Biographies K
November 23, 2020
Biographies M
November 23, 2020

Biographies L

 DONALD J. LaBELLE

Donald J. LaBelle served as pastor of Wright Baptist Church, Fort Walton Beach.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JIMMY LaBELLO

Jimmy LaBello serves as pastor of Big Coppitt First Baptist Church. He and his wife, Dawn have three sons.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

PAUL D. LACK

Paul D. Lack (1926-2015) was born in Ridgely, TN. Lack attended Stetson University, Deland, FL and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, TX. He pastored churches in Michigan, North Carolina, and Florida including Polk City and Riverbend Baptist Church, Ormond Beach, Florida. Lack and his wife Jane were married for 67 years.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

WILLIE LACKS

Willie Lacks served as pastor Blackwater Baptist Mission, 1967-1969.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JOHN B. LACY

John B. Lacy (June 1793-February 1878) was born in Virginia. His father was Archibald Lacy of Virginia. He and his family moved to Waven County, Georgia, after John was born. In 1812 Lacy joined the Army and in 1820 he married Martha Freeman of Baldwin County, Georgia. In 1824 they moved to Newton County, Georgia. He was converted and united with the Baptist Church at Holly Springs after being baptized by Rev. Cyrus White. He soon felt the call to preach, and moved with his family to Thomas County, Georgia in 1830. He supplied churches in the Cherokee County area from 1840-1845. He then moved back to Thomas County. He also labored in the Florida counties of Jefferson, Madison, Leon, and Gadsden.

Secondary Source:
History of the Baptist Denomination in Georgia Compendium, 1881,
pp. 313-314.

SAMUEL LACY

Samuel Lacy served as pastor of Key Baptist Mission (now First Baptist Church, Islamorada) and First Baptist Church, Key Largo, 1955-1956.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

WILLIAM B. LACY

William B. Lacy was pastor at Greenwood and Campbellton in 1859 and 1860.

Secondary Source:
West Florida Baptist Association Minutes, 1859, 1860.

VELCIE C. LADD

Velcie C. Ladd (1907-1987) was born in Putnam County, Ohio, the son of Andrew Jackson and Katherine Elizabeth Harter Ladd. He graduated from Moody Bible Institute, Chicago and attended the Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky. Ladd served as pastor of churches in South Carolina and Florida, including First Baptist Church, Conway, 1961-1964 and First Baptist Church, Lake Mary. He and his wife, Mildred Holmes Ladd had two children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

ROBERT E. LAFAVRE

Robert E. LaFavre was born in Hollywood, Florida and died in DeFuniak Springs in 2015. He served as pastor, associate pastor, editor, director of missions, and officer in various denominational organizations. LaFavre served as pastor in Alabama, Georgia and First Baptist Church, Mossy Head, Florida. He served as editor of the Georgia Christian Index and DOM of Walton County Baptist Association. He and his wife Sabra Ann Brooks had three daughters; Deborah, Karen and Mary Jane.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

GARY EUGENE LAIRD

Gary Eugene Laird (1957-2010) was born in Crestview, Florida, the son of Norman and Sue Laird. He graduated from the University of Mobile and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Laird served as pastor of Avalon Baptist Church, Milton (1995-2010). He and his wife Debbie Howell Laird had three sons.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

J. R. LALLEMAND

J. R. Lallemand served as pastor of the English-speaking Haitian mission of Almighty’s Grace Sanctuary, Coral Springs.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

A. W. LAMAR

A. W. Lamar served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Inverness and First Baptist Church, Ocala.

Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, October 5, 1939, p. 6.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

CHARLES LAMB

Charles Lamb graduated from Louisiana College, Pineville, LA; Baptist Bible Institute, New Orleans, LA. He was ordained in 1927 by East Hill Baptist Church, Pensacola. Lamb served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Chattahoochee; Flat Creek Baptist Church, Quincy; and First Baptist Church, River Junction.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JACK LAMB

Jack Lamb (1911-1984) was a native of Madison County, Florida. He served as pastor of churches in Suwannee, Madison, Taylor and Lafayette counties and Brooks County, Georgia, including Orange Baptist Church, Live Oak, 1950-1952 and Hopewell Baptist Church where he served for nine years. Lamb and his wife, Sarah Alberta Lamb had five sons and five daughters.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JOHN B. LAMB

John B. Lamb (May 4, 1846-February 22, 1922) was the first pastor of Manatee Baptist Church of Christ. Lamb became pastor of Manatee Church located at Rye Post Office on August 10, 1888. Lamb was recognized in the Myakka City, Florida area as a pioneer pastor who helped organize a number of churches. He served as pastor of Friendship in Fruitville, Mitchelville, and Benevolence in Manatee County. John B. Lamb was born in Suwanee County, Florida, on May 4, 1846. He joined the Confederate army at age 16 and served throughout the war. He was baptized by J. H. Tompkins in 1867 and was ordained in 1875. He died February 22, 1922. Lamb was pastor of Concord, Rocky Hammock, Wekiva, and other churches in Levy County, Florida, from 1875-1881. Lamb married Mary Jones and they had three children; John, Jess, and Martha. Upon the death of Mary, John married Nancy Elizabeth Swaim and they had three daughters; Ruth, Nellie, Winnie and one son, Beatty.

Secondary Source:
Audrey O. Hendry. Bethany Baptist Church, Myakka City, Florida. A Century of Meeting and Preaching, pp. 7, 20-22.

M. B. LAMB

M. B. Lamb served as pastor of Flomich Baptist Church, 1960-1962.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

DEREK LAMBERT

Derek Lambert graduated from Leavell College in New Orleans and New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. Lambert served as pastor of First Baptist Church, High Springs and First Baptist Church, Sebring. He and his wife, Nichole, have two daughters.

Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, October 18, 2012.

HEATH LAMBERT

Heath Lambert graduated from Gordon College and the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Lambert began serving as pastor of First Baptist Church, Jacksonville in 2018. He and his wife Lauren have three children, Carson, Chloe and Connor.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

R. W. LAMBERT

R. W. Lambert served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Quincy.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

ROBERT F. LAMBERT

Robert F. Lambert (   -1975) was a native of Gadsden, Alabama. He attended the Baptist Bible Institute, Lakeland. Lambert was the founder of the First Baptist Church, Merritt Island where he was ordained and served for three years. He and his wife, Jo Anne Pickney Lambert had four children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

S. L. LAMBERT

S. L. Lambert served as pastor of Powelton Missionary Baptist Church (now Gonzalez Baptist Church) in 1897.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

T. L. LAMBERT

T. L. Lambert (   -1974) served as pastor of First Black Creek Baptist Church, Penney Farms.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

W. R. LAMBERT

W. R. Lambert (1883-1970) was ordained at First Baptist Church in Pensacola in 1901. He graduated from Southern Theological Seminary, TX. Lambert served churches in Alabama, Kentucky, Texas, South Carolina, Washington, Georgia, and Florida. In Florida Lambert served as pastor of Tenth Avenue in Pensacola, East Bay, Holley, Brooksville, Apopka, Winder Garden, First Baptist in West Palm Beach, First Baptist in Quincy, Gretna, Glen St. Mary, College Park in Orlando, Mt. Dora, First Baptist in Haines City and Flat Creek in Quincy. Lambert organized the Avondale Church in Jacksonville, and was pastor emeritus there at the time of his death. He organized the Florida Anti-saloon League in 1907.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, January 29, 1970, p. 8.

THOMAS WALTER LAMKIN

Thomas Walter Lamkin (1904-1944) was born in Kentucky and graduated from William Jewell College (B.A., 1931), and The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary (Th.M., 1937). Lamkin was ordained in 1924. He was pastor of Whitfield Memorial Baptist Church of Pensacola at the time of his death. He and his wife Ethel had two children, Lois and Robert.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, April 27, 1944, p. 3.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

LEWIS C. LAMPLEY

Lampley,-Lewis
Lewis C. Lampley (May 16, 1937- ) was born in Brundidge, Alabama. He was educated at Florida Beacon College and Tampa Bay Theological Seminary (M.A., 1990). He served as pastor of the Tabernacle Baptist Church in St. Petersburg for thirty years from 1966 to 1996. He and his wife, Geraldine, served faithfully in family, pastoral, and denominational ministry. In 1996 Lampley became the West Florida Regional Director of the Florida Baptist Convention’s African-American Church Planting Department. Lampley led in the starting of 29 churches in West Florida during his Convention service. He and his wife had nine children.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

BARRETT LAMPP

Barrett Lampp surrendered to the ministry while working in California, and met and married Connie, a high school teacher. He is a graduate of California Baptist College (now California Baptist University) and Golden Gate Theological Seminary. Lampp served as pastor of Santa Clara Baptist Church in Gadsden County, 1993-1997.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

KENT LAMPP

Kent Lampp (1945-) was born in Lakeland to parents M. D. (Dink) and Billie G. Lampp. Kent surrendered to the ministry in 1979 and attended the Baptist Bible Institute, FL and New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, LA. Kent has been the pastor of six churches over his lifetime. He served as pastor of Bethel Baptist Church, Holmes County and became DOM of Holmes County Baptist Association in 2015. He and his wife Esther have two daughters.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

M. D. LAMPP

M. D. Lampp was the son of John V. and Ella Yeoman Lampp. He served as pastor of Red Level Baptist Church; Antioch Baptist Church, Live Oak; Astatula Baptist Church; and Sardis Baptist Church, Worthington Springs.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

ROBERT LEE LAMPP

Robert Lee Lampp (1904-1990) was born in Riverview, Florida, the son of John V. and Ella Yeoman Lampp. He was ordained in 1935 by Midway Baptist Church, Plant City. He served as pastor of Tribly Baptist Church, Pasco County, 1937-1939; Knights Baptist Church, Plant City; Cedar Grove Baptist Church; Providence Baptist Church; Richland Baptist Church, Zephyrhills; Highland Baptist Church, Lakeland; and Pine Grove Baptist Church. Lampp and his wife, Merrill Lett Lampp had two daughters.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

W. J. LAMPP

W. J. Lampp served as pastor of El-Bethel Baptist Church, Tampa.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

WALTER I. LAMPP

Walter I. Lampp (1897-1991) was the son of John V. and Ella Yeoman Lampp. He served as pastor of Midway Baptist Church, Plant City, 1937-1938; El Bethel Baptist Church, Tampa; and Ocklawaha Bridge Baptist Church, 1950-1963. Wife, Mattie Taylor Lampp.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

WILLIAM M. LAMPP

William M. Lampp (1899-1970) was born in Plant City, Florida, the son of John V. and Ella Yeoman Lampp. He served as pastor of Mt. Tabor Baptist Church, Lakeland and Kendrick Baptist Church, Ocala. Lampp and his wife Effie Lampp had four daughters.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JAMES W. LANCASTER, JR.

James W. Lancaster, Jr. is the son of Irma and James W. Lancaster, Sr. He graduated from Trinity Bible College and New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. Lancaster served as pastor of Forest Grove Baptist Church, Alachua and Blake Memorial Baptist Church. He and his wife, Barbara have two sons.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JAMES ‘JIM’ LANCASTER, SR.

James ‘Jim’ Lancaster, Sr. (1936-2012) served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Hernando and Carol Estates Baptist Church, Gainesville. He and his wife Irma had three children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

KEITH LANCASTER

Keith Lancaster (1952-   ) was born in Spartanburg, SC. He graduated from Carson Newman College and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Lancaster served as field missionary, Church Planting Department of the Florida Baptist Convention. He and his wife Mollie Barbare Lancaster have one daughter.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

RUSSELL LANCE

Russell Lance served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Hernando.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

J. M. LAND

J. M. Land served as pastor of Pilgrims Rest Baptist Church, Cottondale.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

R. S. LAND

R. S. Land (1908-1980) served as pastor of Pilgrims Rest Baptist Church, Cottondale, 1955. He and his wife, Gladys Land were caretakers of Camp Bethlehem, a private interdemoninational camp located near Bonifay.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

TROY B. LAND

Troy B. Land from Winona, MS served as the first pastor of Southside Baptist Church, Crestview.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

LANDMARK BAPTISTS

The name Landmark originated with the writings of James Madison Pendleton and James Robinson Graves in Kentucky and Tennessee. Both of
these men had tremendous influence on the early years of Baptist organizational work in Florida through their writings and preaching. Both men wrote widely and traveled widely. Their physical presence in Georgia and Florida influenced greatly the early organizational years of the Florida
Baptist Convention. The four primary tenets of Landmarkism are (1) the church is local and visible; (2) the commission was given to the church;
(3) valid baptism is through a Baptist church; (4) and Baptist churches have existed by belief and practice (not by name) from New Testament times. Most churches in the American Baptist Association would hold to these four principles. There are an estimated 1.5 million members in different Baptist churches that hold to these beliefs. They have more than fifteen Bible institutes and seminaries supported by their churches.

Secondary Source:
Frank S. Meade and Samuel S. Hill, Handbook of Denominations,
10th edition.

FRED LANE

Fred Lane (   -1985) was a native of Knoxville, Tennessee. He graduated from Carson-Newman College, Jefferson City, Tennessee. He served as pastor of churches in Tennessee and Florida, including First Baptist Church, Pinellas Park, First Baptist Church, Tarpon Springs and Southside Baptist Church, St. Petersburg (now Southside Tabernacle). In his retirement, Lane served as mission pastor of mobile home parks for the First Baptist Church, St. Petersburg. He and his wife Georgia V. Lane had three sons.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

J. P. LANE

J. P. Lane (   -1949) was ordained by First Baptist Church, Mango in 1941 where he served as pastor. Lane also served as pastor of Florida Avenue Baptist Church. He and his wife, Bertha Gladys Lane had three children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

S. R. LANE

S. R. Lane served as pastor of Fort McCoy Baptist Church, Marion County.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

E. E. LANEY

E. E. Laney (1901-1983) served as pastor of Broadway Baptist Church, Tenth Avenue Baptist Church, Ballast Point Baptist Church, Port Tampa Baptist Church and Macfarlane Baptist Church. Laney taught mathematics at George Washington Junior High School. He and his wife, Johnnie Louise Murray Laney had one son.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

KENNETH LANEY

Kenneth Laney wa born in Sanford, Florida. He graduated from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Laney served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Malone (1987-1990); Fairlawn Baptist Church, and Florida Gardens Baptist Church, Lake Worth. He and his wife had two daughters.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

T. LANG

T. Lang served as pastor of Aenon in Leon County and Bethpage in Jefferson County in 1845. Both churches were in the Florida Association.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Associational Minutes, 1845, p. 8.

JOHN LANGFORD

Langford,-John

John Langford served as pastor of Bethany Baptist Church in Myakka City in 1958.

Secondary Source:
Audry O. Hendry, Bethany Baptist Church 1888-1988, p 16.

LOUIS LANGFORD

Louis Langford (1864-1942) served as pastor of Union Baptist Church, O’Brien.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

N. B. LANGFORD, JR.

N. B. Langford, Jr. (May 19, 1929-February 11, 1998) was born in Jackson, Mississippi. He was converted at age ten, and joined Calvary Baptist Church in Jackson, Mississippi. Langford was licensed to preach by the Moorhead Baptist Church in Moorhead, Mississippi, and was later ordained by the church. Langford graduated from Gulfport, Mississippi High School, Mississippi College, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, and Luther Rice Seminary. He served as a sergeant in the United States Air Force in the Korean War. He served as pastor of D Lo Baptist Church in D Lo, Mississippi from 1954 to 1957, Kirkwood Baptist Church in Bondville, Kentucky from 1957 to 1960, First Baptist Church, Union Springs, Alabama from 1960 to 1963, North Central Baptist Church in Gainesville, Florida from 1963 to 1978, and First Baptist Church in Panama City, Florida from 1978 to 1997. Langford served as President of the Florida Baptist Convention in 1978 and 1979. He served as Trustee at the Baptist College of Florida and The Radio and Television Commission of the Southern Baptist Convention. Langford married Nancy Underwood of Amarillo, Texas, and they had two children, Nathan in 1961, and Nancy in 1963.

Secondary Sources:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.
Florida Baptist Witness, February 19, 1998.
Florida Baptist Convention Annual, 1998, p. 8.

JOHN LANGHORNE

John Langhorne served as pastor of Venetia Terrace Baptist Church, Jacksonville. He and his wife had three children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

A. W. LANGLEY

A. W. Langley served as pastor of Magnolia Baptist, Okaloosa County 1912 and Pleasant Home, Holt.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

PHILLIP LANGLEY

Phillip Langley served as pastor of Union Baptist Church, O’Brien.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

THOMAS E. LANGLEY

/Langley,-T.E.

Thomas E. Langley (August 16, 1834-March 30, 1890) was born near Forsyth, Georgia. He received his education in Perry, Georgia, and was a Latin and Greek scholar. Langley was ordained in January 1857, and remained in the ministry for 30 years until the loss of his health. Langley served as the first pastor of First Baptist Church, Chipley. The church was organized with 19 charter members in 1887. The church first met in a two room school building on the site where the current Washington County Court House stands on Highway 90 in Chipley, Florida. Langley  made the motion which led to the establishment of Stetson University in DeLand, Florida. He served as Moderator of the West Florida Baptist Association for 18 years. He also served the same association for four years as missionary and evangelist.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.
Joan P. Chance, History of First Baptist Church, Chipley, 1887-1987.
West Florida Associational Minutes, 1890, pp. 7-9.
Florida Baptist Convention Annual, 1891, p. 50.

CLARENCE LANGSTON

Clarence Langston (1899-1991) was a lifelong resident of Smith Creek. He served as pastor of Leon Ebenezer Baptist Church, Leon County. Langston and his wife, Ruth Langston had seven children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JAMES F. LANIER

Lanier,-James-F

James F. Lanier (1920-2000) was born in Okeechobee, Florida. He served as pastor of Astatula Baptist Church; Earlington Heights Baptist Church; Bird Road Baptist Church, Miami; Calvary Baptist Church, St. Augustine, 1966-1967; Lakeview Baptist Church, Miami; and Layton Community Baptist Church, Florida Keys. He was pastor emeritus of Layton Community Church in Florida Keys Association at the time of his death. Lanier was a dedicated minister to hundreds of people who vacationed in the Keys. He and his wife, Nellie Pinder Lanier, had three sons, James, Art and Brian.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, August 17, 2000.

Y. G. LANIER

Y. G. Lanier, served as the first pastor of King’s Baptist Church in 1964.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

TERRELL C. LANTON

Terrell C. Lanton served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Gulf Breeze, Northside Baptist Church, Pensacola and Oak Grove Baptist Church, Escambia County.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

EUGENE LANZL

Eugene Lanzl (1942-   ) was born in Manatee, Florida, the son of Peter Paul and Elizabeth Margaret Prescott Lanzl. He graduated from the University of West Florida and attended New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. Lanzl was licensed in 1968 and ordained in 1969 by Bellview Baptist Church. He served as pastor of Pine Forest Chapel, Pensacola. Lanzl and his wife, Sandra G. James Lanzl had two children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

T. J. LARKIN

T. J. Larkin served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Crawfordville and University Heights Baptist Church, Tallahassee (now Northwoods).

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

DON LASTINGER

Don Lastinger (1911-1996) began his ministry at Hillcrest Baptist Church in Pensacola in 1954. In 1993 he was pastor emeritus and director of the
church evangelism efforts. Don was born in Valdosta, Georgia. He was saved in 1936 and surrendered to preach in 1953. He was married to Millie Baker Lastinger. 

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, November 4, 1993, p. 3.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

DAVID LATHREM

David Lathrem (1926-   ) graduated from Georgetown College and Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He served as pastor of Dania Heights Baptist Church, Dania; Central Avenue Baptist Church, Fort Myers; New England Heights Baptist Church, Orlando; and Olga Baptist Church, Fort Myers, 1976-1983. Lathrem and his wife, Mary Lathrem had four daughters.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

KWONG-WAH LAU

Kwong-Wah Lau a native from Hong Kong. He graduated from Southern Baptist Theological Semianary and was ordained by Flagler Street Baptist Church, Miami, 1968. Lau served as pastor of the Chinese Baptist Church of Miami and Chinese Baptist Church of Coral Springs. Lau retired in 2003. He was married to Irene Ng Lau (1932-2005).

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.
Far East, Down South: Asians in the American South, p.118.

DAVID LAUGHNER

David Laughner served as pastor of West Hillsborough Baptist Church and Calvary Baptist Church, Daytona Beach.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

FRED T. LAUGHON JR.

Fred T. Laughon, Jr. (1915-2002) was a native of Johnson City, Tennessee, the son of Fred Thomas, Sr. and Mattie Virginia Waddell Laughon. He served as pastor at Orangeburg, South Carolina, and left there to serve as pastor of First Baptist Church, Gainesville, in 1958. He proved to be an innovative and charismatic leader of the church. Laughon and his wife, Helen Douglas Martin Laughon had two children

Secondary Source:
George C. Osborn. The First Baptist Church, Gainesville, Florida, 1870-1970, pp. 73-90.

KEVIN LAUTAR

Kevin Lautar serves as pastor of Palm Coast First Baptist Church. He and his wife, Ann have two children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

W. WHITNEY LAVENDER, JR.

W. Whitney Lavender, Jr. was the son of W. Whitney, Sr. and Malvina Pauline Lavender. He was ordained by Cassia Baptist Church in 1964. Lavender served as pastor of Dona Vista Baptist Church. He was married to Kathryn Leah Holbrook Lavender.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

W. WHITNEY LAVENDER, SR.

W. Whitney Lavender, Sr. (1919-1996) was born in Bessemer, Alabama, the son of Ernest Linwood and Minnie Bullard Lavender. He graduated from Stetson University and Indianapolis Theological Seminary. Lavender served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Williston, First Baptist Church, Barberville, Lady Lake Baptist Church, 1940 and Cassia Baptist Church. He and his wife, Malvina Pauline Lavender had five children. .

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

B. D. LAW

B. D. Law was pastor of Lemon City Baptist Church in 1933.

Source:
1933 Miami Baptist Association Minutes, p. 4.

CARLIE LAW

Carlie Law served as pastor of Union Baptist Church, O’Brien.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

LARRY LAW

Larry Law (1945-2013) was born in Live Oak, Florida, the son of Norman and Grace Ellis Law. He graduated from the Florida Baptist Theological College, Graceville. Law served as pastor of Piney Grove Baptist Church, Cottondale; Mayo Baptist Church; First Baptist Church, Waldo; and Airline Baptist Church, Lafayette County. He and his wife, Diane Law had three children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

WILLIAM G. LAW

William G. Law was pastor of First Baptist Church in Winter Haven. There is some discrepancy about his years of service at Winter Haven, but it
seems to have been from 1908 to 1916.

Secondary Source:
Josephine G. Burr. History of Winter Haven, Florida, p. 98.
Louise Beauchamp, 1885-1985 History of First Baptist Church, Winter Haven, pp. 12-13.

CHARLES H. LAWHON

Charles H. Lawhon (August 18, 1925-March 13, 1999) was born in Avon Park to the late Raleigh and Miriam Lawhon. He served as pastor of Flora City and Plymouth Baptist Churches before being appointed a foreign missionary to the Philippines in 1960. He returned to the United States in 1970. At his death he was the director emeritus of the Jacksonville Baptist Association Seafarer Ministry. He and his wife had five children.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, May 6, 1999.

GLENN FRANK LAWHON

Glenn Frank Lawhon (1923-2017) was the son of C. K. and Maude Lawhon. He ordained in 1965 by Silver Glyn Baptist Church, Jacksonville. Lawhon graduated from Luther Rice Seminary, Jacksonville, 1967. He served as pastor of First Baptist Church in Sopchoppy and Wakulla Station Baptist Church. He and his wife Willie Mae Carter Lawhon had four children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

H. S. LAWHON

H. S. Lawhon was pastor of West Side Baptist Church in West Palm Beach in1926.

Source:
1926 Miami Baptist Association Minutes, p. 30.

HOWARD DONALD LAWHON

Howard Donald Lawhon (1924-2005) was the son of Ulmont Roy and Ethel Clyde Tucker Lawhon. He served as pastor of Riversink Baptist Church, First Baptist Church, Crawfordville, Hayward Cates Baptist Church, OchlockoneeBay Baptist Church, First Baptist Church, Woodville and many other area churches. Lawhon and his first wife Martha Cecelia Posey Lawhon had five children. His second wife was Myrtle Alice Causseaux Miller whom he married in 1988.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

T. J. LAWHORN

T. J. Lawhorn served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Esto.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JOE L. LAWHORNE

Joe L. Lawhorne (1932-2002) was the son of Thomas Henry and Flora Lorene Pope Lawhorne. He served as pastor of Westside Baptist Church, Zephyrhills, 1971-1974, and First Baptist Church, Marco Island. Lawhorne and his wife, Sarah Kate Sims Lawhorne had five children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

R. C. B. LAWRENCE

R. C. B. Lawrence (1818-1904) died on December 12, 1904, at 86 years of age. In 1881 he was one of the charter members of First Baptist Church, Marianna, and was also their first pastor. In 1860 he was pastor of Poplar Springs, Salem, Friendship, and Pilgrim’s Rest in the West Florida Baptist Association. He served as a Baptist preacher for over 50 years.

Secondary Source:
Leitch, Christ Centered Century, pp. 1-3.
Florida Baptist Convention Annual, 1905, p. 58.
West Florida Baptist Association Minutes, 1860, and 1905, p. 18.

RICHARD S. LAWRENCE

In 1856 Richard S. Lawrence was an ordained minister in Marianna, Florida. He lived in the West Florida Baptist Association area.

Secondary Source:
West Florida Baptist Association Minutes, 1856.

RICK R. LAWRENCE

Rick R. Lawrence (1954-   ) was born in Jeffersonville, IN. He graduated from Luther Rice Seminary and Purdue University. Lawrence served as field missionary, Northeast Florida English-speaking Church Planting Team for the Florida Baptist Convention. He serves as pastor of Summit Baptist Church, High Springs. Lawrence and his wife Vicki have three children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

A. A. LAWSON

A. A. Lawson served as pastor of Westside Baptist Church, Leesburg, and First Baptist Church, Nocatee. 

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

P. LAWSON

P. Lawson served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Jasper.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

PURVIS LAWSON

Purvis Lawson (    -1998) served as pastor of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

ROBERT LAWSON

Robert Lawson served as pastor of Calvary Baptist Church, Daytona Beach, 2004-2006.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

ROBERT W. LAWSON

Robert W. Lawson was a native of Union County, South Carolina. He graduated from Coker College, Hartsville, South Carolina and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Lawson served as pastor of churches in South Carolina, North Carolina, and Florida, including Midway Baptist Church, Plant City, 1951-1952; Gapway Baptist Church, Lakeland and Bonny Baptist Church, Lake Bonny. In 1963, Lawson was appointed By the Home Mission Board as a missionary to serve as Superintendent of Missions, Santee Baptist Association, Sumter, South Carolina. He and his wife had four children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

RODERICK N. LAWSON

Roderick N. Lawson served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Conway.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

ROBERT WILLIAM LAWTON

Robert William Lawton (June 16, 1847-January 3, 1909) was born at Albany, Georgia. He served in the Army during the Civil War and moved to Florida in 1870. In 1872 Lawton married Mary Gwynn of Tallahassee. They had seven children. Lawton was ordained in 1873 and served as pastor of the Baptist churches of Chuluota,Osteen, Geneva, Fort Christmas and Oviedo. He died at Oveido on January 3, 1909.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Convention Annual, 1908, p. 80.
Florida Baptist Witness, January 14, 1909.

CLIFF LEA

Cliff Lea (1970-) is a native of Virginia and grew up in Fort Worth. Lea graduated from Hardin-Simmons University and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Lea served for nine years as pastor of Yorktown Baptist Church in Corpus Christi, Texas before becoming pastor of First Baptist Church Leesburg in 2007. He and his wife, Suzy, have five sons.

Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, August 16, 2007, p. 11.

MILTON S. LEACH, JR.

Leach,-Milton

Milton S. Leach, Jr., (January 18, 1927-October 22, 2001) was known to many as the father of our language work in Florida. Leach was born in Sterling, Texas, and graduated from Howard Payne University and attended Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Leach worked with Hispanics in Texas for nearly ten years before moving to Florida in 1954 to become the director of Spanish missions for the Miami Baptist Association. Leach was fluent in Spanish and bi-cultural. From 1963-1978 he served as director of missions in Puerto Rico. From 1978-1982 he served in the Language Missions Department of the North American Mission Board. In 1982 Leach served again in Florida in language missions. His first wife, Wilma, died in 1981, and he was survived by his second wife Gladys, and three children; Paul, Angela, and Martha. Leach worked for nearly 50 years in the language, refugee, and immigrant ministries programs.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, November 1, 2001.

EDWARD LEADER

Edward Leader served as pastor of First Indian Baptist Church, Brighton.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JOSH LEADINGFOX

Josh LeadingFox serves as pastor of Immokalee First Seminole Baptist Church. He and his wife, Lyndsey LeadingFox have five children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

ELDRED LEATHERS

Eldred Leathers (1933-1996) was born in Morgan County, Alabama, the son of Lowell A. and Manilla Yates Leathers. He served as pastor of churches in Alabama and Florida, including Amelia Baptist Church, Darby. Leathers was married to Joyce Glynell Farmer Leathers in 1951.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

ROLAND QUINCHE LEAVELL

Leavell,-Roland-Q.

Roland Quinche Leavell (1892-1963) is known as a Mississippi native and New Orleans seminary leader, but in Florida, he is known also as having served First Baptist Church in Tampa as pastor. Leavell served as pastor of First Baptist Church in Gainesville, Georgia; First Baptist Church in Oxford, Mississippi, and First Baptist Church in Picayune, Mississippi. Leavell wrote numerous books. He also served as the director of evangelism of the Southern Baptist Convention s Home Mission Board. Leavell was president of New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary from 1946 to 1958. He married Lilian Forbes Yarborough from Hattiesburg, Mississippi, in 1923. In 1953, Dr. Leavell led the Seminary at New Orleans to a new 75 acre campus in Gentilly from their old downtown site in New Orleans.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, January 24, 1963.

DONALD A. LEAVINS

Donald A. Leavins served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Harold.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

RICHARD LEDGISTER

Ledgister,-Richard

Richard Ledgister (May 27, 1946- ) was born in Kingston, Jamaica. He was converted and baptized in 1962 at Zion Hill Baptist Church in St. Mary, Jamaica. He served as student pastor of Monique Baptist Church in St. Ann, Jamaica, and as pastor of the Yallahs Circuit of Baptist Churches from 1973 to 1979. He was pastor of Calvary Baptist Church in Miami, Florida, from 1986 to 1988. Calvary merged with Sierra Norwood to become Sierra Norwood Calvary Baptist Church in July, 1988. Ledgister has served that church as pastor since the union of churches. Ledgister serves in numerous capacities in the Miami Association and Florida Baptist Convention. He and his wife, Vorst, have three children, Damian, Sheree, and Mark.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

ALVIN J. LEE

Alvin J. Lee was a chaplain and served as supply pastor of Brownsville Baptist Church, Pensacola.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

BYRON LEE

Byron Lee served as pastor of Enon Baptist Church, Walnut Hill.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

CHARLES R. LEE

Charles R. Lee (   -1955) was pastor at Ojus in 1922, Little River Baptist Church, 1922-1926, Dania Baptist Church, and West Little River Baptist Church. Lee and his wife, Stella B. Lee had six children.

Source:
1922 Miami Baptist Association Minutes, p. 41.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

D. P. LEE

D. P. Lee served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Havana.

Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, April 13, 1939, pp. 8-9.

DANIEL LEE

Daniel Lee was born in Korea. He served as pastor of First Korean Baptist Church, Melbourne. He is married to Esther Lee.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

H. DOUGLAS LEE

H. Douglas Lee (1943-2009) was reared in Danville, Virginia. He attended the University of Richmond (B.A., 1964), Southeastern Seminary (B.D. and
Th. M.) and the University of Iowa (Ph.D., 1971). He married Margaret Easley, and they had a son Gregory, and a daughter Elizabeth. Lee went to Stetson University as vice president for development in 1978. Prior to that he served in the same position at Wake Forest University after having served on the religion faculty of Virginia Intermond College. Lee became the eighth president of Stetson College in 1987. He and Mrs. Lee were very active in the civic and cultural interests of the state and as members of First Baptist Church of Deland. Lee served as President of Stetson for 22 years (1987-2009) and was Chancellor at the time of his death.

Secondary Sources:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

J. PERRY LEE

J. Perry Lee served as pastor of Pompano Beach Baptist Church and died in Miami in 1934.

Secondary Source:
Miami Baptist Association Minutes, 1933.
Florida Baptist Convention Annual, 1934, p. 94.

JAMES LEE

James Lee served as pastor of Mill Creek Baptist Church, Bradenton.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JERRY WALLACE LEE

Lee,-J.W.

Jerry Wallace Lee (September 21, 1932- April 23, 2005) was born in Orange, Texas. He attended grammar schools at Eunice and Pineville, Louisiana, and Bridge City, Texas. He graduated from high school at St. Francisville in 1951. Lee attended Louisiana College (B.A., 1955), and New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary (M.Div., 1958; Th.D., 1964). Lee served as pastor of six churches in Louisiana and Mississippi. He joined the faculty of Baptist Bible Institute in 1969, and taught Old Testament. Lee married Joyce Bilbo of Bogalusa, Louisiana, in 1952. They had three children; Jerolyn in 1955, Jody in 1958, and Jay in 1960. Lee is best known in the tri-states area for having served 40 different interims. At the time of his death, it was the most interim pastorates served by anyone in the Florida Baptist Convention.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

PAUL LEE

Paul Lee served as pastor of Miami First Korean Baptist Church.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

ROBERT EDWARD LEE

Lee,-Robert-E.

Robert Edward Lee (1907-1984) was born near Prentiss, Mississippi. He attended Clarke Memorial College, Mississippi College, and The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He served as pastor of Bayshore in Tampa on two occasions. He also served churches in Fort Lauderdale and Stuart. He and his wife, Theo, had three sons, James, Gaines, and Robert.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, May 4, 25, 1944; February 23, 1984, p. 6.

SAMUEL LEE

Samuel Lee served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Blountstown and First Baptist Church, Callahan.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

DONNIE LEGG

Donnie Legg was ordained at Central Baptist Church in Melbourne. He went as pastor of First Baptist Church Aurantia in Mims in 2005. Legg served as chaplain to the Florida Marlins. He and his wife, Patti, have two children.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, September 1, 2005, p. 11.

DALE LEGGETT

Dale Leggett served as pastor of Valley Grove Baptist Church, 1984-1988.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

GOULD A. LEICHLITER

Gould A. Leichliter (1891-1971) was the son of John Lyons and Emma G. Brooks Leichliter. He served as the executive secretary-treasurer of the Florida Baptist Foundation, 1952-1961. Wife, Clyda H. Leichliter.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

GAYLE JORDAN LEININGER

Gayle Jordan Leininger (1940-   ) was born in Montgomery, AL. She graduated from Samford University and Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Leininger served as the Literacy Missions Consultant for the Florida Baptist Convention. She and her husband, M. Wic Leininger, have two sons.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

GEORGE T. LEITNER

George T. Leitner (1851-1911) was born in South Carolina the son of  George Elisha and Pathenia A. Cheatam Waller Leitner. He served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Williston, Aucilla and Elizabeth churches in Jefferson County and New Macedonia in Madison County. Leitner and his wife Rebecca Ann Dozier Leitner had ten children.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Associational Minutes, 1877, p. 15.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

DAVID LEMA, JR.

David Lema, Jr., was Cuban born and a third generation minister. After living in Spain, Lema’s family moved to New Orleans. He graduated from the University of New Orleans (B.A.) and New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary (M.Div.; D.Min). Lema served as a church planter in Miami and
joined the faculty of New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary in 2006.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, May 18, 2006, p. 9.

ROGER D. LEMASTER

LeMaster,-Roger-D.

Roger D. LeMaster graduated from Campbellsville College and The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He served Payneville Baptist Church in Kentucky four year before becoming pastor of Tropical Farms Church, Stuart, in 1980.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, November 6, 1980, p. 6.

ROBERT LeMAY

Robert LeMay served as pastor of Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church Baker.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

R. M. LEMLY

R. M. Lemly served as pastor of Fort Myers Beach Chapel, 1953-1954.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

CHARLES C. LEMONS

Charles C. Lemons served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Delray Beach.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JOHN LENNARD

John Lennard served as pastor of Double Branch Baptist Church (now First Baptist Church, Wesley Chapel).

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

RON LENTINE

Ron Lentine (1951-) graduated from Palm Beach Atlantic University (B. S.) and Southern Baptist Theological Seminary (M. Div.). Lentine has served
at First Baptist Church, Key Largo, First Baptist Church, Lake Park and Myrtle Grove Baptist Church, Pensacola. Lintine and his wife Marilyn have
two children Chris and Ashley.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

CATHY LENTZ

Cathy Lentz is a graduate of the University of West Florida. She served as Literacy Coordinator/ESL for the Florida Baptist Convention.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

ANTHONY LEON

Anthony Leon served as pastor of Iglesia Bautista Central, Kissimmee. He and his wife Elizabeth A. Leon had three children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

E. M. LEONARD

E. M. Leonard was pastor of FBC, Opa-Locka Baptist Church in 1941, 1943, and 1944.

Source:
1941 Miami Baptist Association Minutes, p. 5; Ibid, 1943, p.8; Ibid, 1944, p. 34.

JAMES E. LEONARD

James E. Leonard served as pastor of Florida Avenue Baptist Church, Tampa, Bell Shoals Baptist Church, Manhattan Baptist Church, Tampa and First Baptist Church, Lake Park.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

E. C. LERCH

E. C. Lerch served as pastor of Main St. Baptist Church, Leesburg, Deerfield Baptist Church and Hardeetown, Hardee.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

C. S. LESTER

C. S. Lester served as pastor of West Palm Beach in 1918.

Source:
1918 Miami Baptist Association Minutes, p. 25.

E. S. LESTER

E. S. Lester served as pastor of Pilgrims Rest Baptist Church, Cottondale.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

L. G. LETT

L. G. Lett served as pastor of West Pittman Baptist Church, Westville, 1957-1958.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

W. W. LEVERETTE

W. W. Leverette served as pastor of Pine Barron Baptist Church, Davisville.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

ROBERT LEVEY

The death of pastor Robert Levey was reported in the 1868 Florida Baptist Associational Minutes. In 1862 Levey was pastor of Aenon in Leon County, Florida.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Associational Minutes, 1862, p. 8.
Florida Baptist Associational Minutes, 1868, p. 5.

NORMAN LEVINE

Norman Levine (1913-2007) was born in Newport, Kentucky to Bernard and Marjorie Alexander Levine. He attended Moody Bible Institution in Wheaton, Illinois. He was ordained at Woodlawn Baptist Church in Johnson, Florida in July 1950 and led the singing twice for Evangelist Billy Graham in Stark, Florida. He served as pastor of Mt. Nebo Baptist Church, Bell; First Baptist Church, Cedar Key; First Baptist Church, Fort White; Southside Baptist Church, Palatka; Evergreen Baptist Church, Lawtey; Beulah Baptist Church, Clay County; Fairbanks Baptist Church, Gainesville; Oak Grove Baptist Church, Lake City; Old Providence Baptist Church, Lake City; and Ochwilla Baptist Church. Levine was pastor of several churches throughout Florida and Kentucky and served as Chaplain in the U.S. Navy during WWII. After his service to his country in the Navy, he worked at the University of Florida as a machinist. He and his wife Anna Louise Moore and they had two sons.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

S. K. LEVITT

S. K. Levitt served as pastor of First Baptist Church in Jacksonville from 1884-1887.

Secondary Source:
Belton S. Wall, Jr. A Tale To Be Told, p. 104.

W. D. LEVY

W. D. Levy served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Woodville.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

C. J. LEWIS

C. J. Lewis served as pastor of Oakland Baptist Church, Taylor County.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

CHARLES D. LEWIS

Charles D. Lewis served as pastor of Lake Carroll Baptist Church, 1963-1955.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

DAVID LEWIS

David Lewis served as pastor of Woodbine Baptist Church, and First Baptist Church Bagdad.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

DEWITT LEWIS

DeWitt Lewis was pastor of Southside Baptist Church in Miami in 1943 and 1944.

Source:
1943 Miami Baptist Association Minutes, p. 9; Ibid, 1944, p. 34.

ED LEWIS

Ed Lewis served as pastor of Oak Grove Baptist Church, Escambia County.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

J. EARL LEWIS

Lewis,-J.-Earl

J. Earl Lewis (1900-1984) was raised in Florida. He attended Norman Park, Moody Bible Institute, and Mt. Vernon University in Arlington, Virginia. He served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Pahokee (1925-1927), First Baptist Church, Polk County (1939), Belmont Heights, Tampa (1931-1944), and Springfield, Jacksonville.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, August 17, 1944, p. 12.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JAMES LEWIS

James Lewis was a member of First Baptist Church in Lake City, Florida. He was ordained by the church on October 7, 1866. Lewis was one of the earliest black preachers among Florida Baptist Churches.

Source:
First Baptist Church, Lake City Minutes.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JOHN LEWIS

John Lewis served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Longwood, 1941.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JOHN MARION LEWIS

John Marion Lewis (   -1958) from Tennessee was employed by the Florida Baptist State Board of Missions in 1913 to serve as evangelist in Marion, Pasco, and Alachua Association. He graduated from Carson-Newman College, TN and served as pastor of First Baptist Church, High Springs, Tribley Baptist Church, Pasco County, Buffalo Avenue Baptist Church, Tampa, Palmetto Baptist Church, First Baptist Church, Terra Ceia, Riverside Baptist Church, Fort Pierce, and Parkview Baptist Church, Arcadia. Lewis and his wife, Frances Ellen Lewis had one daughter, Ruth.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, April 10, 1913, p. 14.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

LEROY LEWIS

LeRoy Lewis was born in St. Augustine, the son of Joseph and Nellie Lewis. He graduated from the Baptist Bible Institute, Graceville. While attending  the Baptist Bible Institute, Lewis served as pastor at Mt. Olive Baptist Church, Madison (1972-1973) and Pilgrims Rest Bapstist Church, Cottondale (1974-1975). He served for 35 years as pastor of First Baptist Church San Mateo. He and his wife, Charlotte, have two daughters.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, March 2, 2006, p. 11.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

MICHAEL S. LEWIS

Michael S. Lewis was born in Georgia and graduated from Columbia International University and Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. He served as pastor in Georgia and Texas and became pastor of First Baptist Church, Plant City in 2009. In 2013 Lewis joined the North American Mission Board as executive director for church revitalization and pastoral relations. He and his wife Liliana have three daughters.

Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, April 9, 2009, p. 4.
Alabama Baptist, January 21, 2013, p. 16.

OVID LEWIS

Ovid Lewis (1919-1989) was a native of Branford County, Florida. He served as pastor of Shady Sea Baptist Church, Spring Creek, 1970-1973, Riversink Baptist Church, 1973-1976, Midway Baptist Chapel, Lloyd Baptist Church, and Riverside Baptist Church. Lewis and his wife, Davie B. Lewis had three daughters.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

R. W. LEWIS

R. W. Lewis served as pastor of Pilgrims Rest Baptist Church, Cottondale.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

REX LEWIS

Rex Lewis was born in Endevor, Pennsylvania. He graduated from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Lewis served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Orange Park and River Road Baptist Church, Palatka. He and his wife Betty Sue Lewis have two daughters.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

S. STANFORD LEWIS

S. Stanford Lewis (1933-1957) died at age 24, while serving as pastor of Heckscher Drive Baptist Church in Jacksonville. He was a native of Jacksonville. He had attended Truett-McConnell Junior College and Mercer University. He married Ruby C. Lewis. He died November 18, 1957 in Jacksonville.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, November 28, 1957, p. 12.

WILLIAM LEWIS

William Lewis served as pastor of Olga Baptist Church, Fort Myers, 1984-1986.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

WILLIAM ESTAL LEWIS, JR.

William Estal Lewis Jr. (January 8, 1929- ) was born in Sarasota, Florida. He was the son of William E. Lewis, Sr., and Margaret Ann Knight Lewis. His father was a carpenter and his mother was a nurse. Lewis had two brothers, Calvin, born in 1939, Jerry, born in 1941, and seven sisters; Virginia, born in 1926; Mary, born in 1927; Margaret, born in 1931; Clara, born in 1932; Jacquelyn, born in 1934; Eileen, born in 1936; and Gloria, born in 1938. Lewis graduated from Sarasota High School in 1946, Stetson University in 1952 (B.A.), and Southwestern Theological Seminary in 1955 (B.D.). He was converted at age eight, and baptized into First Baptist Church of Sarasota. He was also ordained at that church on August 5, 1951. Lewis served as pastor of Friendship Baptist Church in Apache, Oklahoma (1952-1953), Wizard Wells Baptist Church in Wizard Wells, Texas (1953-1955), Northside Baptist Church in Mineral Wells, Texas (1955), and Northeast Baptist Church in Miami, Florida (1955-1958). He married Nina Beadie Allen on July 24, 1953 at Miami, Florida. They served as foreign missionaries in Dar es Salaam, Tangenyika, East Africa.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

V. L. ROY LIBURD

Liburd,-V.L.
V. L. Roy Liburd (August 23, 1942- ) was born in St. Kitts. He attended Sandy Point Senior High School in St. Kitts, Hannibal-LaGrange College in Boliver, Missouri, Luther Rice Seminary (M.A.), and Covington Theological Seminary (D.Min.). Liburd was converted in St. Kitts in 1957, and was called to preach in 1959. He was baptized into the Cruz Bay Baptist Church of St. John (USCI) in 1959. He served as pastor in St. Kitts, Antigua, and the British Virgin Islands before coming to the United States. He served as pastor in Missouri, and then came to Harmony Baptist Church in Lakeland, Florida. He and his wife, Ursula, have three children, Lancelot, Alexander, and R. Theo-Linda.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

WALTER NORMAN LIDDY

Walter Norman Liddy (1884-1969) was born in Melbourne, Australia, the son of Rev. and Mrs. W. A. Liddy. He graduated from Moody Bible College and Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Liddy served as pastor of Calvary Baptist Church, Clearwater and assistant pastor of Disston Avenue Baptist Church, St. Petersburg. He and his wife, Bessie Fern Richardson Liddy had one son.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

THOMAS DILL LIDE

Lide,-Thomas-Dill

Thomas Dill Lide (1902-2001) was a native of South Carolina. He graduated from Furman University and Southwestern Seminary. Lide served as pastor in Texas, South Carolina and Florida. He served Seminole Heights Baptist Church, Tampa; First Baptist Church, Perry; and First Baptist Church, Dunnellon. After retirement he served 25 churches as interim pastor. He and his wife of 72 years, Bettie Koller Lide had three daughters; Lee, Ilda, and Bobbie.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, October 18, 2001, p. 10.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

HARRY M. LIECHTY, SR.

Harry M. Liechty, Sr. (1899-1990) was a Baptist preacher for 56 years, and helped start 150 missions. He was a native of Ohio, and moved to Jacksonville after World War I. He graduated from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary in 1933. He was ordained at Oceanway Baptist
Church in Jacksonville in 1934, where he served as pastor. Four missions were started while he was at Oceanway. He then went to First Baptist
Church in Marianna, and they started four missions. He was pastor of Franklin Street Baptist Church in Jacksonville, and they started four
missions. He worked in the Florida Baptist Convention, and later in the California Baptist Convention. He was always on the cutting edge as a
church mission starter. He and his wife, Ruth Morris Liechty, had one son, Harry Jr., who served as a Baptist preacher for 40 years. They had one daughter, Jacqueline, who served 23 years as a missionary to India.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, October 11, 1990, p. 3.
Leitch, Christ Centered Century, pp. 12-21.

HARRY M. LIECHTY, JR.

Liechty,-Harry

Harry M. Liechty, Jr. (1927-July 9, 2005) was the only son of Harry M. Leichty, Sr., and Ruth Morris Liechty. Liechty Sr., was a Baptist preacher for 56 years. Liechty Jr., was a Baptist preacher for 40 years. He served as pastor of Fellowship Baptist Church, Ocala; Immanuel Baptist Church, Jacksonville; and was founding pastor of Lake Maggione Baptist Church in St. Petersburg. He moved to California in 1960 where he served three churches. He and his wife, Adah, had three children; David, Steve and Kathie and one step-daughter, Tina.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, August 4, 2005, p. 11.

A. E. LIGHTFOOT

Lightfoot,-A.-E.

A. E. Lightfoot received his early schooling in Miami. He then graduated from Stetson University and The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He was ordained at First Baptist Church Deland on December 5, 1929. He served as pastor in South Miami, Northwood West Palm Beach, Blountstown, Starke (1939-1944), and Brentwood in Jacksonville.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, April 6, 1944, p. 8.

GARY LIGHTFOOT

Gary Lightfoot served as pastor of Lake Panasoffkee Baptist Church.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

J. T. LIGHTFOOT

J.T. Lightfoot served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Lake City.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JAMES L. LIGHTSEY

James L. Lightsey (1932-2009) was a native of Wabasso and served in the United States Marine Corps in the Korean War. He served churches in Mississippi, North Carolina, Alabama and Florida. Lightsey served Orange Avenue Baptist Church in Fort Pearce; Mount Pleasant in High Springs; Hogue in Gainesville and Fort White Baptist Church. He and his wife Helen B. Black Lightsey were married 51 years and had two sons, Rob and Jeff.

Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, March 12, 2009, p. 4.

THOMAS EDWIN LILY

Thomas Edwin Lily (February 3, 1930- ) was born at Erwin, Tennessee. He was the son of Fred Lilly and Anna Hensley Lilly. His father was an engineer and his mother a housewife. Lily was raised in Charleston, South Carolina (1936-1939) and Savannah, Georgia (1940-1948). He graduated from Savannah High School in Savannah, Georgia, in 1948. Lily attended Mercer University (A.B., 1952) and New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary (M.R.E., 1957). He was converted at age twelve, and was baptized on Easter Sunday in 1952 at Bull Street Baptist Church in Savannah. He was ordained on February 26, 1952, at Taliaferro Baptist Church in Savannah, Georgia. Lily served as a Baptist Student Union Director for the Louisiana Baptist Convention (1956-1957) and then as Baptist Student Union Director at the University of Miami starting in 1957. He then served as Director of the Home Mission Board Rescue Mission in New Orleans. Lily married Carolyn Benson Lilly on April 30, 1952, at Macon, Georgia, and they had one son, Fred, born in 1957.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

KYUNG CHUL LIM

Kyung Chul Lim served as associate pastor of Hendricks Avenue Baptist Church, and pastor of the Korean First Baptist Church, Jacksonville.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

EARL LIMS

Earl Lims served as pastor of Belmont Heights Baptist Church, Tampa.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

BARRY LINDAMOOD

Barry Lindamood served as pastor of West Pittman Baptist Church, Westville, 1998.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

HOMER GENTRY LINDSAY, JR.

Lindsay,-Homer,-Jr.

Homer Gentry Lindsay, Jr. (July 10, 1927-February 13, 2000) died at age 72 as a result of complications from cancer. Lindsay was born in Nashville, Tennessee, to Ruth and Homer G. Lindsay, Sr. When he was 13 years of age his family moved to Jacksonville, Florida, when Lindsay, Sr., became pastor of First Baptist Church. Lindsay graduated from Stetson University and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in 1952. In September 1952, he married Shirley Tillman, and accepted the pastorate of a 42 member mission in Miami.This mission became Northwest Baptist Church and grew from 42 members to 3,280 members in the sixteen years Lindsay served as pastor. He became co-pastor in 1969 with his father at First Baptist Church in Jacksonville. In the next 20 years the Sunday School enrollment increased from 2,300 to over 14,000. In 1982 Jerry Vines joined Lindsay as co-pastor, and a new 9,200 seat auditorium was built. Lindsay served for 31 years at First Baptist Church and had planned to retire on March 31, 2000. Lindsay and his wife, Shirley, had three daughters, Nancy, Clara, and Peggy. He was known for his love of the Lord Jesus, and his hard work at witnessing and soul winning. The Lindsay s had a son, Homer Lindsay III, who died of a heart attack on January 28, 2000.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, February 24, 2000, p. 1.
Belton S. Wall, Jr. A Tale To Be Told, pp. 122-123.

HOMER GENTRY LINDSAY, SR.

Lindsay,-Homer,-Sr.

Homer Gentry Lindsay, Sr. (1903-1981) was a native of Lake City, Tennessee. He served as pastor of First Baptist Church in Jacksonville from 1940 to 1973, for a total of 33 years. He and his son, Lindsay Jr, were co-pastors of the church from 1969 to 1973, when Lindsay, Jr. became pastor. Lindsay was a denominational leader at a very critical time of state and national crisis. When he began the Jacksonville pastorate, the church had lost its property and was bankrupt. In 1969 the church had grown to 12,200 members. When the state convention was in a difficult time in 1945, Lindsay served as acting executive secretary-treasurer until the coming of Dr. John McGuire. He also served as president of the Foreign Mission Board of the Southern Baptist Convention from 1962 until 1966. In 1964 he served as president of the Florida Baptist State Convention.He died of cancer on September 5, 1981. Lindsay was a graduate of Carson-Newman College and Southwestern Seminary. He served as pastor in Texas and Tennessee before coming to Florida. He and his wife, Ruth Ewton Lindsay had one son, Homer Lindsay, Jr., and one daughter, Jo Ann Nicholson, who died of cancer on April 28, 1981.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, September 17, 1981, p. 6.
Belton S. Wall, Jr. A Tale To Be Told.

JACK LINDSAY

Jack Lindsay served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Longwood.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JACK LINDSEY

Jack Lindsey served as pastor of Lake Mystic Baptist Church, Bristol.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

RICK LINEBERGER

Lineberger,-Rick

Rick Lineberger is a native of Arkansas, and a graduate of Ouachita Baptist University, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary. He served as pastor of First Baptist Church in Grapevine, Texas (1989-2003) before coming as pastor of First Baptist Church in Bradenton in 2003. He and his wife, Tracey, have two adult children.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, August 21, 2003, p. 10.

GEORGE LINER

George Liner (1916-1978) was born in Chattanooga, TN. He attended the University of Chattanooga, TN and Baptist Bible Institute, Lakeland. He was ordained in 1950 by First Baptist Church, Avon Park. He served as pastor of Northside Baptist Church, Wauchula, Eastside Baptist Church, Haines City, Wildwood Baptist Church, Bartow, Ogla Baptist Church, Ft. Myers, Sydney Baptist Church, Jan Phyl Baptist Church, Winter Haven, and Bethel Baptist Church, Socrum.Liner and his wife, Dorothy Roberta Robertson Liner had five children. 

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

ROBERT T. LINER

Robert T. Liner (1916-1997) was born in Chattanooga, Tennessee. He graduated from Stetson University. He served as pastor of churches in Louisiana, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Florida. He served in Florida at First Baptist Church, Plymouth from 1945 to 1949, First Baptist Church of Avon Park, First Baptist Church in Auburndale, McGregor Baptist Church in Fort Myers, and Main Street Baptist Church in Bartow. Liner and his wife, Edna Phillips Liner had three children.

Secondary Sources:
Florida Baptist Witness, March 24, 1949, p. 13; December 18, 1997.

J. E. LINGERFELT

J. E. Lingerfelt served as pastor of First Black Creek Baptist Church, Penney Farms.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

ALFRED LINK

Alfred Link served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Groveland.

Source:
Forty Fruitful Years, History Lake County Association, 1924-1964.

HAROLD H. LINK

Harold H. Link died December 12, 1976, in Orlando, Florida. He was a graduate of the University of Florida, New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, and The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Prior to retirement, Link served as pastor of the following Baptist churches in Florida. Groveland in Groveland, Eliam in Melrose, Philadelphia in McAlpin, Oviedo, Williston, Key West, and Carrabelle. His last three years of ministry were spent as a missionary in the Cayman Islands. He and his wife, Smithie, had two sons and one daughter.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, January 22, 1976, p. 6.

GARY F. LINTON

Gary F. Linton a native of Tallahassee, received degrees in Pastoral Theology from both Florida Baptist College in Lakeland and Hyles-Anderson College in Crown Point, Indiana. Linton was a bi-vocational pastor who served at Northside Baptist Church and Seminole Baptist Church, Tallahassee. He and his wife Sharon had three daughters.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

H. S. LINTON

H. S. Linton (1805-1868) was an early pioneer pastor in Florida. In 1845 H. S. Linton was pastor of Elizabeth in Jefferson County, Ebenezer in Jefferson County, and Ocilla in Madison County. All of these churches were located in the Florida Baptist Association.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Association Minutes, 1845, p. 8.

SIDNEY H. LINTON

Sidney H. Linton(   -1869) was pastor of Elizabeth Baptist Church in Jefferson County from 1845-1847. He also served as pastor of Ebenezer in Jefferson County and Ocilla in Madison County. All of those churches were located in the Florida Baptist Association.

 Sources:
Florida Baptist Associational Minutes, 1845, p. 8; 1869, p. 9.

JESSE LIPHAM

Jesse Lipham served as pastor of Pine Barron Baptist Church, Davisville.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

CLYDE B. LIPSCOMB

Lipscomb,-Clyde

Clyde B. Lipscomb (1916-1992) served as pastor of Hendricks Avenue Baptist Church in Jacksonville for 26 years (1953-1970). He was a native of Richmond, Virginia. He was a graduate of the University of Richmond, and The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky. He was known for his pastoral work and community involvement.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, May 21, 1992, p. 7.

BRUCE V. LISLE

Lisle,-Bruce-V.

Bruce V. Lisle served as the first part time bivocational director of missions in the Florida Keys Association starting in 1980. He had served as associate pastor at Big Coppitt Church and as chaplain of the Big Pine Key State Prison. He also worked as a security officer with the Monroe County public school system.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, December 18, 1980, p. 12.

WILLIAM B. LISTON

William B. Liston (1877-1943) was born in Hamilton County, Florida. He was ordained in 1906 and served as pastor in Central Florida for over 30 years, including Hatch Bend Baptist Church, Branford and Union Baptist Church, O’Brien. He and his wife Alice had five children: Cecil, Cephas, Jesse, Flora and Doshie.

Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, November 25, 1943, p. 2.

ELWOOD LITTLE

Little,-Elwood

Elwood Little attended Baptist Bible Institute in Graceville, Florida, Clark Memorial College, and Hannibal LaGrange College. He served as pastor
in Missouri and Florida. In 1980 he went as pastor of Miller Memorial Church in Orlando.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, May 29, 1980, p. 6.

NATHAN LITTLE

Nathan Little served as pastor of Poplar Dell Baptist Church, Bratt.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

THOMAS LITTLE, JR.

Thomas Little, Jr., graduated from Baptist Bible Institute in Graceville, Florida, Louisiana College, and New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary.
Little served as pastor of Hillsdale Baptist Church near Anite, Louisiana, and became pastor of First Baptist Church in Bratt in 1980.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, February 7, 1980, p. 6.

DENNIS LITTLETON

Dennis Littleton served as pastor of Palm Coast First Baptist Church.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

J. W. LITTLETON

J. W. Littleton served as pastor of Port Orange Baptist Church.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

CHARLES LITZELL

Charles Litzell was born in Interlachen, Florida. He graduated from the Baptist Bible Institute, Graceville in 1970. Litzell served as pastor of Hillcrest Baptist Church, Palatka, 1970-1972, 1974; Woodlawn Baptist Church, Hawthorne, George’s Lake Baptist Church (now Oak Avenue); Florahome Baptist Church, 1972-1974; and New Cross Creek Baptist Church, Hawthorne. Litzell and his wife Dorothy have two children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

ALVIN LIVINGSTON

Alvin Livingston (1930-2021) was born in Perry, Florida, the son of William Wagner and Isabelle Turner Livingston. He served as pastor of Lebanon Baptist Church. Livingston and his wife, Lois Opehlia Clemons Livingston had two sons.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

CLYDE LIVINGSTON

Clyde Livingston served as pastor of Double Branch Baptist Church (now First Baptist Church, Wesley Chapel).

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

CHARLES LLOYD

Charles Lloyd (1929-1984) was a native of Raleigh, North Carolina. He served as pastor of churches in North Carolina, Virginia and Florida, including First Baptist Church, North Miami Beach. Lloyd and his wife, Barbara Kimball Lloyd had four children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

MICHAEL LoBRUTTO

Michael LoBrutto serves as pastor of Barwick Road Baptist Church in Delray Beach. He and his wife Heather have two sons.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

O. G. “TIM” LOCHER

O. G. “Tim” Locher (1939-)  was the son of Oliver G. and Barbara Locher. He served as a U.S. Navy fighter pilot before becoming a pilot for Delta Airlines. He served on the State Board of Missions, and was City Commissioner in Hollywood, from 1976-1978. Locher served as president of the Florida Baptist State Convention in 1993. He and his wife, Karen Thoureen Locher, had four children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

ALBERT LOCKE

Albert Locke (1934-2012) formed a music group known as Albert Locke and the Antioch Quartet. Locke was ordained by the Beaver Creek Baptist Church in 1960 and served as pastor. Other churches Locke  pastored were First Baptist Church, Laurel Hill, 1967-1973, and First Baptist Church, Crawfordville, 1973-1976. He and his wife Natalie had three children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

B. DURWOOD LOCKE

Locke,-B.-Durwood

B. Durwood Locke (1909-1990) worked with the Home Mission Board in Florida for 30 years. He participated in starting 188 missions with 139 of them becoming churches. He served in the Tampa and Tallahassee area. Locke was licensed to preach by First Baptist Church of Bonifay, and ordained at First Baptist Church in Ponce de Leon. He attended Carson Newman College, Stetson University, and The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Locke served as Superintendent of Missions, Dirstrict 8, Halifax (1958-1966) and Seminole (1961-1966) Associations and Director of Missions for the Wekiwa Baptist Association, 1950-1967 and the Florida Baptist Association, 1967-1970. He and his wife, Grace Poole Locke, were married for 52 years. They had one daughter, Laura, and one son, John.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, May 24, 1990, p. 14.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

C. E. LOCKE

C. E. Locke served as pastor of Union Hill Baptist Church, 1920. He and his wife Mary Alice Nowell Locke had a son Rev. B. Durwood Locke. 

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JAMES L. LOCKE

Locke,-James-L.

James L. Locke is a native of Nashville, Tennessee, the son of James Luther, Sr. and Imogene Locke. He graduated from Vanderbilt University and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He served as pastor of First Baptist Church of Forsyth, Missouri (1995-2005) before becoming pastor of Hillcrest Baptist Church in Pensacola in 2005. He and his wife, Judy, have two children.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, May 26, 2005, p. 7.

JEFF LOCKE

Jeff Locke served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Laurel Hill.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

S. W. LOCKE

S. W. Locke served as pastor of Pilgrims Rest Baptist Church, Cottondale, 1897 and Union Hill Baptist Church, 1919.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

SAMUAL J. LOCKHART

Samual J. Lockhart (    -1999) was ordained by the Grand Ridge Baptist Church in 1957, where he served as pastor.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

WILLIAM HENRY LOCKLEAR II

William Henry Locklear II, (1903-1972) was born in Sarasota, Florida, October 4, 1903, the son of William Henry and Louise Locklear. He began preaching at age 28 and was ordained at Six Mile Creek Baptist Church in Tampa. He spent his early years of ministry as a bi-vocational pastor working during the week at the Tampa shipyard as a carpenter. He served as pastor of State Highway, Riverview, Myakka City, Oneco, Turkey Creek, First Baptist Church, Zolfo Springs, Sydney, and Richland Baptist Church. W. H. Locklear married Lois Jerkins Locklear and they had two children: Lois Carlene and William Henry, III. Locklear retired from the ministry in 1969 and died February 19, 1972.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

W. A. LOCKLER

W. A. Locklear (1911-   ) was a native of Alabama and was ordained into the ministry in 1938. He graduated from Howard College. served as pastor of Yulee Baptist Church, Yulee, Riverview Baptist Church, Jacksonville, Miller Memorial Baptist Church, Orlando, First Baptist Church, Bushnell, and Forest Hills Baptist Church, Tampa. He was a full-time pastor but also taught history for grades 9-12 and coached girls and boys’ basketball at Yulee school. The Lockler’s had three children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

A. L. LOFTIN

A. L. Loftin served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Blountstown.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

A. R. LOFTIN

A. R. Loftin served as pastor of Friendship Baptist Church, Malone.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

J. WESLEY LOFTIS

J. Wesley Loftis was a native of Texas, where he attended and later taught at Howard Payne College, Brownwood, TX. He served as pastor of Silver Spring Baptist Church, Silver Spring, MD for 20 years (1927-1947). Loftis served as pastor of Palma Ceia Baptist Church, Tampa, 1948-1953 and Drew Park Baptist Chapel (now Hubert Avenue), Tampa, 1954-1958. He and his wife, Eula B. Loftis had two children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

CARL J. LOGAN

Logan,-Carl

Carl J. Logan (May 18, 1957- ) was born in Mill Valley, California. He was converted in 1988, and baptized at Pilgrim Baptist Church in San Mateo,
California. He was ordained there in 1993. Logan attended Philander Smith College (B.A., 1979), and Golden Gate Theological Seminary (M.Div., 1996). He has served in the ministry in California and Florida. He has served as pastor of Providence Christian Fellowship in Jacksonville since 1998. He and his wife, Jacquelyn Renee, have two daughters, LaQuita and Brittiany, and one son, Patrick.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

NORMAN LOGES

Norman Loges (1950-2021) was born in Cleveland, Ohio, the son of Howard Williams and Phyllis Hewitt Loges. He graduated from Florida State University, Cal State Fullerton and New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. Loges served as pastor of Friendship Baptist Church, Live Oak. He and his wife, Marilyn Leslie Loges had two daughters.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, January 17, 1980, p. 6.

WILLIAM D. LOLLAR

William D. Lollar (1955-   ) was born in Columbus, MS. He graduated from Mississippi State University, Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary and New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. Lollar served as field missionary Church Planting Department for the Florida Baptist Convention. He and his wife Sheri Lyn Gerren have four children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

C. C. LONG

C. C. Long served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Okahumpka, First Baptist Church, Bunnell, and Main St. Baptist Church, Leesburg.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

CLARENCE LONG

Clarence Long served as pastor of Double Branch Baptist Church (now First Baptist Church, Wesley Chapel).

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

DON LONG

Don Long served as pastor of Bradfordville Baptist Church, Tallahassee. He is married to Nora Childs.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

EDMOND LONG

Edmond Long was born in Bainbridge, Georgia. He was a graduate of New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. Long served as pastor of Rocky Bayou Baptist Church, 1980-1985.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

G. W. LONG

The death of G. W. Long was reported in the 1875 Alachua Baptist Association Minutes. He was a good and faithful minister of the gospel. Long served as pastor of Alafia Baptist Church, Lithia, 1913-1914.

Secondary Source:
Alachua Baptist Association Minutes, 1875, pp. 5-6.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

GIDEON M. LONG, JR.

Gideon M. Long, Jr. (1928-2013) was born in Greenville County of South Carolina to Gideon Madison Long (Monyo), Sr. and Ruby Lee Hooker. He was a graduate of Bob Jones University and earned graduate degrees from Southwestern Theological Seminary. He was ordained by the Colonial Heights Baptist Church in Columbia, South Carolina in 1951. He served as Corporal in the South Carolina Air National Guard in the 157th Fighter Squadron. Pastor Emeritus of Philadelphia Baptist Church, he also served as Pastor of First Baptist Church, Lyman, South Carolina for 21 years. In addition, he was Pastor at Cudd Memorial Baptist Church in Spartanburg and Parkview Baptist Church in Fort Pierce, Florida. He was married Lois Cherry of Dothan, Alabama for 52 wonderful years. They had four children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

H. M. LONG

H. M. Long served as pastor of Anthony Baptist Church and First Baptist Church, Williston.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

HOWARD L. LONG

Howard L. Long (1922-2018) was the son of Willie and Reuben Long. He graduated from the University of Florida and Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He served as pastor of Plymouth Baptist Church, Mt. Dora and Pine Grove Baptist Church, Gainesville. Long and his wife, Frances Josephine Smithe Long were married in 1944.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

J. LONG

J. Long served as pastor of Astatula Baptist Church, 1953-1954.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

J. D. LONG

J. D. Long (   -1974) served as pastor of Lebanon Baptist Church, Plant City and North Hillsborough Baptist Church, Arcadia. Wife, Emma Long.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

J. HUGH LONG

J. Hugh Long was the son of Mrs. Bonnie Long. He graduated from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. Long served as pastor of Hopewell Baptist Church, Plant City, Sardis Baptist Church, Worthington Springs and Tabernacle Baptist Church, Palatka, 1970. In 2005 he and his wife, Marilyn served as volunteers at Cold Bay Chapel in Cold Bay, Alaska.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JEWELL LONG

Jewell Long served as pastor of Ferndale Baptist Church, Apopka, 1952-1953.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JOHN LONG

John Long served as pastor of Oak Level Baptist Church and First Baptist Church, Chuluota.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JOHN M. LONG

John M. Long served as pastor of Pilgrims Rest Baptist Church, Cottondale.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JOSH LONG

Josh Long (1923- 2007) was born in Newberry, FL. Long graduated from Stetson University, DeLand. He served as pastor of Calvary Baptist Church, Deland, First Baptist Church, Barberville, Pine Grove Baptist Church, Trenton, First Baptist Church, Osteen, Paisley Baptist Church, and First Baptist Church, Eau Gallie. Long and his wife, June had five children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

MARK T. LONG

Mark T. Long (May 30, 1963- ) attended Mississippi College (B.A., 1985), and New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary (M.Div., 1988, Ph.D., 1995). Long served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Pass Christian, Mississippi (1993-1994), Perkinston Baptist Church, Perkinston, Mississippi (1994-1999), and First Baptist Church, Glendale in Hattiesburg, Mississippi (1999-2001). He was licensed in 1981, and ordained in 1988 at First Baptist Church, Gulfport, Mississippi. Long married Stephanie MacInnis. They have two children; Michael born in 1994 and Mason born in 1998. Long joined the faculty of the Baptist College of Florida in 2001 where he taught New Testament.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

STEWART I. LONG

Steward I. Long (1878-1951) served as a Baptist minister for 43 years. He served in Sullivan, Valparaiso, Madison, Richmond, and Morgan City in Indiana. He served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Sarasota, Florida, from 1926-1931. Long was a veteran of the Spanish American War and of World War I. He served as a chaplain in France with the 31st Division.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

VALDA LONG

Long,-Valda

Valda Long (1928-1984) was appointed a foreign missionary to Nigeria in 1956. She taught and served as a nurse in Nigeria and Tanzania. Due to a need for cancer treatment she returned to the United States in 1978. Long was the daughter of Madison and Hazel Long of Ona.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, December 6, 1984, p. 7.

EARL MASON LOOKABILL

Earl Mason Lookabill (1951-2009) was born in Davidson County, North Carolina, the son of Early Jacob, Jr. and Naomi Meachum Lookabill. He graduated from Piedmont Bible College. Lookabill served as pastor of Buckhead Ridge Baptist Church. He and his wife, Mary Austin Lookabill had four children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

HERBERT F. LOOMIS

Herbert F. Loomis (1872-   ) was born in E. New Market, Maryland, the son of Mr. and Mrs. F. E. Loomis. He graduated from Temple University and Crozier Seminary. Loomis served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Daytona Beach. He and his wife Alice Egerter Loomis had two children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JAMES LOPER

James Loper served as pastor of West Pittman Baptist Church, Westville, 1965-1967.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

T. PAUL LORAINE

T. Paul Loraine (   -1973) was a native Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He graduated from Carson-Newman College, Tennessee and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Loraine served as an Army chaplain during World War II. He pastored churches in New Jersey and Florida. Loraine was the first pastor of the First Baptist Church of St. Petersburg Beach, 1949-1964, and pastor of Friendship Baptist Church, 1964-1971. Wife, Lillian.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

PETER LORD

Peter Lord (1929-2021) was born in Kingston, Jamaica. He graduated from Bob Jones University and New Orleans Baptist Seminary. Lord served as pastor of churches in Gulf Hammock, FL; Ocala, FL; Sandy Hook, Miss; Pensacola, FL; West Palm Beach, FL; First Baptist Church, and Park Avenue Baptist Church, Titusville. He retired from Park Avenue in 1996 after 30 years of service. Lord and his wife Johnnie Belle Sapp Lord had five children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

RICHARD LORD

Richard Lord the son of Peter and Johnnie Lord. He served as pastor of Park Avenue Baptist Church, Titusville.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

WILLIAM H. LORD

William H. Lord (1925-1994) was born in Orlando, FL, the son of Mr. and Mrs. B. J. Lord. Lord served in the funeral profession for 23 years, graduating from the Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science. He served as director of the Florida Baptist Retirement Center, Business Division for the Florida Baptist Convention, 1970-1988. Lord and his wife JoAnne Kendrick Lord had two children. JoAnne served as associate director of the Florida Baptist Retirement Center with her husband William.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

LOUIS H. LOSCH

Louis H. Losch (1894-1985) was a native of Brooklyn, New York. He served as pastor of Parkview Baptist Church, Ft. Pierce. He and his wife had one daughter.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

THEODORE LOTT

Theodore Lott (1925-2008) was the founding pastor of Florida Gardens Baptist Church in Lake Worth. He also served as pastor of Hobe Sound, Greenacres and West Boynton Baptist. Lott participated in dozens of mission projects to South America, Africa, Ukraine, India and Korea. He and his wife Vivian had one son Paul and daughters Elizabeth, Gail and Deborah.

Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, December 18, 2008, p. 17.

KENNETH W. LOUBRIEL

Kenneth W. Loubriel graduated from the Baptist College of Florida, Graceville. He served as a church planter and founded Green Acres Baptist Church, Fort Walton Beach. Loubriel served as pastor of Beulah Baptist Church, Blue Angel Baptist Church, and Beach Haven Baptist Church all of Pensacola.

Source:
Florida Baptist Witness
, April 5, 2012, p. 6.

JAMES P. LOUCKS

James P. Loucks served as pastor of Calvary Baptist Church, Lake City.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

S. L. LOUDERMILK

S. L. Loudermilk attended Santa Fe College, Santa Fe, Maury County, Tenn. He served as pastor of Immanuel Baptist Church, Panama City, Greenwood Baptist Church, First Baptist Church, Southport and West Bay Baptist Church, Bay County (1900-1903). In 1899 Loudermilk was responsible for the organization of a church at Wolf Pond.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

L. R. LOVE

L. R. Love served as pastor of Fort McCoy Baptist Church, Marion County.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JOHN LOVELADY

John Lovelady served as pastor of churches in Maryland and Florida, including First Baptist Church, Paxton.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

MILTON C. LOVELADY

Milton C. Lovelady (1950-   ) was born in Marion Junction, AL. He graduated from Samford University, Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and the University of Louisville. Lovelady served as director of Data Processing for the Florida Baptist Convention. He and his wife Gwynne Sowell Lovelady have two children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

ROBERT LOVELL

Robert Lovell served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Longwood.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

VIRGIL O. LOVETT

Virgil O. Lovett graduated from Valdosta State College and Luther Rice Seminary. He taught high school for six years while serving as pastor of rural churches and then served four years in music evangelism. In 2004 Lovett celebrated his 35th year (1969-2004) as pastor of Trinity Baptist Church in Apopka. In the 35 years the church grew from 335 members to over 3,000 members. He and his wife, Dianne, have three sons.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, September 30, 2004, p. 15.

A. W. LOWERY

A. W. Lowery served as pastor of Olive Baptist Church, Pensacola.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

ANDREW MARTIN LOWERY

Andrew Martin Lowery (1855-1938) was the first pastor to serve Olive Baptist Church, Pensacola. in 1894. He also served as pastor of Franklin Street Baptist Church, Jacksonville. Lowery and his wife Mildred had nine children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

W. W. LOWERY

W. W. Lowery helped organize the Baptist Tabernacle in Jacksonville in 1915 where he served as pastor for eight years. Later the church was renamed Lowery Memorial Baptist Church and is now Trinity Baptist Church. Lowery served as pastor of Phoenix Baptist Church, Franklin Baptist Church, Trinity Baptist Church, and West End Baptist Church, 190-1924, all in Jacksonville.

Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, April 20, 1933, p. 7.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

FRED LOWRY

Fred Lowry graduated from Trinity Theological Seminary. He served as pastor of churches in Tennessee and Florida, including Deltona Lakes Baptist Church. He is married to Vikki Lowry.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

STEVE LOY

Steve Loy is a graduate of the Baptist College of Florida and 2014 became pastor of Spruce Creek Baptist Church in Daytona Beach. He and his wife Leah have one daughter.

Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, August 28, 2014, p. 4.

C. E. LUBIN

C. E. Lubin (1884-1940) was born in Starke, Florida. He was ordained by Main Street Baptist Church, 1923. He served as pastor of Woodstock Baptist Church. Lubin and his wife, Mayme McCallum Lubin married in 1923.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

CLAUDE E. LUCAS, SR.

Claude E. Lucas, Sr. (1922-1978) served as pastor of Wright Baptist Church, Fort Walton Beach, 1964-1966.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

W. A. LUCKIE

W. A. Luckie served as pastor of West Hill Missionary Baptist Church, (now Whitfield Memorial), Pensacola.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

J. F. LUDWIG

J. F. Ludwig was pastor of Lemon City Baptist Church in 1907. In 1908 he was pastor of Lemon City, Dania, and Silver Palm.

Source:
1907 Indian River Baptist Association Minutes, p. 16.
1908 Indian River Baptist Association Minutes, n. p.

HARRY LUMBERT

Harry Lumbert served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Taft, Mount Carmel Baptist Church and Calvary Baptist Church (1981-1983), Beulah Baptist Association. Lumbert also worked as a D. J. for WORL (91.3) radio. He and his wife Pat retired in 1987 to begin clam farming.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

MARGUERITE LUMPKIN

Marguerite Lumpkin graduated from Woman’s Missionary Union Training School. She served as WMU Young People’s Secretary for Florida from July 15-September 1, 1936.

Source:
Martha Trotter; Faithful Servants.

DAVID J. LUNDIN

David J. Lundin (1919-2013) served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Callahan from 1966 to 1973, and First Baptist Church, Bushnell. He and his wife Ann had three daughters and one son.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.
Florida Baptist Witness, July 25, 2013.

C. A. LUNDY

C. A. Lundy (1909-1989) served as pastor of Salt Springs Baptist Church, First Baptist Church, DeLeon Springs, and Pine Grove Baptist Church, Trenton. He and his wife, Rosa Harrell Lundy had one son.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

DANNY LUNDY

Danny Lundy served as pastor of Oakland Baptist Church, Perry for 50 years, the church only meets one Sunday a month. He also served as pastor of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, Perry and Midway Baptist Church, Taylor County. Lundy and his wife Treva have three children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

G. W. LUNDY

G. W. Lundy served as pastor of Goodhope Baptist Church, Baker.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

PHILIP H. LUNDY

Lundy,-Philip-H.

Philip H. Lundy (ca. 1812-1873) served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Pensacola, in 1873. He was sent to the church by the Bethlehem Association.
After only eight months at the church, the lawyer-turned-minister died of the yellow fever.

Secondary Source:
Toni Moore Clevenger. On the Bay On the Hill, pp. 65-67.

JILES B. LUNSFORD

Jiles B. Lunsford graduated from Stetson University and The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Hastings and Forest Park Baptist Church, Vero Beach (1973-1980) . He retired there December 30, 1980.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, January 24, 1980, p. 6.

M. C. LUNSFORD

M. C. Lunsford was missionary to the Indians with headquarters in Pembroke, NC. He served as pastor of Key West Baptist Church.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

PAUL LUPO

Paul Lupo pastored at churches in Georgia, Colorado and North Carolina. Lupo served as the first pastor of First Baptist Church, Fruitland Park,
1956-1960.

Source:
Forty Fruitful Years, History Lake County Association, 1924-1964

MARK LYDECKER

Mark Lydecker (1956-   ) was born in Ticonderoga, NY. He graduated from Baptist Bible College, Clark’s Summit, PA and Grand Rapids Baptist Theological Seminary, MI. Lydecker served as Baptist Collegiate Ministries Director, Tampa Area for the Florida Baptist Convention. He and his wife Lynn have two children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

T. A. LYLE

T. A. Lyle served as pastor of El-Bethel Baptist Church, Tampa.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

J. T. LYNCH

J. T. Lynch served as pastor and on the State Board of Missions. He died in 1891. He was a young man who had shown great promise.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Convention Annual, 1891, p. 15, 50.

A. W. LYNN

A. W. Lynn served as pastor of New Zion Baptist Church, Tampa.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

MARVIN LYNN

Marvin Lynn (1916-2004) was born in Preston, Iowa, the son of William, Sr. and Blanche Lynn. He served as pastor of Beach Baptist Chapel, Fort Myers Beach. Lynn and his wife, Juanita Lynn had three children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

C. H. LYONS

C. H. Lyons ( -1895) might have been the first Black minister hired by the State Board of Missions. Late in 1894 the Board secured the services of
Lyons to organize and conduct institutes for other Black church leaders. He was jointly paid by the State Board of Missions and the Convention of Black Baptists. Lyons set up an Institute in Jacksonville, Florida, but died in July 1895, before the program was fully operational.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Annual, 1895, p. 37.

ROBERT LYONS

Robert Lyons served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Esto.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

WILLIAM LYONS

William Lyons served as pastor of Grapeland Heights Baptist Church, Miami.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

H. B. LYTLE

H. B. Lytle (1903-1986) was born in Indiana, the son of Milton and Elva Bankson Lytle. He served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Bristol and Lake Mystic Baptist Church, Bristol, 1947-1952. Lytle and his wife, Willie Hazel McRae Lytle had two daughters.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

ROY E. LYTLE

Roy E. Lytle served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Terra Ceia, 1991-1994.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.