started WMU at Feliciana Baptist in Clinton. She was faithful in prayer and giving until the end of her life.
June Pittman
Mission Leader
Donated by: Franklin Avenue Baptist Church
She fervently served God at Franklin Avenue Baptist for over 25 years, spreading the word of God and serving the needs of people around the world through missions.
J L Pollard
30 years of service
LBC Sunday School
Donated by: Joyce Barnes
He was State Sunday School Director of Louisiana Baptist Convention (mid 1950’s-1980’s). He was very involved in helping mission churches with Sunday School work. He served Louisiana Baptists for 30 years.
J L Pollard
Loved & Esteemed Dad
Donated by: Rosejoy Stagg
Pastor Jerry Poston
1924-2013
Donated by: Jeff Cook
He served as pastor of Sandy Bayou Baptist, Columbia; Friendship Baptist, Jonesboro; Midway Baptist, Jena; Parkview Baptist, Metairie; Woolford Memorial Baptist, Baltimore, MD; Southside Baptist, Blakely, GA; and FBC Mandeville. He served simultaneously as Director of Missions with Two Rivers, William Wallace and Washington Associations.
Ruth Potts
WMU President
Temple Ruston
Donated by: Temple Baptist, Ruston
She was WMU President, Temple Baptist Church, Ruston, LA.
Wallace Primeaux, Jr.
Donated by: Anonymous
Jo L Purvis
Charles R Purvis Sr
WMU Leader & Pastor
Donated by: Washington Baptist Association WMU
They served the Lord all of their lives and were active members of Superior Avenue Baptist Church, Bogalusa. They served churches in Louisiana, Mississippi, California, and Oregon. They served several churches in Washington Baptist Association: Westside Emmanuel, Plainview, and Superior Avenue. Mrs. Jo Purvis served as Washington Baptist Associational WMU Director.
Essie Raxsdale, Lottie Knox, Mignon McDonald
Donated by: Homewood Baptist Church WMU
These three ladies were charter members of Homewood and served in several capacities for many years.
Martha Reichert
Concord Union WMU
Donated by: Concord Union Baptist Association
She was Concord Union South Associational WMU Director for more than 10 years.
Martha Reichert
New Hope Baptist
Donated by: New Hope Baptist Church
She served 40 years in New Hope Baptist Church in many areas of service, however, her main love was WMU. She served many years as WMU director and Associational WMU Director for Concord Union South. She served on committees and other positions in state WMU.
Edmond J. Reis
Early Missionary
1812
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Reis was the first evangelical missionary in New Orleans. He was born in Paris, France and moved to Nova Scotia before coming to New Orleans in 1812. He was able to preach in French to the residents in 1813, but had little visible effect.
Hannah E. Reynolds
WMU leader
1930-1954
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
As secretary of WMU for 25 years, Reynolds was instrumental in promoting Woman’s Missionary Union among African-American women, creating a Royal Ambassador position and establishing 50 scholarships in 1955.
Arvin Rivers
FBC Westlake
50 years of service
Donated by: Wayne McEntire
He served 50 plus years as Sunday School director, FBC Westlake.
H. M. Roach
Pastor
Pisgah Baptist
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Wayne & Bobbie Roberts
Serving since 1948
Donated by: Woodsprings Baptist Church
They have served at Woodsprings Baptist since 2007. He served in other churches prior: Westbrook Baptist, Bethel Baptist, Pinecroft Baptist, Barron Road Baptist, Ferry Lake Baptist, and FBC Oil City.
Dr. Bill Robertson
Pastoral Leadership
LA Bapt Convention
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Pastored for 36 years, employed with LBC May 21, 2007 and retired in November 2019; LBC preacher of the year 1997. LMCF Preacher of the year 2007, LBC President 2005-2007.
Mark Robinson
State BCM Director
LA Bapt Convention
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Rocky Springs Baptist Church
Started 1845
Donated by: Rocky Springs Baptist Church
This church was founded in 1845 by a small group of people near Lisbon. It was named after nearby springs and the many rocks that filled the ground. Charter members were: Mr. & Mrs. Elijah Sparks, Mr. & Mrs. Ambrose Wise, Mr. & Mrs. Aaron Nolan, Moses Oakes, Billy White, and Rev. R.F. Fancher.
Josephine S. Rodgers
Ridge Avenue Baptist
Donated by: Teri Fontenot
She has served in WMU since the early 1960’s at Ridge Avenue Baptist guiding her children through Sunbeams, GA’s and Acteens and taking leadership roles in the women’s groups as well. She has been active in associational, state, national and international mission’s emphases. She remains active in WMU with over 50 years of service.
Irene Rogillio
FBC Jackson 50 years
Donated by: Henry & Bryon Rogillio
She was active in WMU and mission projects at FBC Jackson for 50 years.
Kirby Rowe, Jr.
FBC Shreveport
Church Leader
Donated by: Lois Rowe
He served as Chairman of Deacons, taught Sunday School and chaired numerous other church projects at FBC Shreveport.
Joey & Pam Rudisill
Wilda Baptist
1993
Donated by: Wilda Baptist Church
He is pastor of Wilda Baptist 1993-present.
Perry R. Sanders
FBC Lafayette
1959-2006
Donated by: FBC Lafayette
Dr. Perry Sanders served First Baptist, Lafayette, from 1959 until his retirement in 2006. He previously served churches in other Louisiana cities including Baton Rouge and Jennings.
Born in South Carolina, he came to Louisiana to attend New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. In addition to his service to local churches, he served two terms as president of the Louisiana Baptist Convention, both the Foreign and Home Mission Boards of the Southern Baptist Convention, and chaired the Southern baptist Convention Committee on Committees.
A frequent speaker at Baptist Conventions and Evangelistic Conferences nationwide, he brought the closing message to the annual meeting of the Southern Baptist Convention in 1981.
Leonard Sanderson
Evangelism Dir.
1914-2005
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Dr. Sanderson served as Director of Evangelism for Louisiana Baptists from 1968-1982. Prior to his service in Louisiana, he served Tennessee Baptists as State Evangelism Director and the Home Mission Board as secretary of Evangelism. During that time, he authored many books on evangelism and led the state and nation in some of its most successful years of church- based evangelism.
Burnie Schmidt
Plank Road Baptist
Donated by: Plank Road Baptist Church
Faithful and beloved pastor for 18 years.
Carlos Schmidt
Church Planting
LA Bapt Convention
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Dan & Susan Schnarsky
VMM Volunteers
Donated by: Dan & Susan Schnarsky
Dan and Susan are part of Volunteer Mobile Missionaries who dedicate their time to service projects at various Christian camps and facilities across the country. They travel with others in their group living in their RV’s. Dan and Susan have had a hand in many construction projects at Tall Timbers over the years including many of our new cabins and this Georgia barnette building. Wisconsin is home for the Schnarskys.
Betsy Scoggins
FBC Leesville
Donated by: Craig Forque
She, Linda Elizabeth “Betsy” May Scoggins, was the daughter of Clark & AJ May. She grew up attending FBC Leesville where at the young age of 11, she began filling in on the piano and organ. Over the years, her musical abilities were used not only on instruments but in working with children and youth choirs. Betsy married Don Scoggins and they were blessed with two daughters, Susan and Linda (Dandy). Betsy passed away on April 21, 2016.
Nelda Seal
State & Local WMU
30 years of service
Donated by: Calvary Baptist WMU, Alexandria
Thirty years of service to the Lord’s work through WMU in state and local work.
Nelda C. Seal
State WMU President and Director
Donated by: Janet Hoffman
She is a gifted speaker and conference leader in Louisiana WMU for decades. She led Louisiana WMU for a total of 22 years – as State President twice (1985-1986 and 2003-2007) and as Executive Director three times (1986-1996; 1998-2001; 2002-2003). After retiring, she continued to use her gifts, serving as interim director of WMU of Texas for two years and as a speaker often invited to Louisiana Baptist churches.
Loy Seal
LBC RA Director
Donated by: RA Congress offering
He grew up as an RA, memorizing 2 Corinthians 5:20, “…ambassadors for Christ” and learning to live that challenge. It guided the way he taught his sons and was his goal in the churches he served as minister of education. It prepared him for service with Louisiana Baptists (2000-2005). Equipping men to lead boys to become men of God, engaging them in missions from Bible study to community missions to disaster relief was his goal.
Naida Sexton
Trinity Heights WMU
Donated by: Trinity Heights WMU
She served more than 30 years as WMU Director at Trinity Heights Baptist, Shreveport. She led the WMU in many mission projects and in mission’s education. Her legacy continues at Trinity Heights Baptist.
John Fogleman Shaw
State Missionary
1827-1908
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
He was a teacher that became Baptist through an independent study of the Bible and was licensed to preach in 1883 by the Bayou Chicot Church in Ville Platte. He served as convention missionary from 1887-1993. He died in Ville Platte and is buried in the Baptist Cemetery there.
Wayne J. Sheppard
Partnership Missions
LA Bapt Convention
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Wayne J. Sheppard served the Louisiana Baptist Convention from 2008 to 2017. He began as the Partnership Missions Strategist in the Missions and Ministry Division. Wayne was promoted into the Executive Office January 2011, where he would continue to serve as Director of Partnership Missions, but also be the liaison to the Associational Directors of Missions in Louisiana, as well assisting the Executive Director of LBC.
Dr. Sheppard created Partnership Missions for LBC to help Louisiana Baptist churches be fully engaged in Acts 1:8 missions, from local to global, working with NAMB and IMB. Wayne created People Group Networks, helping churches and associations engage a specific people to plant the Gospel for Kingdom growth. One specific accomplishment has been the Haiti Network, establishing a long term impact of Louisiana Baptists in Haiti.
Wayne has been married to Paula since 1972. They have two married sons and 9 grandchildren. God has granted their lifetime goal of the Sheppard name establishing a legacy of faith in Christ.
Conan Sherlin
BCM Director
Nicholls State Univ.
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Originally from Appalachia, he has worked with college students in California, Tennessee, Virginia, and now in Louisiana. He has also served overseas for 2+ years in Asia through the IMB. Graduate from Golden Gate Seminary. Husband to Christy Sherlin and father to Evie, Ada, Haddie, and Gilford. Lifelong SBC supporter.
Aubrey Short
Evangelism Dir.
1953-1954
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Margaret Sledge
Church & Associational WMU
FBC Arcadia
Donated by: Bienville Baptist Association WMU
She was the WMU leader for many, many years. This is something that she would be proud of and have a passion for.
Connie & Linda Smith
Fellowship Baptist
Dubach LA
Donated by: Fellowship Baptist Church
He has been pastor of Fellowship Baptist for 10 years. The congregation has grown. She works faithfully by his side.
John T. Smith
Chatham Baptist
1910-1923
Donated by: FBC Chatham
This church was organized in 1910 with a charter membership of 10 to 12 people under the leadership of Rev. John T. Smith who became the church’s first pastor. The church met in a one-room wood building used jointly by three Methodist groups. He remained as pastor for several years and returned as pastor from 1921-1923. At this time, he had to push a straight back chair in front of him to walk and sat in the chair to preach. He served until his health forced his retirement.
Phyllis R. Smith
Donated by: Bienville, Webster-Claiborne Baptist Associations
She is ministry assistant to Bienville and Webster-Claiborne Baptist Associations from 1997 to present. She has served with two Director of Missions. She is known for compassion and dedication to the Lord and to the churches.
R. Houston Smith
Donated by: FBC Pineville
During his pastorate, he baptized an average of 75 converts annually, and the church received an average of 286 new members annually. He also served on various Louisiana Baptist Convention boards during his ministry. He was LBC President in 1957.
William L. Smith
Pastor – LBC
Isaiah 40:31
Donated by: Lakeshore Baptist Church
He was a faithful servant of God. He graduated from Louisiana College in 1968 and New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary in 1970. He pastored Zion Baptist in Georgetown, 1966-1977; Pastored Lakeshore Baptist, Monroe, 1977 to present. He was a trustee of Louisiana Baptist Children’s Home, 2010-2016; Board Chairman, 2015-2016. He is married to Luna Livingston Smith. Their children are Christy Smith Hart & Matthew Smith. Grandsons are Will & Wes Dunham and Carter Smith. His parents were C.T. & Enid Smith
Adolphe Stagg
State Missionary
1834-1914
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Born in 1834 as a Catholic Creole, he converted in 1872 and became a missionary among the French in 1873. Stagg is responsible for starting many churches in South Louisiana.
Ordained to the ministry in 1872, he was known throughout the French parishes for founding numerous churches. Stagg was a convention missionary starting 1876 for two decades in French Missions.
Alice Stinebaugh
Calvary Alexandria
Donated by: Calvary Baptist WMU, Alexandria
She was active in WMU at Calvary, Alexandria for many years. She was an excellent Bible teacher and prayer warrior. She was an evangelistic soul winner, always seeking to lead people to Christ. She is also a published author.
Gwen Stout
Mission Leader
FBC Eunice
Donated by: FBC Eunice
She was a faithful Missions Leader, FBC Eunice.
Sunlight Baptist
Franklinton Est. 1928
Donated by: Sunlight Baptist Church
This church was established in 1928. They are dedicated to carrying out the Great Commission.
Pastor Royce Sylvest
Houston River BC
Sulphur 1968-1996
Donated by: Houston River Baptist Women on Mission
Bro. Royce Sylvest was a faithful servant and beloved shepherd to the Houston River Baptist Church flock for 28 years. He held various Association and State positions but cherished his time serving as trustee for the La. Children’s Home in the mid 90’s when building programs occurred. His lifelong devotion, compassion and commitment to missions started at an early age-Ms. Sylvest said his Mother took him to WMU meetings where at age 6 he stood on a stump and sang hymns for the women in attendance. Today at HRBC one of the core strengths is missional focus attributable to Bro. Sylvest’s foundational leadership.
Nadine Tarver
Ebenezer Women of Hope
60+ Yrs of Service
Donated by: Ebenezer Women of Hope c/o Carolyn Norris
She has been involved in missions for 60 years. She was a GA Leader, Sunday School teacher, and VBS teacher. She was a faithful WMU leader serving as WMU Director of Bethel Baptist and Ebenezer Baptist. She also served as Morehouse Associational WMU secretary.
Bill & Joyce Temple
GBCC Construction
2015-2016
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Bill and Joyce Temple have served for many years with the Baptist Builders organization, who volunteer their time and construction expertise to new church builds and renovations. Bill and Joyce specifically were project managers for the Georgia Barnette Conference Center at Tall Timbers, and were here working from day 1 until completion. They are true servants to the Lord.
Jason Thomas
BCM Director
Southern Univ BR
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Gloria Faye Tison
Esler Baptist Church
1960-1998
Donated by: Melvin & Kevin Tison
She grew up at Esler Baptist, her beloved home church. She was baptized, married and celebrated her 50th wedding anniversary there, just before her diagnosis with cancer. She was a humble and dedicated leader in WMU, VBS, missions, Sunday School, and more. She was loved by so many and will be missed, but her impact will remain in eternity. A true, lifelong servant of Christ in both word and deed.
Gloria Faye Tison
Grace Baptist Church
2006-2015
Donated by: Jennifer Pierce
She was more than a charter member of Grace Baptist. She was a true model to all who knew her of what a servant of Christ should be. Her love for her Savior was so evident in her life. Faye served as a teacher and mentor for missions, children programs, new believers, and so much more. What a blessing she was to us and words can’t express how much Mamaw Frye will be missed at Grace and all who loved her.
Charles W. Tomkies
1st Conv. Secretary
1848-1907
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Served as the first Secretary of the Convention, 1886-1890. According to historian, Glen Lee Greene, “An almost universal revival and news of conversions came from one end of the state to the other.” Tomkies was also president of Keachie College in 1889 after resigning as secretary of the convention.
Carlton Townsend
Const. Volunteer
2015-2016
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
A faithful member of Calvary Baptist Church in Alexandria, Carlton came as a construction volunteer nearly every day from the beginning of construction on the Georgia Barnette building at Tall Timbers until its completion in 2015 and 2016. He is fondly thought of for his great attitude, hard work, and for coming to work everyday in fishing shirt and shorts!
Cindy Townsend
2003-2006
State WMU Director
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Dr. & Mrs. James Trimble
Temple Ruston
Donated by: Temple Baptist Church, Ruston
They were Foreign Mission Board missionaries to the Middle East (1961-1991).
I. P. Trotter
State Missionary
1881-1882
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
While serving as missionary to the convention, Trotter organized the Alexandria-Pineville Baptist Church in 1881 in Pineville. In 1893, the churched moved to Alexandria and its name changed to Emmanuel.
Betty Wells Van Asselberg
Donated by: John & Jane Texada
She began to teach the Sunbeam children as a senior in high school. Later in life, she worked with the children in Sunday School and GA’s for many years at Calvary Baptist, Alexandria. She has worked with many loving ladies in WMU, helping many people in need. She continually develops phenominal mission projects.
Artie S. Varnado
FBC Jackson WMU
Donated by: Bobbie Odom
She was a dedicated GA and WMU leader for 40 years at FBC Jackson.
Shelba Walsworth
WMU Director
Jackson Association 12 yr
Donated by: Caney Lake Baptist WMU
She was director of Jackson Parish WMU and was a very special and giving person. She served 12 years.
Connie Ward
Bienville Concord Union Web-Claiborne
Donated by: Concord Union, Bienville, Webster-Claiborne Baptist Associations
He was Director of Missions for Concord Union, Bienville and Webster-Claiborne
Baptist Associations (1996-2003).
Edwin O. Ware
Founder of LC
1853-1933
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
In 1888, Ware settled in Cheneyville and served as missionary to the convention. He established numerous churches and was elected president of the convention in 1892 and in 1922 for 2 years. In 1892, served as Secretary for 14 years, founded (1906) and served as first President of Louisiana College in 1908. He also owner and publisher of the Baptist Message before the convention acquired it in 1919.
Dr. Ralph Webber
Pastor Teacher DOM
65 years
Donated by: Ouachita Baptist Association
He was Director of Missions, Ouachita Baptist Association (1981-1997). He surrendered to the call to preach at the age of 15. He pastored churches, was interim pastor, and supply pastor during the years of 1950-2015.
Carolyn Weber
Donated by: FBC Pineville
She has been a member of FBC Pineville since 1964. She has served on several committees and she volunteers at Main Street Baptist Mission and Manna House. She is also active in Women on Mission and has been the chairman FBC Pineville’s missionary residence since 2000.
Dr. Jack & Becky West
Holloway Baptist
1985-2016 31 Years
Donated by: Holloway Baptist Church
Rev. William & Blanche Wester
Donated by: FBC Crowville
There were foreign missionaries for over 30 years. They worked in FBC Crowville for 20 years. They served in local RA & GA Camps. They encouraged all types of mission work in Louisiana after retirement.
Jennie Belle White
Founded Ouachita Breadcrumb Mission
Donated by: Ouachita Baptist Association WMU
She founded the Ouachita Baptist Association’s Breadcrumb Mission Center in 1985. Her objective was to serve those in need with food, clothing, tutoring, seminary classes and the gospel of Christ.
Sam White
Director
Tall Timbers
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Sam White was born in Arcadia, Louisiana. He grew up in Bienville, Louisiana, and graduated from Bienville High School. He attended Louisiana Tech University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree.
After college, he entered the US Air Force as a second lieutenant. While in the Air Force, he completed his Master of Science degree in Management from Troy University, Alabama. He retired from the Air Force in 1995 at the rank of lieutenant colonel.
Upon retirement from the Air Force, Sam worked at Shocco Springs Baptist Conference Center from 1995 to 2001 as Properties Manager and then as Associate Director.
Sam assumed the role of Director at Tall Timbers Baptist Conference Center in 2001 where he served until his retirement in 2017. He was instrumental in the growth of summer camps and in the completion of the Georgia Barnette building.
Earl & Jane Williams
IMB Missionaries
1968-1998
Donated by: Joel, Susan, Timothy, Pamela & Kenneth Williams
They served faithfully as IMB Missionaries to Liberia, West Africa for 30 years. They saw an amazing responsiveness to the Gospel with thousands saved during their ministry. Over a hundred churches across Nimba County give testimony to their faithfulness. So many pastors and church leaders today identify Earl and Jane as their spiritual parents. They were faithful to God, to one another, and to their family.
Gwen Williams
Mission Leader
Donated by: Franklin Avenue Baptist Church
She is known as “Ms. Chocolate” and is an example of what a Christian should be, serving Franklin Avenue Baptist for over 20 years. She has a heart for missions and storytelling. Her most outstanding gift is communicating the love of God through word and deed.
Huey J. Williams
FBC Leesville
Donated by: Craig Forque
He was a native of Hornbeck, which he lovingly referred to as “The Holy Land”. After attending seminary in New Orleans and serving for several years on staff at FBC Westlake, he returned to Vernon parish in 1970 becoming Minister of Music and Youth at FBC Leesville (later Music and Outreach Minister). He was known for having full, robust, worshipful choirs and was characterized by his loving heart and compassionate hospital visits. He was a founding member of the Singing Ministers. He passed away in 1993 and was survived by his wife Pat, and sons J and Jonathon and daughter Denise Campbell.
Joseph Willis
Church Planter
1758-1854
Donated by: FBC Pineville
Willis preached the first Baptist sermon west of the Mississippi River in Vermillion/Lafayette area in 1804. He also started the first Baptist church on this side of the mighty river in 1812. Willis was a South Carolinian who fought in the American Revolution and pressed the gospel into the Louisiana territory west of the Mississippi River before anyone else. He started churches as far north as present day.
Janie Wise
State WMU Leader
Donated by: Janet Hoffman
She came from New Mexico to serve as Louisiana WMU Acteens/Baptist Young Women Director (1988-1992), as Missions Friends/Girls in Action/Acteens Director (1992-2007), and as Women’s Missions & Ministry Strategist (2007-present). She is an excellent planner and promoter. She has spent much time and effort to ensure the success of the Georgia Barnette Conference Center project for training the next generation.
Janie R. Wise
Donated by: FBC Pineville
Leadership with LA WMU, beginning with Acteens/BYW, stretching to Mission Friends and GA and becoming Women’s Missions & Ministry Strategist in April 2007 is what brought her to Louisiana. Church leadership with Mission Friends at FBC Pineville and Acteens and GA at Emmanuel Baptist, Alexandria are personal joys. The overall joy for Janie is that of the “becoming” – to encourage and equip children, teens, and women as they become Kingdom leaders in their churches, as missionaries, and raising children who know and serve the Lord Jesus Christ.
Janie R Wise
State WMU Director
Donated by: Herman & Mary Callais
She is dedicated to missions. She is a dear friend and close to our hearts. We can always count on her for any kind of need.
Janie R Wise
WMU Leader
LA Bapt Convention
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Janie stepped in to the role as Women’s Missions and Ministry strategist in April 2007, having served Louisiana Baptists’ in WMU age-level leadership roles since 1988. The desire to engage women, teens and children of all generations and all culture groups motivates her service in both WMU and women’s ministry.
Herman Wilkinson, Sr.
Walker Baptist
Served 36 years
Donated by: Walker Baptist Church WMU
He served Walker Baptist as a faithful pastor, Bible teacher, and community leader for 36 years.
Verna Jean Williams
WMU Leader
22 years of service
Donated by: Billy, Danny & Guy Williams
She was an active member of WMU her entire adult life. She served as associational WMU Director for Sabine Association for 12 years and Deer Creek Association for 10 years. She dedicated her life to promoting and bringing attention to mission fields and the people serving in those fields.
Joe Wood
BCM Director
ULL
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Robert Woods
Mission Builder
LA Bapt Convention
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Thomas Worsham
BCM Director
Louisiana College
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Florence H. Wray
FBC Shreveport
1919-2008
Donated by: Lois Rowe
She was a dedicated Sunday School teacher and President of WMU at FBC Shreveport.
Lance Wright
BCM Director
Grambling State Univ
Donated by: Louisiana Baptists
Dr. & Mrs. James Young
Temple Ruston
Donated by: Temple Baptist Church, Ruston
They were Foreign Mission Board missionaries to the Middle East (1954-1987).
