Biographies V
November 23, 2020
Biographies X
November 23, 2020

Biographies W

C. E. WADE

C. E. Wade (1915-1987) was born in Macon, Georgia. He served as pastor of Six Mile Pond Baptist Church, (now Westside Baptist Church) Zephyrhills, 1953-1954, First Baptist Church, Wahoo, Central Avenue Baptist Church, Lake Wales.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

GORDEN WADE

Gorden Wade served as pastor of Gonzalez Baptist Church.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

GUY R. WADE

Guy R. Wade (1935-1978) served as pastor of Thomas Memorial Baptist Church in Quincy from 1962 until 1965, Lakeview Church in Tallahassee
from 1965 to 1970, and St. Johns Park Baptist Church in Jacksonville from 1970 until 1976. Wade and his wife, Ruth Ann Thomas Wade, had two
sons, Guy and Gary.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, August 3, 1978, p. 6.

JAMES O. WADE

James O. Wade (1936-) was born in Summerdale, Alabama. Wade graduated from Stetson University, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary and Luther Rice Seminary. Wade served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Rockledge, First Baptist Church, Jacksonville Beach, First Baptist Church, Plant City, 1972-1977, First Baptist Church, Fort Pierce and First Baptist Church, Dover. Wade and his wife, Linda have two sons, Mark and Andrew.

Source:
History of First Baptist Church, Dover, Florida, 1904-1988.

JOEL WADE

Joel Wade served as pastor of Wekiwa Springs Baptist Church, Apopka.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

TOM WADE

Tom Wade was born in Forest Hills, Florida. he attended Trinity College, Dunedin. Wade was ordained in 1976 by Lake Carroll Baptist Church, Tampa. He served as pastor of Tampa Shores Baptist Church and Lake Carroll Baptist Church.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

W. S. WADE

W. S. Wade served as pastor of Eden Baptist Church, Brooksville, Indian Hill Baptist Church, Bushnell and Tribly Baptist Church, Dade City.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

FELIX WAGNER

Felix Wagner attended Davis Memorial Bible College, New York, Gardner-Webb College and Woffard College. Wagner pastored in many states across the county and served as pastor of Wayside Baptist Church, Miami. He and his wife Betty began a traveling ministry touring across the United States
and many other countries.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

RON WAGNER

Ron Wagner served as pastor of Shady Grove Baptist Church, Grand Ridge.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

HARRY L. WAINSCOTT

Harry L. Wainscott served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Jasper.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

NOAH WAINWRIGHT

Noah Wainwright served as pastor of Sardis Baptist Church, Worthington Springs, and New River Baptist Church, Brooker.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

WILLIAM D. WAINWRIGHT

William D. Wainwright served as pastor of San Mateo Baptist Church, 1964-1967.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

FREDERICK C. WAITE

Frederick C. Waite (1845-1893) was born in Jefferson County, New York. He was ordained in 1876 as a minister and lived and served in Georgia until moving to Pensacola in 1890. Waite served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Milton from 1889-1890. He was also known as an architect and builder. He
married Lizzie McCall and they had four children that survived her. Frederick, Lizzie, Janie and Florida were children who made their mark in
service at First Baptist Church, Pensacola and in the Southern Baptist Convention.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.
Florida Baptist Convention Annual, 1894, p. 46.

HAROLD G. WAITT

Harold G. Waitt served as pastor of Parkview Baptist Church, Ft. Pierce, 1971-1972.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

IRVIN WALDEN

Irvin Walden served as pastor of El Bethel Baptist Church, Pelot Baptist Church, Lithia, 1902, First Baptist Church, Fort Meade, Knights Baptist Church, Plant City, and Brownsville Baptist Church, Pensacola.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.
Florida Baptist Witness, March, 18, 1926, p. 10.

J. F. WALDEN

J. F. Walden (1876-1944) was a life long resident of Dover. In 1897 he married Utah Pass, and he and his wife had five daughters and four sons. Walden served as a Baptist pastor for 40 years. He served primarily in Dover, Balm, Six Mile Creek, and Seffner. He was a charter member of the Dover Church.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, November 23, 1944, p. 9.

OTIS WALDEN

Otis Walden was the son of Hoyt and Mae P. Carlan. He served as pastor of Magnolia Baptist Church, Altha, 1959-1976. He married Nellie Grace Walden and they had five children. After Mary Grace’s death Walden married Erma Lee Wiltse of  Calhoun County.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

R. O. WALDEN

R. O. Walden served as pastor of Whitecastle Baptist Church.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

RAY Y. WALDEN

Ray Y. Walden served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Lake Butler and died in 1947.

Source:
History First Baptist Church, Lake Butler, p. 12

RUBEN Y. WALDEN

Ruben Y. Walden (1863-1928) attended Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Fort Worth, Texas, Piedmont Institute, Waycross, Georgia and Columbia College, Lake City, Florida. He served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Wauchula, 1903-1906, First Baptist Church, Bronson, 1935, Stafford Pond Baptist Church, Montbrook, 1938, Franklin Street Baptist Church, Jacksonville and Ozona Baptist Church. Walden served as a minister for over 35 years. He and his wife Nanny (Nannie Jane) Branch Walden had four sons, Ruben Y., Jr., Irving, Frank and Tom.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

SYLVESTER WALDEN

Sylvester Walden (1822-1893) was born in Twiggs County, GA and was ordained in 1853. Walden served as a missionary of the Houston Association  in Georgia for five years and as pastor of Bethel Baptist Church, Socrum from 1869-1871 and 1875-1877. Walden and his wife Edna Angeline Bryant Walden had five children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Convention Annual, 1894, p. 40.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

SYLVESTER WALDEN

Sylvester Walden (1872-1953) a life long resident of Dover was the son of  L. G. and Cathrine Walden. He was affectionately known as Uncle Vess. He served as pastor at Turkey Creek, Sydney, Seffner, and other East Hillsborough churches including Dover. Walden married Jessie Simmons. They had one son, Don. Walden died February 5, 1953.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, December 24, 1953.

STEPHEN J. WALDING

Stephen J. Walding served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Lacoochee and Tribly Baptist Church, Pasco County. .

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

ODIS WALDON

Odis Waldon served as pastor of West Pittman Baptist Church, Westville.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

ORMOND WALDREN

Ormond Waldren served as pastor of Inman Park Baptist Church (aka Florence Villa).

Source:
Burr, Josephine G., History of Winter Haven Florida, p. 172.

RAY WALDRON

Ray Waldron graduated from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He served as pastor of Morriston Baptist Church.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

DENNIS WALDROP

Dennis Waldrop served as pastor of West Pittman Baptist Church, Westville, 1970-1972.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

WILL A. WALDROP

Will A. Waldrop served as pastor of Mount Nelso Missionary Baptist Church in Lake Placid.

Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, June 7, 2007, p. 20.

T. E. WALDRUP

T. E. Waldrup served as pastor of Paran Baptist Church, Grandin (1916), Gibson Memorial Baptist Church, Delray Beach, 1924, Blake Memorial Baptist Church, Lake Helen, Paran Baptist Church, Palatka,1916, and Delaney Street Baptist Church, Orlando, 1928-1935.

Source:
1924 Miami Baptist Association Minutes, p. 24.
Florida Baptist Witness, March 11, 1926, p. 7.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

RONALD WALES

Ronald Wales (1937-2015) was born in Pensacola the son of George Robert and Daisy Colley Wales. He served as pastor of Grace Missionary Baptist Church in Miami, Florida from 1968 to 1969, First Missionary Baptist Church in Pace, Florida from 1974 to 1978, and Fellowship Baptist Church, Pace. Wales and his wife Wanda Lewallen Wales had two daughters.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

ALBERT THOMAS WALKER

Albert Thomas Walker (November 19, 1910) was born at Coffeeville, Alabama. He married Agnes Smith of Ripley, Mississippi, and they attended Clark Memorial Junior College. He graduated from Clark, University of Southern Mississippi (B.S.) and New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary (B.D.). He served as pastor in Alabama, Mississippi, and Florida. Walker became pastor of Oak-Griner church in Ocala in 1963. He and his wife had a son, Jerrel, and a daughter, Cheryl Diana.

Secondary Source:
James Luffman, A History of Oak-Griner Church, pp. 101-106.

BENNY WALKER

Benny Walker served as the first pastor of First Baptist Church, Fruitland Park, 1962-1964.

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

BOB WALKER

Bob Walker served as pastor of Lake Mystic Baptist Church, Bristol.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

C. N. WALKER

C. N. Walker served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Osteen and First Baptist Church, Homestead.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

CECIL WALKER

Cecil Walker served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Laurel Hill.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

CHARLES K. WALKER

Charles K. Walker (1946-   ) was born in Winter Haven, FL. He retired in 2002 after 28 years of service with the Florida Baptist Convention. Walker retired December 31, 2002, as manager of the Lake Yale Baptist Assembly at Leesburg. Previously Walker worked as a lab technician for Dixie Lime and Stone Company and manager of Hillside Farms of Florida in Center Hill. He and his wife, Phyllis Bailey Walker, have two children.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, January 9, 2003, p. 4.

CHARLES NELSON WALKER

Charles Nelson Walker (February 2, 1891-February 17, 1977) was born at Titusville, Florida. He was the son of John Randall Walker and Hester Elizabeth Swain Walker. He had two brothers; George and Thomas, and one sister, Frieda. Walker was converted at age 20, and baptized in July, 1911, at First Baptist Church of Titusville. He was ordained on June 8, 1917. He attended Stetson Academy and then Stetson University (A.B., 1916). He also graduated from Newton Theological Institute in Newton Center, Massachusetts (B.D., 1922). Walker married Nell Flora Kruse in Key West, Florida, on January 9, 1918. They had three children; Lois (1919), Nell (1922), and Carol (1924). After the death of Nell Flora, he married Nadine Barclay Walker, and they had three daughters. Walker served as pastor of First Baptist Church in Homestead, Florida from 1922 to 1938, Bethel in Lakeland from 1938 to 1950, First Baptist Church in West Scenic Park, Florida from 1951 to 1954, Piney Grove in Cottondale, Florida from 1954 to 1957, and Pleasant Hill in Slocomb, Alabama. Walker taught at Baptist Bible Institute in Lakeland, and moved with B.B.I. to Graceville, Florida from 1950 until his retirement. After his retirement he served as pastor of First Baptist Church in Panama City Beach, and Fountain-Green Hill Community Church in Fountain.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.
Florida Baptist Witness, February 17, 1977, p. 6.

CLAUDE A. WALKER, JR.

Claude A. Walker, Jr. served as pastor of Green Pond Baptist Church, Polk City.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

CLIFFORD WALKER

Clifford Walker (1901-1975) served as pastor of First Baptist Church in Chipley (1938-1943) and First Baptist Church in Garden City (1958-1962). He worked as superintendent of city missions in Tampa (1943-1947), and as secretary of the Cooperative Missions Department of the Florida Baptist Convention (1947-1958). Walker was a graduate of Mercer University in Macon, Georgia, and The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky. He and his wife, Vena Grace, had one daughter, Mary Ruth.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, December 4, 1975, p. 6.
Joan P. Chance. First Baptist Church, Chipley, 1887-1897. p. 10.

CRAIG WALKER

Craig Walker graduated from The Baptist College of Florida and Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary (1991). He served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Fountain, and went as pastor of First Baptist Church, Parker, in 2005. He and his wife, Kim, have three sons.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, March 24, 2005, p. 11.

DAMON B. WALKER

Damon B. Walker (1924-2010) was a native of Okeechobee. He was ordained at First Baptist Church, Belleview in 1955 and served as pastor. Walker and his wife, Betty had two children.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, August 7, 1980, p. 6.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

E. C. WALKER

In the 1851 Florida Baptist Association Minutes, E. C. Walker was listed as the pastor of Bethesda Church in Wakulla County.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Association Minutes, 1851, p. 2.

GEORGE WALKER

George Walker served as pastor of Summersville Church in Madison County and died in 1854.

Source:
Florida Baptist Association Minutes, 1848, pp. 4-5; 1854, p. 9.

GERALD WALKER

Gerald Walker served as pastor of Brownsville Baptist Church, Pensacola (1954-1959).

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

J. C. WALKER

J. C. Walker served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Winter Park; First Baptist Church, Fort Pierce, First Baptist Church, Fort Lauderdale and Riverside Baptist Church, Miami. He and his wife had two children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

J. M. WALKER

J. M. Walker served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Delray Beach, 1920.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

J. R. WALKER

J. R. Walker served as pastor of McGregor Baptist Church (formerly Southside Baptist Chapel), Ft. Myers.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

J. W. WALKER

J. W. Walker served as pastor of Mount Tabor Baptist Church, Palatka (1952-1967).

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JOHN WALKER

John Walker served as pastor of Piney Grove Baptist Church, Cottondale.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

OLIVER LAFAYETTE WALKER

O. Lafayette Walker (1914-2000) graduated from Samford University and Southern Baptist Seminary. He joined the religion faculty at Stetson University in 1945. Walker became dean of the Stetson School of Religion in 1946 retiring in 1981. He served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Pierson. Walker and his wife May W. Atchison Walker had four children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

R. D. WALKER

R. D. Walker was pastor of Orange Glade Church in 1926 and First Baptist Church, High Springs.

Source:
1926 Miami Baptist Association Minutes, p. 30.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

RAY WALKER

Ray Walker served as pastor of Friendship Baptist Church, Malone.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

ROBERT WALKER

Robert Walker served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Mt. Dora (1986-2006) and served a total of 38 years in the ministry before his retirement in 2006.

Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, July 20, 2006, p. 11.

RONALD WALKER

Ronald Walker is the son of Damon and Betty Walker. He served as chaplain for eleven years at the Raiford State Prison. Walker served as pastor of Pine Grove Baptist Church, Trenton and Belleview Baptist Church where his father preceded him as pastor for 25 years. He and his wife Alice Sellers Walker have two daughters.

Source:
Harmony Baptist Association minutes, 1991, p. 60.

WARREN WALKER

Warren Walker served as pastor of Hendricks Avenue Baptist Church, Jacksonville.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

WILLIAM STOKES WALKER

William Stokes Walker served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Largo. Walker and his wife Margaret Carswell Walker (d. 1948) served as missionaries to China.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

WARREN B. WALL, SR.

Warren B. Wall, Sr. (c1921-2003) died August 21, 2003 at age 82. Wall graduated from Stetson (1949) and New Orleans Baptist Theological
Seminary. He served as a pastor for 15 years and was a prison chaplain for over 30 years in Florida and Louisiana. He and his wife, Florine
Meredith Wall, had five children.

Secondary Source:
The Alabama Baptist, September 18, 2003, p. 5.

HUGH S. WALLACE

Hugh S. Wallace served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Longwood.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

L. F. WALLER

L. F. Waller was pastor of Faith Baptist Church in Miami in 1934.

Source:
1934 Miami Baptist Association Minutes, p. 4.

S. P. WALLER

S. P. Waller served as pastor of Long Branch Baptist Church, Jacksonville.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

GENE WALSTON

Gene Walston served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Esto.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

GREG WALTERMIRE

Greg Waltermire serves as pastor of First Baptist Church, High Springs.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

A. WALTERS

A. Walters graduated from Mercer University, Macon, GA. He served as pastor of Ephesus Baptist Church, Hilliard and First Baptist Church, Macclenny, 1931-1939.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

BENJAMIN WALTERS

Benjamin Walters served as pastor of Pleasant Home Baptist Church, Holt.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

GEORGE WALTERS

George Walters served as pastor of Jackson Heights Baptist Church, Tampa.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

HUGH H. WALTERS

Hugh H. Walters (1916-1995) was born in Ashburn, Georgia. Walters was saved at age 10 and felt God was calling him to preach. He graduated from Bradford County High School in 1936 and was licensed to preach by First Baptist Church, Starke. He was ordained in 1937. Walters served as pastor at First Baptist Church, White Springs (1943-1950); First Baptist Church, La Belle; First Baptist Church, Ft. Walton Beach; Allendale Baptist Church, Jacksonville; First Baptist Church, Tenton, New River Baptist Church, Brooker, and retired from First Baptist Church, Raiford in 1980. Walters married Irma Graham on August 17, 1941 and they had one daughter, Julia Ann.

Source:
Florida Baptist Church of White Springs, pp. 20-21.

JOE JUSTIN WALTERS, JR.

Joe Justin Walters, Jr. served as pastor of Parkview Baptist Church, Ft. Pierce, 1973-1974.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JOHN CLAUDE WALTERS

John Claude Walters, Jr. (1926-2004) was born in Tampa, Florida to parents, John Claude Walters, Sr., and Myrtle Jerkins Walters. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy of WWII. Walters was ordained as a minister in 1949 in Tampa and attended both Stetson University, Deland, and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Fort Worth, TX. He served as pastor at a number of churches in Florida over a span of almost forty years, including Riverside Baptist in Tampa, Webster Avenue Baptist in Lakeland, First Baptist in Lake Worth and Wayside Baptist, Miami. Walters served as director of missions for Pinellas Baptist Association (1977-1979) and concluded his nearly 40 years of ministry as assistant executive director of the Florida Baptist Convention from 1983-1989. Walters and his wife, Mona, had two daughters, Gwyn and Vicki, and a son, David.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, January 13, 2005, p. 4.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

P. H. WALTERS

P. H. Walters died in St. Petersburg April 19, 1900. He was born and educated in Germany. He was converted while crossing the ocean in 1869.
He united with the Baptist church in 1879, and was ordained to the gospel ministry at St. Petersburg, Florida, in 1894.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Convention Annual, 1900, p. 41.

WHITNEY WALTERS

Whitney Walters served as pastor of Moultrie Baptist Church, St. Augustine.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

U. CURRY WALTON

U. Curry Walton served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Naples, 1946-1959; First Baptist Church, Matlacha and First Baptist Church, Pine Island, 1959-1978. He and his wife, Marie B. Walton had three children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

DOROTHY WAMBLE

Dorothy Wamble was born in Bonifay, Florida, and is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. O. A. Wamble. Dorothy graduated from Stetson, and received the Master of Sacred Music degree from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. Wamble taught public school music for six years, and then
served as Minister of Music at First Baptist Church in Columbus, Mississippi, First Baptist Church in Crestview, Florida, and First Baptist Church in Graceville, Florida. Wamble became Professor of Piano at Baptist Bible Institute in Graceville in 1964, and served there until retirement.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

B. M. WAMBOLT

B. M. Wambolt served as pastor of First Baptist Church, High Springs.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

M. M. WAMBOLDT

M. M. Wamboldt served as pastor of First Baptist Church in Jacksonville, 1876-1877, and First Baptist Church, Macclenny, 1890-1891. He is mentioned prominently in the 1891 Florida Baptist Convention Annual. Wamboldt also served as Chaplain of the Florida House of Representatives.

Secondary Source:
Belton S. Wall, Jr. A Tale To Be Told, p. 104.
Florida Baptist Convention Annual, 1891, pp. 6-7.

D. F. WARD

The Hamilton Baptist Association Minutes of 1893 (p. 10) clearly states that J. N. Reid and D. F. Ward came from Tennessee in 1865 and were
primarily responsible for the organization of nearly every church in the association at that time.

Secondary Source:
Hamilton Baptist Association Minutes, 1893, p. 10.

S. G. WARD

S. G. Ward served as pastor of Oakland Baptist Church, Taylor County, and Corinth Baptist Church, Jasper, 1916-1919, 1932-1934

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

S. J. WARD

S. J. Ward served as pastor of Cora Baptist Church, Jay.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

S. T. WARD

S. T. Ward served as the first pastor of First Baptist Church, Floral City for seventeen years.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

T. A. WARD

T. A. Ward was pastor of Boynton Baptist Church in 1935.

Source:
1935 Miami Baptist Association Minutes, p. 6.

ELMER W. WARE

Elmer W. Ware (1922-2010) was born in Panama City, Florida. He graduated from Stetson University and The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Ware was ordained at First Baptist Church, Jacksonville, on August 9, 1944. A. L. Carnett and Homer G. Lindsay were on his ordination council. Ware
served as pastor at First Baptist Church, Bunnell, Florida, before joining the teaching staff of Baptist Bible College in Graceville, Florida. He married Judy Dobbins of Birmingham, and they had two children, Judith and Phillip. After Judy’s death Ware married Erma Brookins Sheffield.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, August 17, 1944, p. 14.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

WALLACE WARE

Wallace Ware served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Lakeland.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

GENERAL WINFIELD SCOTT WARE

General Winfield Scott Ware (April 3, 1854-July 2, 1950) was born near Ringgold, Catoosa County, Georgia. He moved to Florida in 1866, and knew the struggles of Florida and Florida Baptists as perhaps no other man. He was baptized at age 18 and licensed to preach at age 33. He was ordained in 1887 by the Olustee Baptist Church (now Providence). Ware married Kate McCalla. They are buried in Old Providence Church Cemetery. Ware served as pastor and missionary in Florida for many years. He served as pastor of Cypress Lake, Bethlehem, Providence (1892), Providence Village (1908), Sardis, New Prospect (now Corinth), Hopeful, Phillippi, New River, Brooker, Oak Grove, Raiford, Bellville (Hamilton County), Palatka Heights (Putnam County), Pine Grove (Levy County), Bethel (Gilchrist County), Lawtey, Rock Sink, Branford, Perserverance, and Lake Butler.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, July 20, 1950, p. 16.
Minutes of Old Providence Baptist Church, pp. 111-112.

HAROLD WARNER

Harold Warner graduated from Reformed Episcopal Seminary and Trinity College. He served as a full time evangelist for 14 years, and then became pastor of First Baptist Church, Englewood, Colorado. In 1980 he went to Citrus Park Baptist Church in Tampa as pastor.

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

VANDER WARNER

Vander Warner graduated from Wake Forest and Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Virginia. He served as president of the 1973 Southern Baptist Convention Pastor s Conference, and preached at the Pastor s Conference in 1965, 1969, and 1972. He served as pastor of Grove Avenue Baptist Church in Richmond, and in 1974 went as pastor of University Baptist Church in Miami.

Secondary Source:
1856 West Florida Baptist Association Minutes.

C. A. WARREN

C. A. Warren served as pastor of Forest Grove Baptist Church, 1941-1944.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

E. W. WARREN

E. W. Warren is listed in the 1856 West Florida Baptist Association Minutes as an ordained minister living in Apalachicola.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, September 1, 1927, p. 6.

GENE WARREN

Gene Warren was born in Brandenton, Florida. He served as pastor of Corinth Baptist Church, Newberry; Ochwilla Baptist Church, Melrose; Eden Baptist Church, Hawthorne and Trinity Baptist Church, Palatka. He and his wife Nora Lee Warren have four children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

HAROLD WARREN

Harold Warren served as pastor of First Black Creek Baptist Church, Penney Farms.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

L. R. WASDIN

L. R. Wasdin served as pastor of East Palatka First Baptist Church, 1934-1938.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JAMES WASHER

James Washer served as pastor of Ojus Baptist Church.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

J. C. WATER

J. C. Water served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Osteen.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JIM WATER

Jim Water graduated from the University of Florida, Gainesville and New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. He served as pastor of Friendship Baptist Church, Milton. Water and his wife Rhonda have two sons.

Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, November 3, 2011, p. 4.

R. W. WATERMAN

R. W. Waterman was born in Massachusetts. He served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Graceville (1947-1954), and he and businessman, George W. Morrow were the Graceville prime movers in getting Baptist Bible Institute to move there from Lakeland. Waterman was born, raised, and educated in Massachusetts. He was descended on his mother s side from the Coney family, a well known family of educators. He was raised Methodist, and was apprenticed to a firm of New England silversmiths. In 1922 he married Clara Watson of Providence, Rhode Island. In 1926 Waterman was struck by an illness that appeared to be terminal. He was seriously ill for one year, and it was out of this crisis that he was called to preach. He and Clara moved south because of his health needs, and he became pastor of the Baptist Church in Hazelhurst, Georgia. He served also at Baxley, Kingsland, Folkston, and Jessup in Georgia before going to Graceville in 1947. Upon leaving Graceville in 1954, Waterman became pastor of Eagle Lake Baptist Church in Winter Haven.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, March 31, 1949, p. 5.
Graceville, Florida. A Personal History, pp. 77-81.

E. LAVELLE WATERS

E. Lavelle Waters served as pastor of Indian Springs Baptist Church, Tallahassee 1948-1949 and First Baptist Church, Crawfordville.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

T. H. WATERS

T. H. Waters served as pastor of Oakdale Baptist Church, Newberry, 1962-1966.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

GENE L. WATERSON

Gene L. Watterson (1929-2014) was born in Decatur, Alabama, he was the son of the late Eva Rose and Alton Watterson. Watterson was a veteran of the US Navy and served in the Atlantic theater during WWII. He graduated from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest, North Carolina. He served as pastor of Woodlawn Baptist Church in Colonial Heights, VA, First Baptist Church of Crestview, FL, Murray Hill Baptist Church of Jacksonville, FL and for 26 years as pastor of First Baptist Church in Shelby, NC. He was married to the late Yvonne Caudle for 52 years and they had three children. He was survived by his wife Dorothy Camp Elliott of Birmingham, Alabama. Source: Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

Secondary Source:
History of First Baptist Church, Crestview, p. 22.

DOUGLAS WATKINS

Douglas Watkins (1959-) is a native of Ohio and graduated from the University of Central Florida and Southern Seminary. He served with the
International Mission Board in Brazil, minister of education at First Baptist Church, Winter Garden from 1991-1994 and Director of Church Growth and Development at The Greater Orlando Baptist Association 2003-2006. In 2006 Watkins was named as an Associate Director in the Sunday School Department of the Florida Baptist Convention.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, November 23, 2006, p. 4.

F. H. WATKINS

F. H.Watkins served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Live Oak.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

DOUGLAS WATKINS

Douglas Watkins (1982-   ) was born in Columbus, OH. He graduated from the University of Central Florida, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary and New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. Watkins and his wife, Janet, served as missionaries to Brazil, 1996-2003. He served as director, Theological Education and Distance Learning for the Florida Baptist Convention, 2006-2015. Watkins is now serving as senior pastor of First Baptist Church, Bushnell. He and his wife, Janet, have four children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JESSE WATKINS

Jesse Watkins served as pastor of Ephesus Baptist Church, Hilliard.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

KENNETH H. WATKINS

Kenneth H. Watkins graduated from Golden Gate Seminary. He served as pastor of Keen Terrace Baptist Church.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

L. F. WATSON

L. F. Watson served as pastor of Oak Grove Baptist Church, Escambia County.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

L. J. WATSON

L. J. Watson served as pastor of Poplar Dell Baptist Church, Bratt, Ray’s Chapel, and Pine Barron Baptist Church, Davisville.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

MELVIN Z. WATSON

Melvin Z. Watson (1919-2010) was born in Tampa, FL to Zebblon and Daisy Mae Sweat Watson. He served as pastor of Long Branch Baptist, MT. Zion Baptist, both of Jacksonville, Graham Baptist, Graham, and Crystal Springs Baptist Church, Jacksonville. Watson and his wife Sadie Caldwell Watson had four children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

S. L. WATSON

S. L. Watson served as pastor of Long Branch Baptist Church, Jacksonville.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

TOMMY WATSON

Tommy Watson served as pastor of First Church of Perrine from 1960 until his retirement in the ministry. In 1980 he celebrated his 20th anniversary at Perrine.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, October 9, 1980, p. 6

CHARLES L. WATTENBERGER

Charles L. Wattenberger served as pastor of Union Hill Baptist Church, 1961, First Baptist Church, Esto and the Baptist Church in Sneads.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

DOUGLAS WATTERSON

In 1958 Douglas Watterson left West Point Baptist Church in West Point, Kentucky, to become pastor of First Baptist Church in Marianna where he served from 1958 to 1964. Watterson left Marianna to become pastor at Vero Beach. In 1970, Watterson served as president of the Florida Baptist State Convention.

Secondary Source:
Leitch, Christ Centered Century, pp. 33-42.

J. A. WATTS

J. A. Watts served as pastor of Hatch Bend Baptist Church, Branford.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

RODNEY WATTS, SR.

Rodney Watts, Sr. (1932-2015) was born in Lamont, Florida, the son of Robert and Corrine Watts. He served as pastor of Shady Grove Baptist Church, Taylor County, 1985 and San Pedro Baptist Church, Perry. Watts and his wife Myrtle had four children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

CHASTAIN VALENTINE WAUGH

Chastain Valentine Waugh was a native of Manchester, Virginia. He was the son of Andrew and S. F. Waugh. He was converted in 1865, and baptized in February 1866, by W. E. Hatcher. Waugh felt the call to preach from the time of his baptism, but had few education opportunities. He self-taught Greek, Latin, and music composition. He did attend Richmond College, but poor health plagued his formal education efforts. He was ordained March 9, 1873, and studied at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Greenville, South Carolina in 1874. He worked as pastor in Virginia before moving to Florida in 1876. Upon the recommendation of J. H. Tomkies, the first pastor of the Gainesville Baptist Church, Waugh succeeded him. He also served as pastor of First Baptist Church, West Palm Beach and First Baptist Cresent City. In November 1878, Waugh married Fannie Howard McGill of Covington, Kentucky. Waugh died in Jacksonville in 1934.

Secondary Source:
Compendium of Georgia Baptists, pp. 565-567.
George C. Osborn. The First Baptist Church, Gainesville, Florida, 1870-1970, pp. 3-6.
Florida Baptist Convention Annual, 1935, p. 7.

JAMES C. WAUFFORD

James C. Waufford served as the first pastor (part time) of Shalimar Baptist Chapel.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

EDGAR WAYBRIGHT

Edgar Waybright (1890-1957) was born in Willowdell, OH to Samuel and Elizabeth Waybright. He graduated from Stetson University, DeLand. Waybright served as pastor of  First Baptist Church, Crescent City, and First Baptist Church, Fernandina Beach. He served in the Florida House of Representatives from Duval County in 1918, 1919 and 1925. He was a state senator from Duval county 1927-1929. Waybright and his wife Irma had two children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

H. C. WAYMAN

H. C. Wayman served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Sarasota.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

WALLACE WEAR

Wallace Wear served as pastor of First Baptist Church Lakeland from 1914-1918.

Secondary Source:
Alice M. Muir, A Historic Sketch, pp. 20-22.

DANIEL A. WEAVER

Daniel A. Weaver served as pastor of Pasadena Baptist Church, St. Petersburg.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JERRY WEAVER

Jerry Weaver (1944-2018) was born in Paragould, AK to Holland and Ina Weaver. Weaver graduated from Union Academy, Huntingdon, TN, and
Luther Rice Seminary. He served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Panama City Beach and North Bay Chapel, Deerpoint. Weaver served as the first
Chaplain of the Panama City Beach Police Department for 27 years. He and his wife Sandra had a daughter, Deniece.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

LARRY WEAVER

Larry Weaver served as pastor of Parkwood Baptist Church, Jacksonville.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

MARK WEAVER

Mark Weaver graduated from Stetson University and The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He served as pastor of Calvary Church, Arcadia
(1975-1980) before going as pastor of Pinecrest Church, Sanford in 1980.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, October 2, 1980, p. 6.

ROBERT N. WEAVER

Robert N. Weaver served as pastor of Westside Baptist Church, Zephyrhills, 1959-1963.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

CARL A. WEBB

Carl A. Webb died in 1976 after serving faithfully a number of churches in the Madison area including Elizabeth Baptist Church. He also served as pastor of Shady Grove Baptist Church, Perry. Webb was married to Gracie Hicks Webb.

Source:
1976 Middle Florida Association Minutes, p. 33.

CHARLES A. WEBB

Charles A. Webb served as pastor of First Baptist Church in Live Oak from 1965-1980. He retired in January 1980, and entered an interim ministry by serving at First Baptist Church in Tavares.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, February 28, 1980, p. 10.

J. B. WEBB

J. B. Webb served as pastor of Lady Lake Baptist Church, 1932 and First Baptist Church, Williston.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JOE H. WEBB

Joe H. Webb (1926-2016) served as state director of the Florida Baptist Convention’s Student Department (now Collegiate Ministries) from 1958 until his retirement in 1990. Prior to being named state director, the Mississippi native served as campus minister at the University of Florida between 1956 and 1958; and as the South-Georgia area Baptist Student Union director from 1954-1956. Webb was a graduate of Mississippi State University and The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Ky. He received an honorary doctor of divinity from Stetson University in 1990. He and his wife, Peggy had two daughters.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

L. A. WEBB

L. A. Webb served as pastor of Eden Baptist Church, Brooksville.

Source: Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

M. J. WEBB

M. J. Webb served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Milligan and St. Andrews Baptist Church, Panama City.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

R. WEBB

R. Webb is listed as the pastor in Chattahoochee in the 1855.

Secondary Source:
West Florida Baptist Association Minutes, 1855, p. 8.

T. M. WEBB

T. M. Webb served as pastor of Corinth Baptist Church, Jasper, 1915-1916.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

WILLIAM P. WEBB

William P. Webb is a native of Orlando and celebrated his 50th anniversary in the ministry on March 14, 2004. He graduated from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and served as a U. S. Army chaplain from 1967-1993. Webb served as pastor of Park Avenue Baptist Church, Winter Garden, Westside Baptist Church in Lakeland, First Baptist Church in Waverly, and Bethany Baptist Church in Plant City. For the past ten years Webb has served as pastor of First Baptist Church in Ridge Manor. He and his wife, Linda, have three children.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, March 11, 2004, p. 10.

ED D. WEBBER

Ed D. Webber served as pastor of First Baptist Church of Seabreeze (now Calvary Baptist Church), Daytona Beach, 1923-1930.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

GARY LEE WEBBER

Gary Lee Webber graduated from Jacksonville University and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. In 2008 he became pastor of Southside
Baptist Church, Jacksonville. He and his wife Sheri have four children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, October 23, 2008, p. 11.

GRADY A. WEEKS

Grady A. Weeks (1909-1994) served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Cedar Key, Salt Springs Baptist Church, Citra and Hicks Road Baptist Chapel, Port Richey. He was married to Inez Lanier Weeks.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

SILAS WEEKS

Silas Weeks served as pastor of The Peniel Lighthouse, Palatka and New River Baptist Church, Brooker.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

 GEORGE N. WEHRMAN

George N. Wehrman (1909-1997) was born in Paducah, KY. He served as pastor of Heights Baptist Chapel, Lakeland, Hopewell Baptist Church, Lakeland, First Baptist Church, Wabasso, First Baptist Church, Punta Gorda, Northside Baptist Church, Tampa, 1972-1974, and North Temple Terrace Baptist Church, Tampa. Wehrman served as chaplain of South Florida Baptist Hospital, Plant City. He and his wife Elouise M. had one son, David.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

CHARLES WEIMER

Charles Weimer served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Crescent City.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

SCOTT WEINMANN

Scott Weinmann served as pastor of Scenic Heights Baptist Church, Pensacola.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

BOBBY WELCH

Bobby Welch was born in Fort Payne, Alabama. He has been pastor of First Baptist Church in Daytona Beach since 1974. He is a decorated Viet Nam veteran, and a graduate of Jacksonville State University and New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. Welch and Doug Williams created the FAITH
evangelism strategy that is used widely across the Southern Baptist Convention. He served as president of the Florida Baptist Convention in 1989 and as President of the Southern Baptist Convention in 2004-2005. He and his wife, Maudellen, have two children, Matthew and Haylee.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, July 3, 2003, pp. 1,4.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JOHNNY WELDON

Johnny Weldon is a native of Jacksonville, Florida. He graduated from the Moody Bible Institute and Columbia University, SC. Weldon and his wife Rachel served as missionaries in Belize as a pastor. He also pastored churches in Chicago, South Carolina and Florida, including Moultrie Baptist Church, St. Augustine. The Weldon’s have two children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

C. RICHARD WELLS

C. Richard Wells served as pastor of Beulah Baptist Church, Winter Garden.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

CHARLES FRANKLIN WELLS

Charles Franklin Wells (1882-1969) was born in Madison, Florida, the son of Francis and Sarah Wells. He was a circuit-riding preacher in Pioneer Florida and served as pastor of Hardaway Baptist Church, 1912, 1917, 1919; Sycamore Baptist Church, 1912, 1914; Telogia Baptist Church, 1915-1916; St. Marks Baptist Church, 1917; Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, 1918-1920; First Baptist Church, Crawfordville, 1920; Lake Ellen Baptist Church, 1920; Ebenezer Baptist Church, Jefferson County, 1920; Sundown Baptist Church, 1920; First Baptist Church, Woodville, 1920; and Lake Mystic Baptist Church, Bristol. Wells and his wife, Sadie Mae Morgan Wells had seven children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

E. L. WELLS

E. L. Wells served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Quincy.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

EDMUND WELLS

Edmund Wells served as pastor of Blake Memorial in 1901 and lived at Lake Helen.

Source:
Indian River Baptist Association Minutes, 1901, p. 14.

F. W. WELLS

F. W. Wells served as pastor of Mount Tabor Baptist Church, Palatka.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

FRANCIS MARION WELLS

Francis Marion Wells (b. 1847; d. 1928), a Georgia native, was a distinguished minister of the gospel in the Panhandle of Florida.  Wells’ initial ministry was as an itinerant preacher who rode a circuit of counties including Gadsden, Leon, Jefferson, Madison, Taylor, Wakulla and Liberty.  He served as pastor of the Elizabeth Baptist Church, Monticello, between 1885 and 1889.  Wells subsequently went on to serve 40 years at the Providence Baptist Church, Quincy, 1889 to 1928, while later concurrently serving other churches parttime, including: Concordia Baptist Church, 1903; Sunny Dell Baptist Church, 1908, 1912; Flat Creek Baptist Church, 1909-1913, 1916-1919; River Junction Baptist Church, 1913; and the Antioch Baptist Church, 1914-1915.  He served as the elected Moderator of the Florida Baptist Association for 15 consecutive years (1900 – 1914) of annual meetings.  He and his wife Sarah Catherine Coker had two children, a son, Franklin and daughter, Ruthie.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.
Florida Baptist Association, Annuals, 1900 – 1914
Linda Gramling Demott, Elizabeth Baptist Church: The Story of a Pioneer Baptist Church on Mission, 1831 – 2023.

J. R. WELLS

J. R. Wells (1870-1945) was born in Bibb County, AL. He was educated in Howard College and served as pastor to churches in Alabama, Georgia, and Florida. He served as pastor of 46 different churches in his ministry (24 churches in Alabama, 19 in Florida, and 3 in Georgia). In Florida, Wells served as pastor of Knights Baptist Church, Plant City, and the First Baptist Churches of Wauchula, Frostproof, Kathleen, Largo, Dundee, Dunedin, Jennings, and Auburndale. Wells and his wife had four sons and one daughter. Wells was known for his Bible prophecy conferences and led these meetings in over 250 different churches in the tristate area. He died in Lakeland on April 26, 1945. He and his wife, Laura Ann McCraw Wells had seven children.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, May 10, 1945, p. 13.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JOHN W. WELLS

John W. Wells served as pastor of Union Baptist Church (now First Baptist Church, Elfers), 1876-1877.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

THOMAS A. WELLS

Thomas A. Wells was born in Gowanda, New York, but lived in Tampa and Homestead growing up. Jennifer Jones Wells was born in Tampa. He
graduated from Baylor (B.S.) and New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. She graduated from Norman College and the University of Florida. The Wells were appointed to work in Korea in 1980 with the Foreign Mission Board of the Southern Baptist Convention.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, October 30, 1980, p. 7.

Q. E. WELLS

Q. E. Wells served as pastor of Oak Grove Baptist Church, Escambia County.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

J. H. WENTWORTH

In 1877 J. H. Wentworth was pastor of six churches in the Florida Association. He died in 1893 after serving faithfully in the Pensacola Bay Association.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Convention Annual, 1894, p. 40.
Florida Baptist Association Minutes, 1877, p. 15.

C. S. WEMP

C. S. Wemp served as pastor of Central Baptist Church, Pensacola.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

MARTHA WENNERBERG

Martha Wennerberg (1932-2008) was born Martha Ellen Leathers to James Allen and Claudia Kelly Leathers. She graduated from Furman University and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Wennerberg served as Florida Woman’s Missionary Union President 1984-1989. She and her husband, Don Wennerberg had two daughters.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

ROSCOE WENTWORTH

Roscoe Wentworth served as pastor of Lake Mystic Baptist Church, Bristol.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

A. B. WEST

A. B. West served as pastor of Forest Grove Baptist Church, Alachua, 1927.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

G. R. WEST

G. R. West (1914-) attended Central Bible College, Springfield, MO. He served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Eau Gallie. West married Edith Hite of Covington, KY.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

W. F. WEST, JR.

W. F. West, Jr. served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Groveland.

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

WALTER WEST

Walter West became co-pastor of Anastasia Baptist Church in St. Augustine in 2008.

Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, March 6, 2008, p. 11.

KENNETH WESTBROOK

Kenneth Westbrook (1942-   ) was born in Yazoo City, MS. He graduated from Mississippi College and New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. Westbrook served churches in Mississippi, Louisiana, and Florida. He served as Director of the Pastoral Ministries and Church Growth departments of the Florida Baptist Convention. In 1997 Westbrook became pastor of Northwest Baptist Church in Gainesville, and he retired in 2006. He and his wife, Linda, have two children.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, March 30, 2006, p. 14.

JOHN W. WESTBURGH

John W. Westburgh served as pastor of Astatula Baptist Church, 1931.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

THOMAS F. WESTMARK

Thomas F. Westmark (1882-1964) was the son of John M. and Caroline A. Westmark. He served as pastor of Brent Baptist Church and was the founding minister of East Brent Baptist Church, Pensacola (1947-1953). Westmark and his wife Willie Mae Jackson Westmark had one daughter.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

FLETCHER WESTON

Fletcher Weston served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Hernando.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JOHN WETMORE

John Wetmore served as pastor of Plymouth Baptist Church, Mt. Dora.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JOHN WHALEY

John Whaley served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Crawfordville.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

J. U. H. WHARTON

J. U. H. Wharton (1854-1925) was born in Pine Bluff, AR. In March of 1874 he married Mattie May who died in 1891. Wharton married Alice Smith of Farmerville, Louisiana in 1892. He had three sons. Wharton was ordained to preach in 1875 and even though unable to attend seminary, he attended Mt. Lebanon University and received his doctorate in 1903. He pastored churches in Arkansas, Louisiana and Florida, including First Baptist Church, Lake City.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JOHN SAMUEL WHARTON

John Samuel Wharton served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Fernandina Beach and First Baptist Church, Kissimmee.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

S. L. WHATLEY

S. L. Whatley served as pastor of Emporia Baptist Church Pierson.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

DAVID WHEAT

David Wheat served as pastor of First Baptist Church, (2000-2007).  Holt.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

HUEL GRADY WHEELER, SR.

Huel Grady Wheeler, Sr. (March 18, 1891) was born in Arab, Alabama. He was a graduate of Howard College and The Southern Baptist Theological
Seminary. He married Mary Fitzgerald Griggs of Marlbury, Alabama, and they had three children. Wheeler served as a Baptist pastor for over 40 years in Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, and Florida. He served as pastor of First Baptist Church Ocala, Grace Baptist Church in Clermont, and Webster Avenue Baptist Church in Lakeland. He retired in 1956 and served numerous interim pastorates in central Florida.

Secondary Source:
James Luffman, A History of Oak-Griner Church, pp. 86-87.

J. T. WHEELER

J. T. Wheeler served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Ovideo.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

J. W. WHEELER

J. W. Wheeler served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Laurel Hill, Sandy Creek Baptist Church and Westville Baptist Church.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

RICHARD WHEELER

Richard Wheeler received the M.A. degree and the Doctor of Education degree from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He served in banking for ten years and served as associate pastor of Mandarin Baptist Church in Jacksonville from 2000-2003. In 2006, Wheeler became director of the Office of Leadership Development of the Florida Baptist Convention. In 2011, Wheeler became Director of Missions for the Jacksonville Baptist Association. He and his wife, Camille have two daughters.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, November 23, 2006, p. 4.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

VERNON WHEELER

Vernon Wheeler (1929-1982) served as pastor in Georgia and Florida. His Florida pastorates included Hopewell Baptist Church in Madison County,
and Lamont Baptist Church in Lamont from 1976 to 1982. He and his wife, Jimmie Nell Wheeler, had two daughters, Susan and Laura, and one son, Sam.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, March 4, 1982, p. 6.

W. P. WHEELER

W. P. Wheeler was pastor of Lake Worth Baptist Church in 1925 and Lady Lake Baptst Church, 1941-1943.

Source:
1925 Miami Baptist Association Minutes, p. 33.

Z. G. WHEELER

In 1845 Z G. Wheeler was pastor of Union Baptist Church in Jefferson County, Florida. In 1860 he was pastor of Au Cella in Jefferson County, Florida and Shiloh in Madison County, Florida.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Association Minutes, 1845, p. 8; 1860.

CHARLES WHETSEL

Charles Whetsel (1936-2021) was born in Canton, Ohio, the son of Charles and Dorothy Whetsel. He graduated from Baptist Bible Institute, Graceville. Whetsel served as pastor of Unity Baptist Church, near Vernon, and Northside Baptist Church, Fort Pierce. He and his wife, Evelyn Nolf Whetsel had three children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

J. ROBERT WHIDDEN

J. Robert Whidden served as pastor of Indian Springs Baptist Church, Tallahassee 1950.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

B. W. WHILDEN

B. W. Whilden served as pastor of First Baptist Church in Jacksonville from 1873-1875.

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

HARRY ALTA WHIPPLE

Harry Alta Whipple (1896-1944) was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan. His family moved to Oakland, California where he grew up on the Pacific Coast. He served as a Lieutenant in the Army Medical Corps in World War I. He married Mazie Christopher, and they had five sons; Harry A. Jr., Richard, Gary, David, and Danny. In 1926 the family moved to Florida. Whipple was converted in 1932 while in the hospital at Key West. He became assistant pastor of Opa Locka Baptist Church in Miami, and then became pastor of West Little River Baptist Church in that city. He died on April 5, 1944.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, May 11, 1944, p. 6.

RICHARD EARL WHIPPLE, SR.

Richard Earl Whipple, Sr. (1925-2016) was born in Atlanta, Georgia, the son of Harry and Mazie Whipple. He graduated from Stetson University (B.A., 1952) and Immanuel Seminary of Atlanta (Th.B., 1955; and D.D. in 1955). Whipple served in the United States Navy from 1943-1946. Whipple served as pastor of Lakeview Baptist Church, Miami (1952-1966), First Baptist Church, Okeechobee (1966-1996), and First Baptist Church, Labelle (1972). He married Annette Chester Whipple and they had four children; Richard, Randall, Robin, and Rhonda.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

CARL F. WHIRLEY
ENID PATE WHIRLEY

Carl F. Whirley (1914-2000) was born in South Port, Florida, and considered Bagdad, Florida, his hometown. He graduated from Howard College, and received his masters and doctor of theology degrees from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He and his wife, Enid Pate Whirley, had a thirty-three year career as missionaries to Nigeria. Enid Pate Whirley attended Howard College and Woman s Missionary Union Training School. Upon retirement from the mission field (1947-1980) the Whirleys lived in Birmingham where Dr. Whirley taught at Samford University. They had four children.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, November 6, 1980, p. 9.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

DANIEL C. WHITAKER

Daniel C. Whitaker served as pastor of Westside Baptist Church, Gainesville, 1969-1973. He is married to Joyce Whitaker.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

BILLY W. WHITE

Billy W. White (1947-2006) was a native of North Carolina and served 22 years in the United States Air Force. He served churches in Germany, Idaho,
Alaska, and Florida. At the time of his death, he was serving as pastor of Live Oak Baptist Church in Crestview. He and Becky, his wife of 37 years had two daughters, Wendy and Sandra.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, September 21, 2006, p. 13.

BOB WHITE

Bob White served as pastor of Trinity Baptist Church, Palatka.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

C. J. WHITE

C. J. White served as pastor of Friendship Baptist Church, Malone.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

CHARLES WHITE

Charles White graduated from University of South Florida and Southwestern Seminary, Fort Worth. White has served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Lutz since 1989. He and his wife Debi have three children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

CHARLES M. WHITE

Charles M. White graduated from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Ft. Worth. He served as pastor of Calvary Baptist Church, St. Augustine and First Baptist Church, Cocoa.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

G. M. WHITE

G. M. White served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Hastings.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

GENE WHITE

Gene White graduated from Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary, Memphis and the University of Mobile. He served as pastor of Highland Baptist Church, Molino and Skycrest Baptist Church, Clearwater

Source:
Skycrest Baptist Church, Clearwater History, p. 51.

J. J. WHITE

J. J. White served as pastor of Bethesda Baptist Church, Damascus Baptist Church, Graceville, Rehobeth Baptist Church, Memphis Baptist Church, and Campbellton Baptist Church, 188-1892.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

J. R. WHITE

J. R. White served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Vero Beach, First Baptist Church, DeFuniak Springs, First Baptist Church, Fort Pierce and Main Street Baptist Church, Jacksonville. He and his wife had four children.

Source: 50 Years 1905-1955.

J. W. WHITE

J. W. White served as pastor of Friendship Baptist Church, Malone and First Baptist Church, Cottondale.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JACK WHITE

Jack White is a native of Sebring, Florida. He has served as pastor in Florida and North Carolina. In 2004 White went to First Baptist Church, Zolfo Springs as pastor. He and his wife, Linda, have two children.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, June 17, 2004, p. 11.

JACOB LEE WHITE

Jacob Lee White (September 6, 1862-November 25, 1948) was born in Forsyth County, North Carolina. He was the son of John and Martha White.
He graduated from Wake Forest College (B.A., 1881; D.D.). He also received the L.L.D. from Stetson University (1934). White married Dovie Poston of Shelby, North Carolina, on September 22, 1886. They had nine children; Lee, Hubert, Mable, Royal, J. L. Jr., Charles, Russell, Edward, and Martha. White came to First Baptist Church in Miami, Florida, in 1916. At that time there were only ten churches in the Miami Association, with a total membership of 1,461. White lived to see the association grow to 43 churches and 19,792 members. First Baptist Church in Miami organized July 26, 1896, with sixteen members. W. E. Stanton and John A. Wray served as pastors before White arrived. In time First Baptist supported 55 foreign missionaries, and organized seven new churches in the Miami area. They organized Stanton Memorial, Riverside, Southside, University, Opa Locka, Miami Beach, and West Temple. White served some of the most influential churches of his day as pastor. He served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Raleigh, North Carolina; First Baptist Church, Macon, Georgia (1895-1906); First Baptist Church, Miami (1916-1936); and the Mable White Memorial Baptist Church of Macon; First Baptist Church, Miami, was renamed Central Baptist Church in 1936. The Mabel White Church in Macon was named as a memorial to his daughter Mable. Dr. White started the Mabel White Church as a mission. White served as president of the Florida Baptist Convention (1924-1925), as a member of the Foreign Mission Board (1918-1935), as trustee at Bessie Tift College (1895-1905) and as a trustee at Stetson University (1925-1947). White preached the Southern Baptist Convention annual sermon in 1934 at Washington, D.C. His four minister sons sat on the platform as he preached.

Secondary Source:
Martha L. Reiner, Belief in The City, p. 21.

JAMES WHITE

James White served as pastor of Florahome Baptist Church, 1977. He resigned from Florahome and started First Baptist Church, George’s Lake.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JAMES E. WHITE

James E. White served as pastor of Tribly Baptist Church, Pasco County, 1969-1972.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JAMES L. WHITE

James L. White died December 9, 1949. He was one of the four preacher sons and the name sake of Dr. Jacob Lee White (1862-1848) who served so
faithfully at First Baptist Church in Miami, Florida. White served as pastor in Virginia and North Carolina. His son was James L. White III. James
L. White also served as football coach at the University of Florida in the 1920s.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, December 22, 1949, p. 13.

JAMES T. WHITE

James T. “Jim” White (1947-2017) was born in Waycross, GA to the late Nesbitt and Catherine White. White served as pastor for Providence Village
Baptist Church, Beulah Baptist Church, Lake Asbury Baptist Church. He and his wife, Sandra, had two children, Jennifer and James.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JERRY R. WHITE

Jerry R. White (1941-   ) was born in Caddo Mills, TX. He graduated from East Texas State University, University of Texas, and Kennesaw State University. White served as director of the Human Resources Office for the Florida Baptist Convention. He and his wife, Shirley, have three children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JIM WHITE

Jim White served as pastor of Hobe Sound Baptist Church, 1973-1976.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JOE W. WHITE

Joe W. White (1869-1950) died in a Dothan, Alabama hospital on December 9, 1950. He was a native of Jackson County and served many churches in the Graceville area including First Baptist Church, Cottondale, Damascus Baptist Church, Graceville and First Baptist Church, Malone (1912-1915). White encouraged all Jackson County churches to give and to witness.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.
Florida Baptist Witness, June 22, 1944, p. 4; December 21, 1950, p. 13.

JOHN J. WHITE

John White served as pastor of Bethesda in Geneva County, Alabama, in 1878.

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

L. B. WHITE

L. B. White served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Live Oak.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

LEON S. WHITE

Leon S. White (1941-   ) was born in Dothan, AL. He graduated from Samford University, New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary and Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. White served as church extension consultant for the Church Extension Department of the Florida Baptist Convention. He and his wife, Sarah Tyler White, have two children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

RANDY WHITE

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

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

ROBERT WHITE

Robert White was born in Congress Park, Illinois. He attended Denver University. White was ordained in 1946 by Brownsville Baptist Church, Florida. He served as pastor of Fletcher Baptist Church, Tampa, Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church, High Springs, Trinity Baptist Church, Palatka, Hillcrest Baptist Church and First Baptist Church, Pomona Park. White and his wife Leeta Shealy White have three daughters and a foster son.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

RUSSELL C. WHITE

Russell C. White was the son of Dr. Jacob Lee White and served as pastor of Stanton Memorial Baptist Church in 1936.

Source:
1936 Miami Baptist Association Minutes, p. 6.

T. W. WHITE

T. W. White died in 1919. He served as pastor of Oak Grove Baptist Church, Wauchula, 1901, 1911 and  New Zion Baptist Church, Hardee County. White was a member of New Hope Church in the Peace River Association at the time of his death

Secondary Source:
Peace River Association Minutes, 1920, p. 17.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

TAYLOR WHITE

Taylor White served as pastor of West Pittman Baptist Church, Westville, 1938-1939.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

W. E. “GENE” WHITE

W. E. “Gene” White (1946-2012) graduated from Stetson University and New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. He served as pastor of Narcoossee Baptist Church, St. Cloud, Westside Baptist Church, Wewahitchka, and Ensley Memorial Baptist Church, Pensacola. White and his wife, Patricia White, had four children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

W. RALEIGH WHITE

W. Raleigh White was a native of Askewville, North Carolina. He graduated from Shenandoah Junior College, Richmond University, and The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He came to Florida in 1920, and served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Lake City (1920-1923). He then became pastor of First Baptist Church in Plant City.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, August 18, 1927, p. 11.

R. H. WHITEHEAD

R. H. Whitehead served as pastor of Palmetto Baptist Church and died on July 23, 1912.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Convention Annual, 1912, p. 93.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

ALBERT WHITEHOUSE

Albert Whitehouse served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Okahumpka.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

H. WHITEHURST

H. Whitehurst was pastor of Hopewell Baptist Church and Elizabeth Batpist Church in Jefferson County in 1845. The Hopewell Church was in the Florida Baptist Association.

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

T. P. WHITFIELD

T. P. Whitfield served as pastor of Clay Sink Baptist Church.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JAMES WHITLATCH

James Whitlatch served as pastor of Northgate Baptist Church, Tampa.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

WILLIAM WILTSHIRE WHITFIELD

William Wiltshire Whitfield (1851-1909) was born in Columbus, Mississippi and was ordained at FBC, Columbus, Mississippi in 1892. He served as a pastor of FBC, Kosciusko and other Baptist churches for 16 years. He became pastor of West Hill Baptist Church in Pensacola in July, 1909 and served there a very short time before his death.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Convention Annual, 1910, p. 74.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JACK WHITLEY

Jack Whitley (1930-2018) was born in Alton, Alabama. He graduated from Howard College and Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Whitley was a longtime pastor in the Jacksonville area before retiring in 1999. After serving churches in Alabama, Jack and Helen joined the Southern Baptist Foreign Mission Board and served in Costa Rica, Venezuela and Bermuda. Whitley served as of pastor at Avondale Baptist Church in 1970, First Baptist Church of Middleburg in 1982, Ortega Baptist in 1992 and First Baptist Church, Raiford. He and his wife Helen had four children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

WARREN WHITMORE

Warren Whitmore served as pastor of Woodlawn Baptist Church, Okaloosa County.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JACK D. WHITSON

Jack D. Whitson (1930-1976) died of a heart attack while serving as pastor of Delaney Street Baptist Church in Orlando. He was a native of Esserville,
Virginia, and a graduate of East Tennessee State University, and The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky. He served as
pastor of First Baptist Church, Etowah, Tennessee, for seven years before going to Delaney Street. Whitson and his wife, Martha, had four children;
Elaine, Fred, Beth, and Bill.

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

JOHN HOWARD WHITT

John Howard Whitt died April 21, 1974, in Starkville, Mississippi. He served for 11 years as a director of missions of several associations on the west
coast of Florida. Whitt was a native of Tennessee, and a graduate of The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky. He served
as a foreign missionary to Burma, and was pastor of churches in New Jersey, West Virginia, and Kentucky.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, May 30, 1974, p. 15.

KEN WHITTEN

Ken Whitten (1954- ) has served as pastor of the Idlewild Baptist Church in Tampa since 1989. The 8,000 member church has purchased 143 acres in
Northwest Hillsborough County, and plans to relocate there. Whitten served as associate pastor of First Baptist Church in Casey, Illinois (1977-1979), and then as associate pastor of North Jacksonville Baptist Church in Jacksonville (1979-1982). He served on the ministerial staff of Bellevue Baptist Church (1982-1989) before coming to Tampa. Whitten served as President of the Florida Baptist Convention in 1995, and has served in numerous state and national denominational posts. Whitten married Ginette (Ginny) Vincent on August 21, 1976, and they have four children and one grandson.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.
Florida Baptist Witness, September 9, 1999, p. 14;
September 30, 2004, p. 15.

A. D. WHITTLE

A. D. Whittle served as pastor of Smyrna in Henry County, Alabama, in 1870 in the West Florida Baptist Association.

Secondary Source:
West Florida Baptist Association Minutes, 1870, p. 9.

LLOYD N. WHYTE

Lloyd N. Whyte (1918-1998) was a graduate of Miami Edison High School, the University of Miami, and Colgate-Rochester Divinity School. He was pastor of Shenandoah Baptist Church in Miami for 21 years, from 1944 to 1965. He then served with the North American Mission Board in Miami from 1965 to 1983. He lived in Coral Gables for more than 60 years. He and his wife, Laura, had a daughter, Candace, and a son, Richard. Whyte lived in Florida from 1935 until his death. He and Earl Joiner probably did more for Southern Baptist-Jewish relations than any other Baptists in Florida.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, October 1, 1998.
Maurice Smith, A History of Southern Baptist/Jewish Relations.
Florida Baptist Historical Society. May 1988.

HAYES WICKER

Hayes Wicker serves as pastor of First Baptist Church in Naples.  In 2005 and 2006 Wicker served as president of the Florida Baptist State Convention. Wicker and his wife, Janet, met as students at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. They have three children; Evan, Allison, and Kristen.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, 1896, October 23, 2003, p. 4.

J. M. WILDER

J. M. Wilder served as pastor of Little River Baptist Church, Miami.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

GARY WIGGINS

Gary Wiggins has served as pastor in North Carolina, Alabama and Florida, including Shiloh Baptist Church, Chipley, and Seagrove Baptist Church, Santa Rosa Beach. He and his wife, Cindy have been married for 43 years.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

MICHAEL WIGGINS

Michael Wiggins is a native of Alabama. He attended the University of Mobile, New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary and Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary. Mike and Cindy have two children. Mike has served churches in Louisiana, Alabama and Florida before coming to serve as the Senior Pastor at Pine Terrace in 1987.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

WILLIAM L. “BILLY” WIGHT, JR.

Billy Wight (1962-   ) was born in Warner Robins, GA. He graduated from Auburn University and Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary, Memphis. Wight helped organized Palm Coast Community Church in 1995 with the help of John Shepherd. He has served as pastor of Palm Coast Community since 1995. Wight and his wife Kim have three children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

DENNIS WILBANKS

Dennis Wilbanks (1952-   ) was born in Commerce, GA. He graduated from Gainesville College, and the University of Georgia. Wilbanks served as associate director Partnership Missions Department of the Florida Baptist Convention. He and his wife, Nancy, have three children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

MARK WILBANKS

Mark Wilbanks is a graduate of the University of Georgia and The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He served as pastor of Southside Baptist
Church in Jacksonville (1985-2002) and went as pastor of First Baptist Church in Bradfordville in 2002. He and his wife, Him, have two sons.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, July 18, 2002, p. 10.

A. M. WILCOX

A. M. Wilcox served as pastor of Gully Springs Baptist Church.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

RON WILCOXSON

Ron Wilcoxson served as pastor of Wright Baptist Church and East Hill Baptist Church, Pensacola.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

W. W.WILDES

W. W. Wildes served as pastor of Midway Baptist Church, Palatka, 1954-1967.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

W. O. WILHAM

W. O. Wilham served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Hastings.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

RICHARD WILHELM

Richard Wilhelm (1942-2006) served as pastor of Pine Grove Church, Mulberry, and in 1980 went as pastor of First Baptist Church in Mount Dora.
He also served as pastor of FBC Sorrento and FBC Zellwood. He and his wife, Martha, had two sons: Tim and Matt.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, August 28, 1980, p. 6.
November 30, 2006, p. 6.

GREGORY A. WILKERSON

Gregory A. Wilkerson (February 15, 1975- ) was born in Bartow, Florida. He attended Atlanta Baptist College (2001-2003). He serves as pastor of Carter’s Baptist Church, Lakeland. Wilkerson married Wendi L. Wilkerson and they have two children; Angel and Noah.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

NATHAN T. WILKERSON

Nathan T. Wilkerson served as pastor of Providence Baptist Church, Palatka.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

DOLPHUS WILKES

Dolphus Wilkes served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Raiford.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

J. D. WILKES

J. D. Wilkes served as pastor of Friendship Baptist Church, Malone.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JAMES WILKES

James Wilkes served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Delray Beach.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JOHN DANIEL WILKES

John Daniel Wilkes in 1917 was serving as pastor of the Milton Baptist Church. He and twenty dedicated Baptists then started the First Baptist Church of Crestview. Wilkes served as their first pastor. Wilkes also served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Blountstown. He was born in Pike County, Alabama and he and his wife Agnes Prine Wilkes served numerous
Baptist churches in the Pensacola area. Wilkes died in 1958 and his wife in 1966.

Secondary Source:
History of First Baptist Church, Crestview, p. 14.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

C. E. WILKINSON

C. E. Wilkinson served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Middleburg.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

GEORGE W. WILKINSON

George W. Wilkinson served as pastor of Long Branch Baptist Church, Jacksonville.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

NATHAN T. WILKINSON

Nathan T. Wilkinson served as pastor of Providence Baptist Church, Palatka, 1960-1961 and Bostwick Baptist Church, Palatka.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

W. R. WILKINSON

W. R. Wilkinson (1872-1944) served as pastor of Providence Baptist Church, Paran Baptist Church, Palatka and Satsuma Baptist Church. Wilkinson had held Baptist pastorates throughout Putnam County for the 25 years. He and his wife Zilphia Elizabeth Wilkinson had four children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

CONRAD R. WILLARD

Conrad R. Willard attended Drury College, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary (B.D.) and Central Baptist Seminary (Th.D.). He served as pastor of Central Baptist Church in Miami from 1962 to his retirement in 1983. He served as president of the Florida Baptist Convention in 1967-1968. He and his wife, Lena Mae, served at Calvary Baptist Church in Kansas City before coming to Florida.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, November 17, 1983, p. 6.
Martha L. Reiner, Belief in The City.

J. C. WILLARD

J. C. Willard served as pastor of Providence Baptist Church, Palatka, 1966-1968.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

R. MAX WILLCOCKS

R. Max Willcocks served as pastor of Northwood Baptist Mission, Gainesville.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

HENRY WILLET

Henry Willett (1936-2018) was born in Albany Ga. Willett completed his Doctorate of Theology at Andersonville Baptist Seminary. He served as pastored of Florosa Baptist Church, Fort Walton Beach. He and his wife Glenda had a son Mike and two daughters Cindy and Susie.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

ALFRED WILLIAMS

Alfred Williams served as a minister in the West Florida Baptist Association and died in 1866.

Secondary Source:
West Florida Baptist Association Minutes, 1866, p. 13.

C. F. WILLIAMS

C. F. Williams served as pastor of Green Pond Baptist Church, Polk City.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

C. W. WILLIAMS

C. W. Williams served as pastor of Ray’s Chapel.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

CHARLES WILLIAMS

Charles Williams served as pastor of Knights Baptist Church, Plant City, 1940-1941.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

CHARLES A. WILLIAMS

Charles A. Williams was a teacher and student at Luther Rice Seminary. Williams at 73 years of age received his seventh school degree in 2002. Williams served as pastor of eight churches in Kentucky, Georgia, and Florida, including Venetia Terrace Baptist Church and Wingate Road Baptist Church, Jacksonville. He received degrees from five different colleges, and at age 73 became the oldest person to receive a degree through The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary’s Billy Graham School of Missions, Evangelism, and Church Growth. In 1981 Williams organized the Southern Baptist School for Biblical Studies in Jacksonville, Florida, and served as president. He and his wife Georgia had two children.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, January 9, 2003, p. 11.

CHARLES BRAY WILLIAMS

Charles Bray Williams (January 15, 1869-May 4, 1952) was born near Shiloh, North Carolina, and died in Lakeland, Florida. He is one of those servant
scholars who touched the lives of Florida Baptists in his retirement years ministry. Williams graduated from Wake Forest (1891), Crozer Theological
Seminary (1901), and the University of Chicago (M.A., 1908; Ph.D., 1909). He served as pastor in Pennsylvania, Texas, Tennessee, and North Carolina. He taught at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary from 1905 to 1919, Mercer University from 1921 to 1925, and Union University from 1925 to
1932. He served as president of Howard College from 1921 to 1925. Williams wrote numerous important books but is best known in Florida for his popular Translation of the New Testament, published by Moody Press in 1950. He taught for one year at Baptist Bible Institute in Lakeland in his
retirement.

Secondary Sources:
Encyclopedia of Southern Baptists, Volume 2, p. 1501.
Edward Star, A Baptist Bibliography, Vol. 25, pp. 159-160.

CLARENCE E. WILLIAMS

Clarence E. Williams served for 20 years as pastor of First Baptist Church, Auburndale, Florida from 1953 to 1973. He died December 12, 1973. Williams married Jean E. Williams.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, March 21, 1974, p. 13.

D. E. WILLIAMS

D. E. Williams served as pastor of Shady Grove Baptist Church, Grand Ridge.

Source: Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

DANNIE T. WILLIAMS

Dannie T. Williams (1952-   ) was born in Atlanta, GA. He graduated from Criswell Bible College and Dallas Theological Seminary. Williams served as church planting associate/field missionary for the Church Planting Department of the Florida Baptist Convention. He served as pastor of Peniel Baptist Church, Palatka, 1990-1999. Williams and his wife, Gwen, have two daughters.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

DAVID WILLIAMS

David Williams served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Blountstown.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

DURWOOD WILLIAMS

Durwood Williams served as pastor of Forest Heights Baptist Church.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

DWIGHT J. WILLIAMS

Dwight J. Williams (1958-   ) was born in Vinton, IA. He graduated from the University of Northern Iowa and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Williams served as associate/field missionary, Southeast region, Church Planting of the Florida Baptist Convention from 2006-2007. He was a career missionary for the International Mission Board serving in Spain and Portugal from 1993-2005. Williams and his wife, Jucimara Williams, have three children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

E. L. WILLIAMS

E. L. Williams served as pastor of First Baptist Church, LaBelle, 1922.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

FRED WILLIAMS

Fred Williams served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Malone in (1964-1966).

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

G. C. WILLIAMS

G. C. Williams served as pastor of Immanuel Baptist Church, Panama City.

Source: Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

G. R. WILLIAMS

G. R. Williams served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Hernando.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

J. W. WILLIAMS

J. W. Williams was pastor of West Palm Beach Baptist Church in 1926.

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

JIMMY R. WILLIAMS, SR.

Jimmy R. Williams, Sr. served as pastor of Oak Grove Baptist Church, Wauchula, 1979-1999.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JOE A. WILLIAMS

Joe A. Williams served as pastor of Parkview Baptist Church, Lake City.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JOHN WILLIAMS

John Williams served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Esto.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

LANDON L. WILLIAMS, SR.

Landon L. Williams, Sr., has served as pastor of Macedonia Baptist Church in Jacksonville since 1976. He is the founder and CEO of Twin Consultant
and Associates. He was involved with the International Longshoremen’s Association from 1960-1983. He served as International Vice President of the International Longshoremen’s Association, AFC-CIO, 1972-1983. Williams has been actively involved in many civic, political, and business associations. He has received certificates of merit and appreciation from over twenty organizations. Williams studied at Luther Rice College and Seminary. He has the doctoral degree from Covington Theological Seminary. He and his late wife, Rosalind P. Williams, had five children.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

LAURIE SMITH WILLIAMS

Laurie Smith Williams (1886-1960) served with her husband, Dr. J. T. Williams, as a missionary to China for 39 years. Williams was a native of Ivey, Georgia. She attended Howard College (B.A.), and the University of Alabama. Before her appointment to the Foreign Mission Board she served as a teacher in the Georgia public schools, and then as a principal of a Baptist school for Spanish-speaking people in Tampa, Florida. She died Friday, April 1, 1960, at Lakeland, Florida.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, April 14, 1960, p. 12.

LOVETTE WILLIAMS

The death of Lovette Williams was reported in the 1875 Alachua Baptist Association Minutes. He was a good and faithful minister.

Secondary Source:
Alachua Baptist Association Minutes, 1875, pp. 5-6.

LOREN WILLIAMS

Loren Williams graduated from Stetson University, DeLand, and the University of Florida. He served as pastor of in Zolfo Springs, Archer, Riverside, Fort Myers, First Baptist Church, Chiefland, and First Baptist Church, Fernandina Beach.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

MAC JAMES WILLIAMS, SR.

Mac James Williams, Sr. (December 11, 1929-February 8, 1993) was born in Rutherfordton, North Carolina. He started preaching and was licensed to preach at eight years of age. He attended elementary school in North Carolina, and high school at Middleton school in Tampa, Florida. He served
in the United States Army, and went to school at Gibbs Junior College in St. Petersburg (A.A.), Florida Memorial College in Saint Augustine (B.S.), and the International Bible Institute and Seminary in Orlando (Th.M. and D.D.). Williams served as pastor at Beulah Baptist Church in Tampa; Mount Olive in Tampa; Shiloh in Dunedin (11 years); and for 20 years was pastor of Mount Carmel Baptist Church in Clearwater. Williams was an innovative Black leader in the Florida Baptist Convention. He had influence in his family, church, state, and nation. He was also very active in international service, ministry, and evangelism. Williams married Rose Watts Williams of Tampa. After her death he remarried, and he and his wife, Naomi, ministered together at Clearwater, and on foreign fields.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

MIKE WILLIAMS

Mike Williams began serving as pastor of First Baptist Church Olustee in 2008. He is a graduate of the Baptist College of Florida and is married to
Renee Williams.

Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, February 7, 2008, p. 15.

NATHAN A. WILLIAMS

Nathan A. Williams (1843-1899) was a physician as well as a preacher. “He was strong in the Baptist doctrines, and was loved and respected by
all who knew him.” He died in Dade City in the early spring of 1899.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Convention Annual, 1899, pp. 43-44.

OSCAR NATHANIEL WILLIAMS

Oscar Nathaniel Williams (1855-1923) was born in Bullock County, Georgia, on February 23, 1855. He was the son of Reverend R. N. J. Williams. Williams was educated in private schools in Bullock County, Georgia, and finished his schooling at Bradwell Institute in Hinesville, Georgia. He was educated to be a lawyer but felt the call to preach shortly after finishing school. Williams was called to be a missionary in Eastern Orange County, Florida. He served as pastor of Bethany Baptist Church, Myakka City, Double Branch Baptist Church (now First Baptist Church, Wesley Chapel), Tribly, Fort Christmas, Lockwood, Boggy Creek, and New Hope. He was also a farmer and served Pasco County in the Florida Legislature in 1915. Williams married Amanda A. Tucker of Fort Christmas and they had four children; Mabel, Robert, Paul, and Virgil. Oscar Nathaniel and Amanda are buried in the Dade City cemetery.

Secondary Source:
Audry O. Hendry, Bethany Baptist Church 1888-1988, pp. 30-31.

PAGE WILLIAMS

Page Williams, Page served as pastor of Lady Lake Baptist Church, 1958-1960.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

PHILLIP WILLIAMS

Phillip Williams served as pastor of West Pittman Baptist Church, Westville, 2002-2005.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

R. L. WILLIAMS

R. L. Williams served as pastor of Corinth Baptist Church, Jasper, 1947-1950.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

R. T. WILLIAMS

R. T. Williams served as pastor of Beulah Baptist Church, Clay County in 1960.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

RICHARD L. WILLIAMS

Richard L. Williams served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Wabasso, Central Baptist Church, Port St. Lucie, and Glendale Baptist Church, Vero Beach.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

ROY WILLIAMS

Roy Williams served as pastor of Shady Grove Baptist Church, Taylor County, 1976.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

W. D. WILLIAMS

W. D. Williams ( -1918) founder of the Holmes County Advertiser, served as pastor of Sandy Creek Baptist Church, Ponce de Leon,1881-1890. Williams
also taught school in Holmes County.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

WALLACE WADE WILLIAMS

Wallace Wade Williams (1935-2018) was born in Waverly, Florida to Talmadge and Ruby Williams. Williams served in the U. S. Army, during the Korean War. He attended Luther Rice Seminary where he was later ordained. Williams served as asst. pastor and pastor toe several churches. He and his wife Patty were married for 25 years. He had two daughters and two sons from a previous marriage.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

WILLIAM “BILL” WILLIAMS

William “Bill” Williams (1949-   ) was born in Toledo, Ohio. He served as pastor of Francis Baptist Church. Williams and his wife Mary Lou Williams (1955-2017) worked with teenage boys both at the Baptist Home for Children and the Florida Sheriffs Boys’ Ranch.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

WILLIAM M. WILLIAMS

William M. Williams served as pastor of Fort McCoy Baptist Church, Fellowship Baptist Church, Ocala, Indian Springs, Ocala, and Mt. Arnon, Flemington. In 1875 he preached the introductory sermon at the Alachua Association at Staffordsford church.

Secondary Source:
Alachua Baptist Association Minutes, 1873, p. 7; 1875, p. 3.

W. W. WILLIAN

W. W. Willian served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Sorrento, First Baptist Church, Tavares, and Umatilla Baptist Church.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

S. WILLIFORD

S. Williford served as pastor at Memphis Baptist Church in Henry County, Alabama, in 1876 and Selma Baptist Church in West Florida.

Secondary Source:
West Florida Baptist Association Minutes, 1876, p. 8.

SAM WILLIFORD

Sam Williford served as pastor of Pilgrims Rest Baptist Church, Cottondale.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

DONALD EARL WILLIS

Earl Willis (1907-1998) was born in Putnam County, FL to James Joseph Willis and Cazzie Wilkinson Willis. He was licensed to preach by the Bostwick Baptist Church and called as Pastor to New Hope Missionary Baptist Church in Palatka, where he was ordained to the Gospel Ministry September 30, 1945. For many years he served in a bi-vocational capacity, serving as a full time pastor and working in the timber business. He was also active in a prison ministry at Raiford from 1947 through 1952. He served as Pastor of the following churches, New Hope Missionary Baptist Church, 1945-1946; Bostwick Baptist Church, 1947-1949 and 1953-1960; Kingsley Lake Baptist Church, 1950-1952;  Peniel Lighthouse, Palatk, 1952-1953; Laura Baptist Church in Starke, 1961-1965; and Decoy Baptist Church near Green Cove Springs, 1966-1984. He married Lula L. Green and they had two daughters.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

H. WESLEY WILLIS

H. Wesley Willis (1928-1992) died in a boating tragedy in the Suwannee River while serving as pastor of First Baptist Church in Cross City (1987-1992). Willis served 43 years as a Baptist preacher in Florida, Georgia, and Alabama. He and his wife, Eugenia, had one daughter, Ruth, and two sons, George and John.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, October 29, 1992, p. 10.

OLAN WILLIS

Olan Willis served as pastor of Athena Baptist Church, Perry.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

PAUL WILLIS

Paul Willis (1853-1892) was from Levy County. He graduated from Southern Seminary in 1879. Willis served as pastor of Eden Baptist Church, Brooksville, Fellowship Baptist Church, Ocala, Peniel, Palatka, and as president of the Florida Baptist Ministers Conference. Willis was a much beloved minister and died at age 40. Willis served as moderator of the Alachua Baptist Association from 1887-1889. Willis might have been the first native Floridian to become a Florida pastor.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist State Convention Annuals, 1891, 1893.
Alachua Baptist Association Minutes, 1892, p. 7.
Marion Baptist Association Minutes, 1891, p. 17.

PETE WILLIS

Pete Willis, Pete served as pastor of Central Baptist Church, Leesburg.

Source: Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

S. B. WILLOFORD

S. B. Willoford died in August, 1904. He served as pastor in the West Florida Baptist Association.

Source:
1904 Minutes, West Florida Baptist Association Minutes, p. 18.

E. M. WILLOUGHBY

E. M. Willoughby served as pastor of Concord Baptist Church, Tampa, 1909-1911.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

WILLIAM WILLOUGHBY

William “Bill” Willoughby (1928-2006) served as pastor of Bradfordville, Tallahassee. He and his wife, Dorothy had two sons.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JOHN WILMER

John Wilmer served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Pensacola in 1875.

Secondary Source:
Toni Moore Clevenger. On the Bay On the Hill, pp. 67-68.

A. WILSON

In 1867 A. Wilson was pastor of Alafia Church and Tenotassa Church in Hillsboro County, and Bethel Baptist Church in Polk County.

Secondary Source:
Alachua Baptist Association Minutes, 1867, p. 8.

ALDERMAN WILSON

Alderman Wilson (1821-1883) was a circuit rider preacher, born in Scriven County, GA. Wilson was ordained in 1862. He served as pastor of Pleasant Hill Baptist Church, Pasco County and Bethel Baptist Church, Socrum. Wilson married Arena Jordan in 1842.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

DAVID A. WILSON

David A. Wilson was a native of South Carolina. He graduated from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. Wilson served as pastor of Grapeland Heights Baptist Church, Miami.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

E. Q. WILSON

E.Q. Wilson served as pastor of Grace Baptist Church, Clermont.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

EARL L. WILSON

Earl L. Wilson (1926-2006) died June 3, 2006 in Greer, South Carolina. He served as Director of Missions in Royal Palm Baptist Association,
with offices in Ft. Myers from 1981-1987. He and his wife, Helen of 59 years, had two sons; David and Dennis.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, June 29, 2006, p. 14.

FRANK WILSON

Frank Wilson served as pastor of Millview Baptist Church (now Blue Angel), Escambia County.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

FRITZ M. WILSON

Fritz M. Wilson (1961-   ) was born in Birmingham, AL. He graduated from Mobile College and Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. Wilson served in a variety of positions while directing the disaster relief ministries for the Florida Baptist Convention from 1996-2012. In 2012, Wilson was named executive director of the North American Mission Board Disaster Relief ministries. He and his wife, Deborah, have two sons.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

GLENN WILSON

Glenn Wilson served as pastor of Five Points Baptist Church, Fernandina Beach, 2004-2005.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

HERNANDO DESOTO WILSON

Hernando DeSoto Wilson (1877-1962) was born near French Camp, Mississippi. He was the son of Joel and Mary Flowers Griffin Wilson. His father was a farmer-minister and his mother was a housewife. He had three brothers; Clifton (1874), Dallas (1878), and Webster (1887), and four sisters; Emma (1872), Rosa (1880), Mable (1883), and Helena (1885). Wilson was raised at French Camp, Mississippi, and attended Mississippi Normal College (A.B., 1898), and The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary (Th. G.). Wilson was converted at age 15, and baptized into the Bethsaida Baptist Church in Montgomery County, Mississippi. He was ordained on June 21, 1908, at First Baptist Church of New Albany, Mississippi. Wilson served ten churches as pastor. Brantley, Gantt, Alabama (1909-1913), Northport at Holt, Alabama (1913-1917), Cuba at York, Alabama (1918-1920), Centerville at Brent, Alabama (1920-1922), Wiggins, Mississippi (1922-1925), Shubuta, Mississippi (1925-1929), New Smyrna Baptist Church, (now Wallace Baptist Church), Pace, Bagdad, Florida (1930-1940), 1946-1952), Norwood Church in St. Petersburg (1940-1944), and Safety Harbor Church in Safety Harbor, Florida (1946-1952). Wilson married Wanda Jane Walker on September 27, 1911, at Rutledge, Alabama. They had four children; Lucy (1912), Mary (1915), Joel (1918), and Florence (1928). He is buried at a cemetery in Milton, Florida.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.
Florida Baptist Witness, January 25, 1962, p. 12.
Letter from Ruth F. Dailey dated April 23, 2007.

J. S. WILSON

J. S. Wilson served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Mt. Dora.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JOE WILSON

Joe Wilson served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Cedar Key.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JOE M. WILSON

Joe M. Wilson served as pastor of Westside Baptist Church, Leesburg, 1947-1948.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

LEWIS WILSON

Lewis Wilson served as pastor of Calvary Baptist Church, Crestview.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

OLAND WILSON

Oland Wilson served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Jasper.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

PAUL WILSON

Paul Wilson served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Hernando.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

ROBERT H. WILSON

Robert H. Wilson served as pastor of Bethel Institutional Baptist Church, Jacksonville, 1953-1966.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

SCOTT WILSON

Scott Wilson attended Florida State University and graduated from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. He served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Melbourne. Wilson and his wife Megan Matheny Wilson have four sons.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

W. DON WILSON

W. Don Wilson served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Niceville.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

W. H. WILSON

W. H. Wilson served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Hastings.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

WILLIAM WILSON

William Wilson served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Raiford, Gibsonia Baptist Church, Lake Ruth Baptist Church, Bartow and Parkview Baptist Church.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

A. JAY WIMBERLY

A. Jay Wimberly (1936-2012) was the son of Patrick, Sr. and Dorothea Wimberly. He was a pastor and evangelist and the Founder of the North American School of Theology. Wimberly served as pastor of Hillcrest Baptist Church, and Venetia Terrace Baptist Church, Jacksonville. He and his wife Shirley had one daughter.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

CHARLES WIMBERLY

Charles Wimberly served as pastor of Friendship Baptist Church, Malone.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

PAT WIMBERLY

Pat Wimberly (1909-1983) served the Florida Baptist Convention as state evangelist. He also served as pastor of numerous Baptist churches in Florida. Churches that he served as pastor include Laurel Hill, Barton Lake, and Miller Memorial in Orlando; Franklin Street, Murray Hill, Silver Glyn, and Caleb in Jacksonville; Main Street in Leesburg; North Central in Gainesville; Coconut Grove in Miami, and First Baptist Churches of Venice and Osteen. Wimberly and his wife, Dorothea, had two daughters, Virginia and Dorothy, and three sons, Pat Jr., Jay, and Fred.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, February 24, 1983, p. 6.

ARGIE WINDHAM

Argie Windham served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Cedar Key.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JERRY M. WINDSOR

Jerry M. Windsor (b. 1940) served as the Secretary-Treasurer of the Florida Baptist Historical Society from 2002 until his retirement in 2016.  At the time Dr. Windsor accepted the leadership position of the Society, he was a professor of preaching at The Baptist College of Florida.  A native of Webb, Alabama, and while attending college, Windsor met and married Jerry Mae Talley of Montgomery, Alabama, July 13, 1963.  The couple later had two children — Caroline and John Mark.  Windsor graduated in 1964 from Howard College (now called Samford University).  He later attended and graduated from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary with the Bachelor of Divinity and the Doctor of Theology (1976) degrees.  His ministry service as a full-time pastor included Seminary (Mississippi) Baptist Church (1972 — 1976); First Baptist Church, Amite, Louisiana (1976 — 1982); and First Baptist Church, Graceville, Florida, (1982 — 1991).  In 1991, Dr. Windsor was invited to join the faculty, as a professor of preaching, at the then called Florida Baptist Theological College, now The Baptist College of Florida.  Although he retired from the college faculty in 2006, Dr. Windsor continued his service with the Historical Society until 2016. He is the author of several books including: Graceville, Florida: A Personal History (1994)Ministry Resources (1995); Columbia Blues (2020); and co-authored with Ann L. Schilling, A History of First Baptist Church Amite, Louisiana 1866-1980.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

CHARLES WINNER

Charles Winner served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Fort Meade, 1920-1921 and Blake Memorial Baptist Church, Lake Helen. .

Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, March, 18, 1926, p. 10, March 11, 1926, p. 7.

JONATHAN WINNIGHAM

Jonathan Winningham served as pastor of Beulah Baptist Church, Winter Garden.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

BOB WINSTON

Bob Winston served as pastor of Lake Talquin Baptist Church, Tallahassee.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

CHARLES WINTER

Charles Winter was pastor of Miami Beach Baptist Church in 1932 and 1933.

Source:
1932 Miami Baptist Association Minutes, p. 4; Ibid, 1933, p. 4.

C. W. WINTERS

C. W. Winters served as pastor of Damascus Baptist Church, Graceville, 1936.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JEFF WITT

Jeff Witt served on the church staff of Lake Forest Baptist Church in Jacksonville before becoming pastor of Palm Valley Baptist Church in
St. Augustine.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, July 29, 2004, p. 11.

ROBERT GEE WITTY

Robert Gee Witty (1906-2007) was born in Glasgow, Kentucky to parents Maud Mae and Robert Lee Witty. Witty has preached the Gospel for 83 years beginning his ministry as a Methodist in Salem, Oregon. He came to Jacksonville in l932 as pastor at Livingston Memorial Methodist Church. He organized Faith Temple on Riverside Avenue, a non-denominational church. As a Southern Baptist his pastorates included Baptist Temple which later became the Central Baptist Church located at Nira and Flagler on the Southside and served as pastor from 1943 to 1970. Witty began a radio ministry in 1936 that would continue without interruption for 30 years. In 1962 during Witty’s ministry at Central Baptist Church he founded and organized the Luther Rice Seminary, a non-traditional Theological Seminary. Upon his retirement from Central Baptist Church in 1970 he became the President of Luther Rice Seminary and served as President until 1982. Witty’s education includes degrees from Willamette University, Kimball School of Theology, Princeton Theological Seminary, Garrett Theological Seminary, Asbury Theological Seminary, Burton Seminary and in 1959 he graduated from the University of Florida. He and his wife, Kay, had six children.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, September 21, 2006, p. 13; July 5, 2007, p. 5.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

ROBERT H. WOLFE

Robert H. Wolfe (1904-1977) served as pastor of Oneco Baptist Church and Bethany Baptist Church, Myakka City. He and his wife Dicie C. Estes had four children. After the death of his first wife, Wolfe married Shirley Suggs and they had four children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

O. R. WOLFRAM

O. R. Wolfram served as pastor of Inman Baptist Church, Winter Park and First Baptist Church, Auburndale.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

ANDY WOLVERTON

Andy Wolverton served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Malone in (1996-2001).

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

RICHARD WOMACK

Richard Womack served as pastor of Calvary Baptist Church, Lake City.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

A. B. WOMBLE

A. B. Womble served as pastor of Pilgrims Rest Baptist Church, Cottondale, and Ebenezer Baptist Church, Vernon.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

LONNIE WOMBLE

Lonnie Womble served as pastor of Union Hill Baptist Church, 1912.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

M. M. WOMBOLT

M. M. Wombolt served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Lake City.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JOSEPH H. WOMBWELL

Joseph H. Wombwall was listed as an ordained minister of Greenwood, Florida, in the 1856 Minutes of the West Florida Baptist Association. He
was elected as a delegate to the 1857 Florida Baptist Convention. He died on July 17, 1859, and left Lucius and Everetta as destitute children.

Secondary Source:
West Florida Baptist Association Minutes, 1856, 1889. pp. 9-10.

DICK WONG

Dick Wong was born in South China. He and his wife graduated from Bethel Bible Seminary in Hong Kong. Wong came to the United States in 1961 to study at the Northern Baptist Theological Seminary in Chicago. In 1963 he began his studies in religion at the University of Miami. While attending the University of Miami Wong served as pastor of the Chinese mission, Flagler Street Baptist Church, Miami.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

J. S. WORLEY

J. S. Worley served as pastor of Pine Barren Baptist Church, Davisville.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

G. GRIER WOOD

G. Grier Wood served as pastor of Castle Heights Baptist Church, Tampa and Ballast Point Baptist Church, Tampa.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

GORDON WOOD

Gordon Wood served as pastor of San Mateo Baptist Church, 1945 and Palatka Heights (now Hillcrest) Baptist Church.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

J. E. WOOD

J. E. Wood served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Live Oak.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

J. LAWRENCE WOOD

J. Lawrence Wood (1948-   ) was born in Atlanta, GA. He graduated from John Brown University and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Wood served as associate, Evangelism Department for the Florida Baptist Convention from 1983-1987. He and his wife, Paula Kay Hanson Wood have three sons.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JOE E. WOOD

Joe E. Wood (June 16, 1937- ) was born at Paragould, Arkansas. He attended Arkansas State University (B.S.) and The Southern Baptist Theological
Seminary (M.Div., M.R.E.). Wood served as Assistant to the Dean in the School of Religious Education at Southern Seminary. He served at Baptist
Bible Institute in Graceville as Assistant Professor in Religious Education, and later as Director of Public Relations. Wood and his wife, Linda Lou Ford, have three children (Kathy Wood, Jennifer Lee Riner, and Robert). They have seven grandchildren (Allison Caroline, Victoria, Megan, Bo, Coley, Joe Alan, and Jo Anna). Wood is retired from teaching at the Florida Baptist Theological College, and also is a retired Colonel after serving 24 years in the Army and Navy.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JOE LEE WOOD

Joe Lee Wood (1898-1966) was born in Columbia County, Florida. Wood was ordained in Lake Harbour, Palm Beach County, Florida. He was a bi-vocational pastor and operated the Studebaker/Packard dealership in Lake City. He served as pastor of Bethlehem, Fellowship, Suwannee Valley, and Pine Grove all in the Beulah Baptist Association. Wood and his wife, Quida Scott had three daughters: Josephine, Margueritte and Bette Jean.

Primary Source:
First Baptist Church of White Springs, p.21.
Calvary Baptist Church, Lake City

M. A. WOOD

M. A. Wood served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Lake City.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

TOMMY WOOD

Tommy Wood served as pastor of Northside Baptist Church, Panama City and Carrollwood Baptist Church, Tampa.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

TYRUS C. WOOD, JR.

Tyrus C. Wood, Jr. (1945-2021) was born in Covington, GA. He graduated from Pacific Western University. Wood served as director of Media Services for the Florida Baptist Convention. He and his wife, Roblyn Moran Wood, were married in 1975.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

WALDO EMERSON WOOD

Waldo Emerson Wood (1899-1997) was the son of Absolom and Dora Wood. He graduated from Locust Grove Institute, GA, Mercer University, GA., and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Fort Worth. He served as an ordained Baptist preacher for 76 years. He served pastorates in Florida, Texas, and Oklahoma including Goulds Baptist Church, Immanuel Baptist Church, Tallahassee, Woodstock Baptist Church, Jacksonville and First Baptist Church, Arcadia. He was especially known for his work in literacy ministry. He and his wife, Verda, had a daughter, Ann, and four sons, Judson, Charles, Edwin, and Robert.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, August 21, 1997.
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

WILBUR WOOD

Wilbur Wood served as pastor of Corinth Baptist Church, Jasper, 1986-1989, 1990.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

WILLIAM D. WOOD

William D. Wood served as pastor of Parkview Baptist Church, Lake City.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

WILLIAM F. WOOD

In 1885 William F. Wood and Adela Fales were missionaries to the Cubans in Key West. Wood baptized 28 Cubans in 1884-1885. Several of them were
persons of influence and education, and two of them were already preparing for the ministry. In 1885 the Florida Baptist State Board of Missions borrowed money from a member of the Board to send Wood to Havana, Cuba, on a missions quest. Havana at that time had a population of 200,000, and Florida Baptists desired to hold the fort till the Foreign Mission Board could come to the rescue. Wood was charged to visit Havana at least quarterly to organize, direct, encourage, and foster the various missions there. Wood and his family moved to Cuba in 1886, and with Miss Adela Fales, they led in the work in Havana and the surrounding area. Wood died in 1890.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Convention Annuals, 1885-1889, p. 50.
Una Lawrence, Cuba For Christ.

WILLIE WOOD

Willie Wood served as pastor of Sylvania Heights Baptist Church.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

P. M. WOODALL

P. M. Woodall served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Niceville, 1935.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

A. M. WOODARD

A. M. Woodard served as pastor of Corinth Baptist Church, Jasper.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

RAY WOODARD

Ray Woodard served as pastor of Eden Baptist Church, Brooksville.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

WAYNE CARL “WOODY” WOODARD

Wayne Carl “Woody” Woodard served as pastor of West Pittman Baptist Church, Westville, 1998-2000.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

A. Y. WOODHAM

A. Y. Woodham served as pastor of West Pittman Baptist Church, Westville, 1944-1946.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

A. D. WOODLE

A. D. Woodle was pastor of Delray Baptist Church in 1924.

Source:
1924 Miami Baptist Association Minutes, p. 24.

C. W. WOODRUFF

C. W. Woodruff served as a pastor of DeFuniak Springs Baptist Church and died in 1909.

Secondary Source:
Graves Baptist Association Minutes, 1903, p. 15.
Florida Baptist Convention Annual, 1910, p. 71.

ALZONO E. WOODS

Alzono E. Woods (Lonzo) (1927-2008) was born in Bay Minette, AL. He was Chief of the North Bay Clan Lower Creek Muscogee Indian Tribe. He started many churches in Bay and surrounding counties.He served in the United States Army during World War II. served as pastor of Howard Carlisle Baptist Church, Panama City. Woods and his wife Barbara had seven children, Eddy, Lonnie, Jerry, Danny, Mack, Janice and Judy.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

S. D. WOODS

S. D. Woods served as pastor of Blake Memorial Baptist Church, Lake Helen and First Baptist Church, Osteen.

Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, March 11, 1926, p. 7.

E. E. WOODSON

E. E. Woodson served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Fort Pierce, First Baptist Church, Fort Lauderdale, Lemon City Baptist Church, Alapattah Baptist Church, and died in Miami in 1934.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Convention Annual, 1934, p. 94.
1902 Indian River Baptist Association Minutes, p. 15.

T. R. WOODSON

T. R. Woodson served as pastor of the First Baptist Church, Punta Gorda (1912-1917), Zolfo Springs, and Noxatee Churches. He died in 1921.

Secondary Source:
Peace River Association Minutes, 1921.

D. L. WOODWARD

D. L. “Woody” Woodward died June 25, 2006, in Birmingham, Alabama. Woodward served as pastor in Holmes Association and served as
Director of Missions in Holmes Baptist Association from 1986-1997.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

LUTHER W. WOODWARD

Luther W. Woodward (1901-1980) died December 8, 1980. He served as a Director of Missions from 1954-1969, in the Santa Rosa, Okaloosa,
Graves, and Holmes County Associations. He had a part in establishing 55 churches in his lifetime. He was married to Ruby Robertson
Woodward and they had one son, David Luther.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, December 18, 1980, p. 6; January 1, 1981, p. 13.

RAY WOODWARD

Ray Woodward served as pastor of Eden Baptist Church, Brooksville.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

T. N. WOODWARD

T. N. Woodward (1899-1988) was a native of North Carolina, and served for 39 years as a foreign missionary in China and Hawaii. Upon
retirement he moved to Panama City and served as interim in eight churches there before his death.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, July 14, 1988, p. 10.

JAMES WOODY

James Woody served as pastored of Florosa Baptist Church, Fort Walton Beach.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

NATHAN WOOLEY

Nathan Wooley served as pastor of Corinth Baptist Church, Jasper, 1961-1962.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

R. G. WOOLEY

R. G. Wooley served as pastor of Eden Baptist Church, Brooksville.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

DAVIS COLLIER WOOLLEY

Davis Collier Woolley (1908-2008) was born in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. He graduated from Howard College (B. A.) and the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary (Th. D.). He was Secretary of the Alabama State Baptist Student Union (1940-1942) and later served as pastor in Kentucky and First Baptist Church, Palatka. He wrote Champions of Religious Freedom (1964) and Guide for Writing the History of a Church (1969). Woolley served as Executive Director of the Historical Commission of the Southern Baptist Convention (1959-1970). He married Kate Fristoe Wilkins (1913-2008) in 1942. They had five children: James, Katherine, Mary, John and Nancy.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

J. W. WOOTEN

J. W. Wooten (1910-1992) was born in Kissimmee, Florida. He served as pastor of Gap Way Baptist Church, Lakeland, Oak Hill Baptist Church, Loughman, Bethany Baptist Church, Palatka, New Hope Baptist Church, Palatka, Griffin Corner Baptist Church, Lakeland, First Baptist Church, Zellwood. He and his wife Edna Howard Wooten had eight children.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JESSE WOOTEN

Jesse Wooten was born in Wilder, Virginia. He served as pastor of Calvary Baptist Church, Palatka. Wooten and his wife Grace have two daughters and two sons.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

W. J. WOOTEN

W. J. Wooten was ordained in 1858 at the age of 17. He attended Mercer University until the War Between the States broke out and he volunteered for service in the Confederacy. After the war he returned to Gainesville, GA and married Miss S. A. Merck. Wooten served as pastor of churches in Georgia and Florida, including Ephesus Baptist Church, Hilliard. He served as associational missionary in the Jacksonville Baptist Association, Florida for six years.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

CAROL WORTHINGTON

Carol Worthington served as pastor of Pine Barron Baptist Church, Davisville.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

ROB WORTHINGTON

Rob Worthington served as pastor of Olga Baptist Church, Fort Myers, 2017-2018.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JOHN ALEXANDER WRAY

John Alexander Wray (February 5, 1872-1948) was born in Shelby, NC. He graduated from Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, NC and the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Wray served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Live Oak and First Baptist Church Miami from 1910 to 1916. He married Lucy Plumer Mills Wray in 1894 and they had three children. Source: Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

Secondary Source:
Martha L. Reiner, Belief in The City, p. 20.
1910 Miami Baptist Association Minutes, p. 21.

PAUL E. WRENN, JR.

Paul E. Wrenn, Jr., retired as pastor of Murray Hill Baptist Church in Jacksonville. He had served there from 1974 until 1994. He had served
previously as pastor of First Baptist Church in Kissimmee, and Blake Memorial Baptist Church in Lake Helen.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, September 22, 1994, p. 10.

C. B. WRIGHT

C. B. Wright served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Quincy.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

HERBERT M. WRIGHT

Herbert M. Wright was ordained in 1946 by Concord Baptist Church, Tampa. He attended Bob Jones University and graduated from Florida State University in 1955.. Wright served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Elfers, Bethel Baptist Church, Socrum, First Baptist Church, Woodville, Calvary Baptist Church, St. Petersburg, First Baptist Church, Lisbon, Calvary Baptist Church, Perry and First Baptist Church, Plymouth.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

J. C. WRIGHT

J. C. Wright began his ministry in 1936. He graduated from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary in 1945. He served as pastor of Hogan Church at Foley, and was pastor of Mt. Carmel Church in Lake City, at his death on February 18, 1956.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, March 6, 1956, p. 12.

JAMES C. WRIGHT

James C. Wright served as pastor of Parkview Baptist Church, Fort Pierce.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

JAMES H. WRIGHT

James H. Wright served as pastor of Central Baptist Church, Pensacola.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

LONNIE WRIGHT

Lonnie Wright was the son of William Edward and Katherine Wright. He served as pastor of Westside Baptist Church, DeFuniak Springs, 1983-1986.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

R. H. WRIGHT

R. H. Wright served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Conway, 1914.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

RICHARD L. WRIGHT

Richard L. Wright served as pastor of Calvary Baptist Church, Eustis; Emmanuel Baptist Church, Panama City; First Baptist Church, Southport,
and went to Franklin Street Baptist Church in Jacksonville in 1980 as pastor.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, April 3, 1980, p. 6.

RICHIE WRIGHT

Richie Wright served as pastor of Magnolia Baptist Church, (1976-1977).

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

RONNIE WRIGHT

Ronnie Wright served as pastor of First Baptist Church, Malone in (1979-1986).

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

ROY WRIGHT

Roy Wright served as pastor of West Bay Baptist Church, Panama City.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

STEPHEN WRIGHT

Stephen Wright (1968-   ) was born in East St. Louis, IL, the son of Gary and Binnie Wright. He graduated from McKendree University and New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. Wright pastored churches in Louisiana and Illinois as well as serving as Port Chaplain in New Orleans. He served as pastor of Taft Street Baptist Church (2001-2004); New River Baptist Church (2005-2009) and has served Point of Grace Christian Fellowship since 2015. Wright has served as chaplain at the Seafarers House in Port Everglades (Ft. Lauderdale) as Port Chaplain since 2001.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

THOMAS ALEXANDER WRIGHT

Thomas Alexander Wright (March 26, 1920-2014 ) was born in Moultrie, Georgia, and raised in Boyton Beach, Florida. He was the son of Albert and Roxie Shy Wright. He attended schools in Palm Beach County. Wright graduated from Florida Memorial College (B.S., 1950), and Howard University School of Divinity (B.D., 1954). Wright was converted and became a member of St. John Baptist Church at age 13. He served as pastor of St. Mary’s Baptist Church in St. Augustine from 1954 to 1962, and served for 45 years as pastor of Mt. Carmel Baptist Church in Gainesville beginning in 1962. He is the dean of Florida Baptist pastors. Wright served as chaplain at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Gainesville for 21 years. He has served on numerous civic, denominational, and church committees, and has been appointed to service by mayors, governors, and presidents. He married Affie Mae Clayton in 1940, and they lived together nearly 50 years before her death. They had four children, Patricia, Thomas, Philoron, and LaVon.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

W. H. WRIGHT

W. H. Wright served as pastor of New Hope Baptist Church, Hollywood.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

EDWARD WYATT

Edward Wyatt served as pastor of Shady Grove Baptist Church, Grand Ridge.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

THOMAS C. WYATT

Thomas C. Wyatt (1886-1976) served for 20 years as tourist pastor of Fifth Avenue Baptist Church in Saint Petersburg. Wyatt was the founding chaplain of the East Tennessee Baptist Hospital in Knoxville, Tennessee. He and his wife, Nellie, had one daughter.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, March 18, 1976, p. 6.

B. WYNN

In the 1851 minutes of the Florida Baptist Association, B. Wynn is listed as the pastor of the Long Branch Church in Thomas County, Georgia.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Association Minutes, 1851, p. 2.

HAL WYNN

Hal Wynn a native of Fort Myers. He graduated from Luther Rice Seminary and Florida Gulf Coast University. Wynn and his wife Mamie Higginbotham Wynn have one daughter.

Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

HAROLD HENDERSON WYNN, SR.

Harold Henderson Wynn, Sr. (December 9, 1939-June 19, 1998) was the son of Mrs. Josephine Wynn Barnes. He was born in Marianna, Florida. On July 13, 1959, he married Julia Mae Johnson. They had three sons; Harold Jr., Arthur, and John. Wynn accepted Christ at age 14. He was baptized by Dr. A. H. Parker, and became a member of Saint Luke Missionary Baptist Church. He preached his first sermon on December 24, 1961. He became pastor of Mount Tabor Missionary Baptist Church in 1966, and served there until his death. Wynn graduated from Florida A. and M. University (B.A., M.Ed.), and Gulf Coast Seminary with his masters and doctoral degrees. Wynn served as Chairman of the Board of Trustees at Jackson Hospital, and as Chaplain at the Florida School for Boys. He served in numerous denominational posts of the Progressive M. and E. Baptist State Convention of Florida.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Historical Society files.

WALTER RICHARD WYNN

Walter Richard Wynn (b. 1925; d. 2018) was born in Madison County, FL to the late Bailey and Maggie Wynn. He attended Florida State University and Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, Wake Forest, SC. He was ordained to preach in 1948 and served his first pastorate at Elizabeth Baptist Church, Monticello,  from 1949 to 1952.  He later served as pastor of Southern Baptist churches in Georgia, North Carolina, Florida and Virginia for 70 years. He served as pastor of First Baptist Church in Hillsvale, Virginia; Seminole Church, Tallahassee; King Street in Cocoa; First Baptist Church in Dunedin; First Baptist Church in Fernandina, and Woodstock Park in Jacksonville.  His final ministry service was as a director of missions for a Baptist association.  Wynn and his wife Bonnie Rae Studstill Wynn had two daughters and one son.

Secondary Source:
Florida Baptist Witness, August 31, 1972, p. 10.
Linda Gramling Demott, Elizabeth Baptist Church: The Story of a Pioneer Baptist Church on Mission, 1831 – 2023.