In Memoriam
2023 District Council Honors Twenty-Seven Heroes of the Faith and their Ministry Stories.
Floyd D. Myrick Jr
4/5/1932 – 3/17/2022
Licensed 1954 | Ordained 1963
50 Year Licensed Recognition: 2004
Floyd was born in Coventry, New York. He enjoyed the farm life where he grew up. Floyd accepted Jesus as a boy and was called to the ministry as a young man. He attended Zion Bible Institute in East Providence, Rhode Island (1951-1954). There Floyd met Josephine, and they married after graduation in 1954. They ministered in New York for many years before transferring to NCN in 1976. Floyd served in rest home ministry at Christian Center in San Jose with Pastor Garland Covington from 1976 to 1989. (The church later merged with Los Gatos/Legacy Community Church). After Josephine passed away in 1989, Floyd worked as a Teen Challenge Center Supervisor in Watsonville for four years. During this time, he met Doris on a blind date at Harry’s Hofbrau. They married in 1992. Floyd pastored Bethel Assembly of God in Jackson, with Doris by his side, until his retirement in 2001. During retirement, they continued serving in Seniors Ministries at Bethel/Generation Life Church in Sutter Creek, where Doris remains. Floyd’s friends and family, including his four children, nine grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren, knew him to be loving, patient, understanding, and extremely supportive. Floyd loved preaching the word of God.
C. John Peterson
3/2/1943 - 3/17/2022
Licensed 1974 | Ordained 1985
Charles (John) was born in San Jose, CA, to a Christian family. At 25 years old, John visited a Pentecostal church. He was baptized in the Holy Spirit and called to ministry at 30. John received his Biblical Education at Miracle Valley Bible School and Full Gospel Bible Institute. John and his high school sweetheart, Trudy, married in 1962. They planted a church in Eureka and Ferndale (1973-1979). In 1979, the Peterson’s pastored New Life Church in Palo Alto. They merged with Christian Life Church in Menlo Park, where John remained the Senior Pastor until 1989. John and Trudy also pastored South Shore Christian in South Lake Tahoe (1994-2004). John was Presbyter for the Peninsula Section (1988-1989) and the Decade of Harvest Director (1989-1992), where he helped plant 43 churches! John also launched Chi Alpha at Stanford University and served on their Advisory Board, the Teen Challenge Board of Directors, and Bethany College Board of Trustees. Being an evangelist at heart, John traveled throughout the district and overseas, preaching the gospel from 2004 until his retirement in 2008. He is greatly missed by Trudy, their two children and four adult grandsons.
Frederick A. Muster
4/7/1940 - 3/26/2022
Licensed 1970 | Ordained 1972
50 Year Ordained Recognition: 2022
Fred was born in Corning, CA, in 1940. In December 1958, He gave his life to Jesus while driving from Forbestown to Oroville. Fred received his Bible training from Bethany Bible College and Berean. Fred and Sonja married in 1967. Fred and Sonja started their ministry by pastoring several "needy" churches throughout the district between 1962-1971. In 1971 they went to Fortuna to pastor Calvary Christian Center where they remained for eight years and where Fred started a Christian School (K-8). Fred pastored Cornerstone Community Church in Santa Rosa (1979-1986), Cabrillo Assembly of God in Soquel (1989-1993), and Liberty Christian Center in Yuba City (1993-1995). In 1997 they moved to Alaska and pastored there. In 2000, Fred and Sonja were called to Dayspring Christian Assembly in Gardnerville, NV, where they remained until they retired in 2011 to Southern CA. Fred desired to reveal Jesus, His love, and His character to everyone he met. Sonja, their four children, 13 grandchildren, and three foster children - their children and grandchildren, are comforted knowing Fred is rejoicing in the presence of Jesus.
Phillip H. Stewart
2/21/1924 - 4/1/2022
Licensed 1951 | Ordained 1953
50 Year Licensed Recognition: 2002
Phillip was born in Wilson, OK. The 11-member family suffered during the depression and Dustbowl and moved to CA in 1935. Phillip met Ima Jean at Ceres High School. They married in 1942. Phillip gave his life to Jesus in 1947 at Glad Tidings Church in Ceres. Phillip and Ima Jean were called to ministry. Phillip began serving as the Youth Pastor at Glad Tidings. His first Senior Pastor position was in Keyes at Keyes AG (1952-1958). The Stewards pastored Robertson Blvd AG in Chowchilla (1958-1959), Central Assembly in Ceres (1963-1972), and Lewelling Community Church (Encounter Church) in San Leandro from 1974 until his retirement in 2013. In addition, Phillip was also an Evangelist. He preached in 13 countries and served on the board for the Open-Door Orphanage in Mexico for 20+ years. Phillip was also a Master Plasterer and helped build over 100 churches and Bible schools. Phillip became near-blind, yet he ministered in his retirement home, walked the halls of the VA Hospital, and prayed for people. Phillip’s 4 children, 6 daughters-in-law, 21 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren, and 9 great-great-grandchildren are comforted knowing he is in Heaven with Jesus, Ima Jean (2014), and two of his sons.
R. Scott Dowell
8/31/1965 - 4/6/2022
Certified 1997 l Licensed 1999 l Ordained 2002
Scott was born in San Diego and grew up in Rialto, CA. Scott told his mom he wanted to ask Jesus into his heart at four years old after watching a children’s Christian television show. As a young teen, Scott felt called to the ministry. Scott worked as a CPA for almost 35 years but remained active in the church. Scott received his Bible training through Berean. In 1993, while Scott was teaching a Bible Study, a beautiful lady, Robin, attended as a guest. She started attending regularly, and they married in 1994. In 1997, Scott and Robin transferred to the NCN District, where Scott served in worship ministry, a Sunday School teacher, Youth Pastor, and Associate Pastor at First Assembly of God in Chico until 2002. The Dowells spent one year as Associate Pastors in Palo Cedro at Foothills Christian Center. In 2004, Scott and Robin planted Sonrise Christian Center in Chico, where Robin and their two children, Noah and Danielle, remain. Scott loved and honored the Lord. He sought the Holy Spirit daily. He was passionate about worship and his family. Scott would remind us, “Never give up!”
Donald W. Coates
10/5/1942 - 4/8/2022
Licensed 1972 l Ordained 1975
Donald was born in Iowa. After High School, Don joined the Navy. He was stationed in Diego and would often hitchhike up to Bakersfield to stay with some friends for the weekend. During this time, Don gave his life to Jesus and met his love, Doris. They married after Doris graduated from High School in 1963. Don was committed to serving Jesus. When he was filled with the Holy Spirit, Don became aware of his calling. While working as a fireman for Boeing, Don attended Northwest College (1967-1972). Don and Doris ministered in Washington and Southern California before transferring to NCN District in 1982. Don served on staff at Christian Life Center in Lincoln (1981-1984), Assembly of God in Grass Valley (1984-1985), and Antelope Christian Center in Antelope (1992-1998). In 1999, Don was appointed Senior Pastor at Amador Christian Center in Plymouth and served there until his retirement in 2007. Don was an evangelist and particularly gifted at teaching about the Holy Spirit. Early in his ministry, so many people were being filled that the local paper came out to investigate and write a story about it! Many miss Don, especially Doris, their two children, spouses, and two granddaughters.
Edward L. Klinsky
2/26/1925 - 4/24/2022
Licensed 1946 l Ordained 1949
50 Year Licensed Recognition: 1996
Edward was born in Loretto, Nebraska, during the Great Depression. The family moved to Idaho, where Ed committed his life to Christ and felt called to ministry. Ed graduated from High School and, at 16 years old, went to Glad Tidings Institute in San Francisco. Ed played in a Brass trio for the school, which toured during the summer. While in Sacramento, Ed met a beautiful violinist, Jacqueline Louise Smith. They married in 1948. Ed and Jackie ministered in Southern CA before coming to pastor at Benicia Assembly of God (1956-1966). They also pastored Pajaro First Assembly of God (Green Valley Christian Center), where Ed started Green Valley Christian School, adding one grade per year (1966-1976). Ed retired but continued to minister in many churches. The Klinsky’s came out of retirement to pastor Peninsula Christian Center in Pacific Grove (1984-1992) followed by five years in Tracy. The Klinsky’s retired again and remained in Watsonville until 2021 when they relocated to Coeur D’Alene, ID. Jackie passed later that year. Ed and Jackie’s four children and spouses, nine grandchildren, and eleven great-grandchildren have a legacy to be proud of.
Adolph L. Anguiano
9/27/1945 - 5/4/2022
Licensed 2020
Adolph was born and raised in Mexico. He was one of eleven children. In 1971, Adolph married the love of his life, Graciela. Adolph surrendered his life to Jesus and was filled with the Holy Spirit in 1976 at thirty-one. God spoke to him from Jeremiah 1:4-5 and called Adolph to feed His sheep. Two years later, Adolph held Bible Studies in his home while attending Global University. He received credentials with the Pentecostal Church of God in 1985. Adolph served as Senior Pastor at Hope Tabernacle and planted Ciudad de Refugio (City of Refuge) in San Jose, CA. Adolph had over 40 years of ministry experience before transferring to NCN District in 2020. Adolph was dependable and hardworking. He was loyal and trustworthy. Adolph loved God’s people and would visit them in their homes, hospitals, or prisons. He wanted everyone to know about the love of Jesus, and door-to-door evangelism became part of his routine. Adolph’s legacy will continue in the lives of those who found the Lord through his calling. Graciela, their three daughters, and twelve grandchildren hold Adolph in their hearts.
Arnold L. McLellan
3/9/1936 - 6/6/2022
Licensed 1963
50 Year Licensed Recognition: 2013
Arnold was born at his parent’s home in Vancouver, Canada. He received Christ as his Savior at the age of twenty-two. He obtained an education and degrees at the University of British Columbia, Central Bible College (CBC), and Simmons College of Boston, Massachusetts. At CBC, Arnold met Gerri while singing in the Revival Time Choir. They married in 1963. Arnold preached throughout Canada and Southern New England and served in youth ministry before transferring to the NCN District in 1973. Arnold served for thirty years on staff at Bethany Bible College (Bethany University) as head Librarian, where he exerted a positive spiritual influence on the students, faculty, and staff. Arnold had over 250 student assistants. He was like a father to numerous students. Many came to him for personal guidance and counsel. Arnold and Gerri were also active members at Craig Chapel. As a concert-trained cellist, Arnold was involved in music ministry. He also taught Sunday School and youth ministry. Everyone loved Arnold. But none more than Gerri, his two children, and one grandchild. “Arnold – a man of unassuming stature but exemplary character.”
Martin S. Engebretsen
1/17/1927 - 6/12/2022
Licensed 1952 l Ordained 1955
50 Year Licensed Recognition: 2002
Martin was born in Marcola, OR. He accepted Christ as a young boy. While attending Canyonville Bible Academy in OR, Martin filled out his draft card on his 18th Birthday. It was 1945 and WW2 was ending, consequently, he was never drafted. However, 35 years later, in 1980, he and Murlene would be serving the military in Japan--as AG Missionaries! For 13 years they ran the Yokohama Christian Servicemen’s Home – a ministry to US Navy and other Military personnel and their families. Martin earned his degree in the US at Glad Tidings Bible Institute (1945-1949). Martin and Murlene ministered in Washington and Oregon before transferring to the NCN District in 1957. They pastored in Hayfork, Arbuckle, Tulelake, Dunsmir, Weott, and pastored Auburn Assembly of God from 1965-1979. After the Engebretsens returned from Japan in 1993, they retired to Paradise. At age 65, Martin became legally blind, but he continued leading the Senior Sunday School class at Paradise 1st AG. Murlene passed away in 2012. In 2018, Martin lost everything in the Paradise fire. He relocated to Corning where he lived with his daughter. Martin’s 4 children, 11 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren miss him greatly.
Robert Ray Davis
10/15/1934 - 6/27/2022
Licensed 1972 l Ordained 1974
Ray was born in Henryetta, OK. He was 16 when the family moved to Olivehurst, CA. Ray married Sylvia Ann DeLozier in 1955. In 1961, Ray gave his life to Jesus. The family attended First Assembly of God in Olivehurst and Ray served as a youth director, Sunday School teacher, and board member. When God called Ray to the ministry in 1971, Ray took Berean classes while pastoring Covelo Assembly of God in Covelo (1971-1979). Ray returned to Olivehurst and served as Assistant Pastor (1980-1982). Ray pastored in Atwater (1979-1981) and served as a Seniors Pastor at Word of Life Church in Marysville under Rev. Stan Reynolds (1982-2003). He then returned to Covelho and pastored for 13 additional years (2003-2016). His final assignment lead him back to Olivehurst, where he led the Senior Ministry in 2016 until his retirement in 2018. In addition to church ministry, Ray was a volunteer Bible teacher at a rescue mission, had a Christian radio show – Walk This Way, and was the first Chaplain for Valley Hospice for the Yuba-Sutter Region. Ray loved people and served wherever he was needed. Sylvia, wife of 67 years, their two sons, and his family miss him dearly.
Reuben J. Sequeira
3/25/1940 - 7/4/2022
Licensed 1965 l Ordained 1970
50 Year Licensed Recognition: 2015
Reuben was born in Azores Island, Portugal, where his parents were missionaries. Reuben gave his life to Jesus at eight, and the Lord planted the ministry seed in his heart. He graduated from Bethany Bible College (BA), Oral Roberts University (MDiv), and Golden Gate Theological Seminary (DMin). Reuben Pastored Melrose Assembly in Oakland (1965-1966) before marrying Carmen in 1969. Reuben and Carmen moved to San Rafael, where they pastored Central Assembly (Trinity Community Church) for 14 years. Together they experienced fruitful ministry. In 1984, the Sequeiras went to Baton Rouge, LA. Reuben helped to open and establish the Jimmy Swaggert Bible College. In 1988, they were appointed AGWM Missionaries to Portugal, Belgium, and Reuben was the College Director for International Correspondence Institute (Global University) in Europe for two years. He was also an anointed teacher and evangelist in the Soviet Union and East Germany. Reuben authored two books, "Jesus: The Model Missionary" and "Revival: Jesus Style," and published several articles. Reuben ministered in 42 countries, and many who were touched remained in contact with him. Carmen, their four sons, and eight grandchildren are grateful for their legacy.
Eugene Z. Lawrence
1/25/1923 - 7/8/2022
Licensed 1949 l Ordained 1951
Eugene was born in Arkansas. In 1947, Eugene came to know Jesus and was filled with the Holy Spirit in Richmond, CA. Eugene wasted no time and immediately enrolled to receive Bible training from Glad Tidings (1947-49). He and his wife Beverly pastored in several churches throughout the District, including: the Assembly of God in Los Banos (early 50’s), First Assembly of God in Tracy (1958-1960), Anderson Assembly of God in Anderson (1963-1967), and First Assembly of God in Oroville (1967-1972). In 1972, Eugene and Beverly went to pastor Calvary Tabernacle in Stockton. Beverly passed away in 1984. Eugene married Sue Hodges in 1989. Eugene pursued ministry with the Evangelical Church Alliance for a time and was then reinstated with the Assemblies of God in 2009. In 2019, at NCN District’s 100-Year Celebration and during the Superintendent's State of the District address, Eugene was honored as the district's "senior minister" (the oldest). He was 96 years old. Eugene and Sue retired in Paradise. He is survivied by Sue, two children, two grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren, who all miss Eugene greatly. They are also proud that Eugene celebrated his 99th birthday before his home-going.
Robert E. Capehart
11/2/1934 - 7/9/2022
Licensed 1967
50 Year Licensed Recognition: 2017
Robert (Bob) was born and raised in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Bob was nineteen when he joined the Air Force. While stationed at Castle AFB near Atwater, Bob met Grethel Foster. They married in 1955. Bob answered the call to ministry and pursued his Biblical training from Berean. Bob was co-vocational. He worked as a Construction Inspector and a manager for the Chowchilla Water District. Bob was comfortable wherever God sent him. His ministry includes assignments in Alamo, Madera, Mariposa, and Chowchilla. He initially retired in 2000 from the pastorate in Chowchilla. Even after “retirement,” pastors would call for his assistance, and Bob would fill in as a Sunday School teacher or as an interim pastor. In 2016, Bob and Grethel returned to Chowchilla First Assembly, where he pastored for an additional three years. Bob was trustworthy and compassionate and gave to those in need. He is deeply missed by Grethel, his wife of 67 years, his two children, seven grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren.
Albert B. Cardenas
7/3/1933 - 7/21/2022
Licensed 1980 l Ordained 1982
Albert (Al) was born in French Camp, CA, and raised in Modesto and Colusa. Al surrendered his life to Jesus after marrying his childhood sweetheart, Shirley. Shirley was instrumental in leading Al to the Lord. After 20 years of marriage, Shirley died unexpectedly. While attending Trinity Life Center in Sacramento he met and married Lois and later responded to a call to ministry. They were married for 43 when Lois died in 2017. Al graduated from Trinity School of the Bible (Epic). His ministry was worldwide. Al was a staff member of Trinity Life Center and Trinity Bible College (1978-1982), Associate Pastor at Orangevale Assembly of God (1982-1983), and Pastor of New Life Assembly of God in Elk Grove (1983-1989). Al served as the Director of World Outreach for Marin Christian Life Center in San Rafael (1989-1991) and organized crusades and new believer follow-up procedures for Pastor Roger Houtsma. He helped build and start Trinity Bible College in Nigeria, Africa. He served as the Prime Time Pastor of Harvest Community Church in Roseville for 13 years. Al was a fervent prayer warrior who was well-loved. Al leaves a great legacy to his four daughters, nine grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.
Richard F. Kashner
11/18/1941 - 7/24/2022
Licensed 1985
Richard (Dick) was born in Detroit, MI. Dick and Carrie were married in 1966 and made their home in Bend, OR. Dick worked as a heating and air business owner and real estate. But he felt a call to ministry and enrolled in Berean Bible College to complete his ministerial preparation. He was licensed in the Oregon Ministry Network in 1985 before transferring to the Northern California & Nevada District in 1988. The Kashner’s ultimately landed in Lodi and attended Westside Assembly (Radiant Life Church). Dick was an evangelist. He loved sharing his faith, singing, and playing his guitar and harmonica. Dick was active in prison ministry in Ione and King of Kings Christian Boys Ranch in Mokelumne Hill. Dick loved helping people in the church and the marketplace. Dick retired in 2016. He touched many lives, and his impact is far-reached. Dick is missed by many, especially Carrie, his wife of 56 years, his two children, and five grandchildren.
Willard M. Richardson
12/13/1945 - 8/26/2022
Licensed 1971 l Ordained 1978
Willard was born in Post, Texas, into a Christian home. He was called to the ministry at a very young age and practiced preaching to his chickens and dogs. Williard joined the Military and and was appointed to the Defense Language Institute at the Monterey Presidio. While there, he met his wife, Patricia, when her parents invited a group of military men over for dinner. They married in 1967. Desiring to be a Chaplain, Willard graduated from Bethany in 1974 and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in 1978 (MDiv). As a Chaplain, Willard served in TX, MA, AZ, GA, and several countries. He received a Bronze Star Medal for Desert Storm. Willard led many soldiers and their families to Christ. He retired from the Military in 2003 as a Lieutenant Colonel. Willard also pastored the Chinese Assembly of God in San Mateo (1972-1975) and Faith Assembly of God in Stockton (2005-2008). Willard served on the district's World Missions Board from 2003-2005. After retiring in Elk Grove, the Richardsons attended Harvest Church, where Willard enjoyed singing in the choir. Willard was loved by all, especially by Pat, his two children, eight grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.
Analiza B. Austria
3/21/1969 - 9/18/2022
Licensed 2016
Analiza was born in Cavite City, Philippines. At age 18 she moved to Reno, NV to attend Reno Business College. Analiza was introduced to Jesus by her hairdresser, Rev Tessie Casaul. They developed a close friendship, and Analiza started attending Green Pastures Assembly of God where Tessie and her husband, Salvador, served as Pastor. There, Analiza gave her life to Jesus in 1994. Rev Tessie mentored Analiza and often said, “One day, you will marry a pastor.” Angelo started attending Green Pastures A/G and the two were married in 1999. In 2000, Angelo became the lead pastor of the church (the name was later changed to Vertical Church.) Analiza served faithfully alongside her husband for 22 years, during which time she served as Children’s Director, Worship Leader, and Director of Women’s Ministries. Analiza was appointed Women’s Ministries Area Director in 2019. Analiza was passionate about her faith and love for the Lord. Despite her failing eyesight and being diagnosed with Glioblastoma, Analiza’s faith grew even stronger and more bold. She wrote, “We may enjoy God on the mountaintops, but we get to know Him intimately in the valleys.” Analiza’s life inspired thousands. She was loved by all that knew her, but none more than her husband and three children.
Tammy D. Reulman
12/30/1964 - 11/4/2022
Licensed 2019
Tammy was born in Santa Cruz, CA. She experienced several difficult years, but the Lord turned it around when Tammy committed her life to Jesus at eighteen. She found a Godly woman who mentored and discipled her. Tammy's pain transformed into passion, purpose, and prayer. Her focus was two-fold: to see children won to Christ and to see addicts set free. Before receiving her credentials, Tammy served in the Nursery/Pre-School, Children's Ministries, and Missionettes in Los Gatos Christian Church, First Assembly of God, Bethel Church in San Jose, and Legacy Community Church in Los Gatos from 1986 – 2016. While at Legacy Community church, Tammy volunteered with Teen Challenge, led a Celebrate Recovery group, assisted a homeless ministry, and was very successful at VBS. In 1997, she enrolled in Global University and began her ministerial education. She joined New Hope in Gilroy as an intern and led Celebrate Recovery and other duties. After receiving her credentials, she served simultaneously as the Celebrate Recovery Pastor in Gilroy and the Family Life Pastor at New Hope in Santa Cruz. Tammy was also a Kids Club Consultant. (An after-school program that teaches positive life skills through music, games, and Bible stories). Bill, Tammy's husband of 38 years, their seven children, and eleven grandchildren treasure Tammy's passion and legacy.
Joe D. Wright, Sr
4/4/1928 - 11/28/2022
Licensed 1956 l Ordained 1958
50-Year Licensed Recognition: 2006
Joe was born in Woodson, TX. During World War II, the family moved to Long Beach, CA. Joe went to Southern California Bible College and met his wife, Mignon. They married in 1949. Before coming to Northern CA, Joe pastored in Hemet and traveled as an evangelist. In 1956, Joe and Mignon moved to Salinas to pastor Alisal Assembly of God, where they remained for thirteen years. In 1971, the family moved to Modesto, where Joe served as pastor at Calvary Temple (The House) for the next 23 years. There, Joe completed the building project, which included the current sanctuary, he started a Christian School and Global Outreach Bible Institute. Joe also served the District as a Trustee for Bethany Bible College, Chairman of Bethany Park Camp (1962-1973), Men's Ministry Director (1969-1971), and Presbyter for the Central San Joaquin Section (1977-1993). Joe retired in 1993 but continued to serve with various ministries, including God’s Door Keepers, Teen Challenge, and Knowing the Word Ministry. Joe impacted thousands of lives. Mignon, his five children and spouses, fourteen grandchildren, and twenty-three great-grandchild children are blessed to have had a front-row seat.
Warren T. Hanford
3/27/1923 - 12/2/2022
Licensed 1987
Warren was born in Los Malinos, CA. In 1956, Warren gave his life to Christ at the Assembly of God Tabernacle in Modesto. Afterward, Warren jumped right in, serving the Lord as a lay leader, teaching Sunday School for all ages, leading the Men's Fellowship, and serving as Secretary of the Church Board. He served churches in Modesto, Garberville, and Washington. Warren was also involved with rest home ministries and jail ministries. Warren managed the Richardson Grove Campground and attended Redwood Chapel in Garberville, (where their son was the pastor). Former Assistant Superintendent, Rev. Earl Johnson, described Warren as one with great compassion and a heartbeat for ministry. After many years of service as a layman, Warren applied for credentials at the age of 64. After receiving his credentials, Warren and Mary moved back to Goldendale, WA. They served as interim staff pastors until Warren’s retirement (1987 – 1990). The Hanford’s remained in WA to stay close to family. Warren’s beloved wife, Mary, passed away in 2014. Warren’s four children and their families greatly respect and admire their parents.
John R. Blakeley
5/21/1941 - 12/21/2022
Licensed 1963 l Ordained 1966
50-Year Licensed Recognition: 2013
John was raised in a Christian home in Modesto, CA and he always loved Jesus. John’s father, Rev Roy Blakely, started Neighborhood Church in Modesto when John was in high school. It became home to him. John met his wife, Neva, at Bethany Bible College. They married as juniors in 1962. John served with his dad as Minister of Music and Youth (1965-1967) and associate Pastor (1971-1973 and 1976-1985). In 1985 John was elected as the Senior Pastor, where he and Neva remained until 1993—twenty-two years in total. During this time John served ten years on the Sectional Leadership Committee of the Central San Joaquin Section. John also served at Fremont AG (Harbor Light) as staff Pastor from 1999-2002. Other lead pastor positions include Davis Assembly of God (1967-1971), Trinity Church in Escalon (2003-2010), and Saint John’s Chapel of the Valley in Modesto from 2011 until his retirement in 2014. John’s childhood dream was fulfilled when he and Neva received their missionary appointment to Bolivia (1973-1976). John is deeply missed. Especially by Neva, his three children, five grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.
Barbara L. Irvine
5/2/1936 - 1/17/2023
Licensed 1983 l Ordained 1987
Barbara was born in Los Angeles and raised in Inglewood. Barbara committed her life to Jesus after a family crisis in 1973. Barbara loved learning and teaching. She earned a Master of Science in Education from the University of Southern California, a Master of Arts in Church Leadership from Vanguard University, and a Doctor of Theology and Philosophy from the Louisiana Baptist Theological Seminary. In addition to the many years teaching in public schools, Barbara was an instructor at Berean Bible Institute at Adobe Assembly in Petaluma (1996-1997), a Supervisor at Bethany Bible College (5th year teaching program, 1996-1997), and New Life Assembly Bible College in Novato (2003-2006). Barbara served as Associate Pastor at Church on the Hill in Vallejo, Benicia Assembly of God, Sebastopol Assembly of God, New Life Assembly of God in Sonoma, and New Hope Church in Cotati. Barbara was the lead Pastor at River of Life Assembly of God in Guerneville in 2007 until her retirement in 2010. Barbara had a deep passion for the elderly and started Mercy Ministry, an evangelistic convalescent hospital ministry (1978-1987). Her three children and family members miss Barbara deeply.
Leonard P. Grim
2/4/1950 - 1/21/2023
Licensed 2011 l Ordained 2014
Leonard was born and raised in Las Vegas, NV. He met Debbi at a McDonalds in Florida. They married in 1974. Leonard was interested in spirituality and tried different “religions.” On his journey, a “random guy” approached Leonard and prayed for him on three occasions. The last time he invited Leonard to church. Leonard went, accepted Jesus, and never looked back! Leonard and Debbi attended Green Valley Christian Center in Henderson, NV, where Leonard was discipled and grew in his faith. (Debbi accepted Jesus three years later.) In 1988, Leonard began serving in the church. In 1992, three evangelists spoke the same word to Leonard, “You have been called by God, according to Isaiah 6, to serve Him for the rest of your life.” In 2000, Leonard started Bethany in Las Vegas. In 2005, Rev. Gary Morefield invited him to join the staff. Leonard was well-loved and an integral member of the Green Valley family. His ministry included: leading the traditional church service, small groups, and teaching. However, mentoring, and discipleship was Leonard’s great passion. As a result of his tutelage, ten people are in the ministry today. Leonard battled Parkinson’s disease for twenty years. He retired on Sunday, January 15, 2023... and he was with the Lord six days later. Debbi has said, “Leonard didn’t lose his battle; Jesus won.”
John B. Jackson
7/17/1953 - 3/2/2023
Ordained 2005
John was born in Los Angeles, CA. He is a walking miracle! Early in his ministry, John was injured in an accident and his doctors said John would never walk again. But he did! Although he still suffered from physical repercussions he adopted the perspective that God would use him for His glory. John graduated from Bethany Bible College. In 1976, he served as an intern at Valley Christian Center in Dublin under Rev. Ward Tanneberg. John and his wife, Emillie, spent several years of ministry with the Southern Baptist Convention, with whom John was Ordained. During this time, John served as a pastor, worship leader, and hospital Chaplain with the “Love Your Neighbors Ministry.” John was Ordained with the Assemblies of God in the NCN District in 2005. John served at Full Gospel Church in Los Lomas with Rev. James Whertley. John also did ministry at the Rescue Mission in Coast Counties, substitute teaching at Christian and public schools, and taught home Bible studies. John was most recently attending the Living Water Assembly of God, assisting Pastor Paul Steinhauer as needed. A fellow minister describes John as “dedicated to shepherding those entrusted to him.”
Elmer E. Kirsch
3/5/1927 - 3/10/2023
Licensed 1952 l Ordained 1955
50 Year Ordained Recognition: 2005
Elmer was born in Gillett, WI, and raised on a farm. In 1948, Elmer left home to become a dentist and had a “Damascus Road” road experience. He vowed to follow the Lord wherever He led. Elmer’s journey led him to Alice. Together they attended Central Bible Institute in Springfield, MO. They got married in 1951. Elmer and Alice pastored a church in Wisconsin, where he built the church building with a few volunteers. Elmer continued his education – at Taylor University in Indiana (BA), the University of Toledo in Ohio (MA), and the University of Southern California (EdD). Elmer’s academic career began in 1961 at Bethany Bible College, where he was Vice President of Academics, Acting President for one year (1961-1974), and Chairman of the Education and Psychology Department (1977-1982). Elmer served as Vice President of Academics at Central Bible College in Springfield, MO until his retirement (1974-1977, 1982-1997). A total of 36 years of mentoring students for ministry. He was well-loved and respected by students, and colleagues in academics and administration. Elmer served on many academic boards and teams – including the Western Association of Schools and Colleges' Commission on Accreditation. On several occasions, Elmer traveled to Singapore and Alaska to teach. Elmer's life was a blessing, and his absence is felt by many, especially by Alice, their two sons, five grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren
Everett A. Wilson
3/30/1935 - 4/1/2023
Licensed 1955 l Ordained 1959
50 Year Recognition: 2019
Everett was born in Weed, CA. He committed his life to Jesus in Sunday School in 1942. Everett was a third-generation AG minister, educator, and missionary; the third son of Assistant District Superintendent, Rev. Ruben Wilson, and older brother to Rev. Priscilla Taylor, our long-time Women’s Ministries Director! Everett started his academic journey at Glad Tidings in 1952. He went on to Sacramento State (B.A.), UC Berkeley (M.A.), and Stanford University (Ph.D. in Latin American History). Everett married Lois, his childhood friend, in 1957. In 1966, Everett and Lois moved to El Salvador, where Everett completed his dissertation. As a pastor, Everett served on staff in Roseville, Oakland, and Santa Cruz. As a stateside educator, Everett served Bethany as Dean of Students, Professor of History, Academic Dean, and President. A combined total of 38 years! As an AG World Missionary, Everett started Cincel in Costa Rica—the language school for missionaries going to Spanish-speaking countries (1991-1997). He also served as interim President of the AG Seminary in Cordoba, Spain, for two years. Everett is the author of several books and journal articles. The contribution of Everett Wilson to the Kingdom is incalculable, and will remain, especially with his three children, eleven grandchildren, fifteen great-grandchildren (and one on the way.)
We honor these seven women for their faithful service to The King.
Corene O. Davis
1/06/1935 - 3/15/2022
Spouse of: Calvin Davis
Pearl E Blay
1/23/1923 - 3/30/2022
Spouse of: Rev. Gordon S Blay
Adella Kenworthy-Miller
9/27/1935 - 7/28/2022
Spouse of: Rev. Chester Kenworthy
Vickie Seeley
3/13/1972 - 8/4/2022
Spouse of: Rev. Jefferey Seeley
Barbara Womack
8/10/1931 - 8/7/2022
Spouse of: Rev. David Womack
Talaumtoé Kaufusi
2/17/1958 - 9/22/2022
Spouse of: Rev. Taniela Kaufusi
Leonora Grecco
2/27/1935 - 10/20/2022
Spouse of: Rev. Rudolph (Rudy) Grecco