MS District Pentecostal Historical Society

09/02/2026

🎥 Watch This Interview!

Hear from our historian, Rev. James Nations, as he shares his heart and vision behind the G.R. Travis Historical Society and the importance of preserving the history, heritage, and stories of those who came before us.

Take a moment to watch and hear why this work matters! 📖✨

Watch the full interview: https://www.msupciheritage.com/media

08/28/2026

08/26/2026

08/24/2026

Sister Georgina Williams dedicated her life to music, ministry, and teaching.

Born in New Westminster, Canada, Georgina was a gifted musician who became the youngest concert violinist for the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra at age 15. She later earned her degree from Pentecostal Bible Institute in Tupelo, Mississippi, where she served as a teacher of music, English, and violin.

An ordained minister with the United Pentecostal Church International for 58 years, Sister Georgina served as Mississippi District UPC Ladies Auxiliary President, ministered as a missionary in Taiwan, and traveled across the nation training Sunday School teachers.

Her life was a testimony of faithfulness, excellence, and service. She leaves behind a lasting legacy of ministry, music, and dedication to the Kingdom of God.

To read the full bio of Sis. Williams, please visit:
https://www.msupciheritage.com/pioneers-heroes-of-the-faith/georgina-williams

08/20/2026

When we remember where God brought us from, it strengthens our faith for where He is taking us.

Church history isn’t just about the past—it’s about identity, gratitude, and direction for the future.

08/18/2026

Ryan Lee Vanderford was born on May 2, 1982, in Memphis, Tennessee, and has dedicated his life to faith, family, and ministry.
After receiving ministerial training at Gateway College of Evangelism, Brother Vanderford began serving in ministry roles as an assistant pastor, youth pastor, and evangelist before answering the call to pastor.

In 2015, Brother Vanderford and his family planted Hope Chapel UPC in Olive Branch, Mississippi. What began as a small church meeting in the historic Cotton Gin has grown into a thriving congregation impacting communities throughout the greater Memphis area.

Alongside his wife, Lisa, and their children, Brother Vanderford continues to lead with compassion, biblical truth, and a vision to see lives transformed through the power of God.

His ministry is marked by faithfulness, leadership, and a passion to help others discover hope, grow in faith, and fulfill their God-given purpose.

To read the full bio of Bro. Vanderford, please visit: https://www.msupciheritage.com/ministers-of-the-ms-district/ryan-vanderford

08/14/2026

Samuel Titus White (1928–2016) faithfully devoted his life to the Gospel for more than four decades.

After receiving the Holy Ghost in the late 1940s and answering the call to preach, Brother White helped pioneer First Pentecostal Church in Meridian, Mississippi, where the congregation flourished under his leadership. He later pastored churches in Louisiana, Brookhaven, Mississippi, and West Palm Beach, Florida, serving as a Presbyter in both the Mississippi and Florida Districts.

Known for his passionate worship, love for the outdoors, and unwavering integrity, Brother White left a lasting legacy of faith, truth, and servant leadership that continues to inspire generations.

To read the full bio of Bro. White, please visit:
https://www.msupciheritage.com/pioneers-heroes-of-the-faith/samuel-white

08/12/2026

History is more than dates and names—it’s the faith, sacrifice, and stories of those who paved the way before us.

The Mississippi District Pentecostal Historical Society exists to preserve those moments so future generations can understand where we came from and why it matters.

08/10/2026

Wolton E. “Tom” Wheat faithfully dedicated more than 50 years of his life to the ministry of the Gospel.

A World War II U.S. Army veteran and native of Poplarville, Mississippi, Brother Tom pastored First United Pentecostal Church in Picayune for 15 years and Crossroads United Pentecostal Church in Poplarville for more than 32 years. His ministry was marked by faithfulness, integrity, and a deep love for God and people.

Beyond the pulpit, Brother Tom was known for his love of farming, family, and community. His sweet corn and generous spirit were blessings to many.

He will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, pastor, and servant of God whose legacy continues through the lives he touched.

To read the full bio of Bro. Wheat, please visit: https://www.msupciheritage.com/pioneers-heroes-of-the-faith/walton-wheat

08/06/2026

Richmond "R. F." Watkins (1927–2007) faithfully dedicated his life to serving both his country and his Savior.

A World War II Navy Seabee veteran, Brother Watkins answered God's call to ministry and, on May 18, 1953, became the first licensed United Pentecostal Church International minister in Starkville, Mississippi. In 1965, he founded First United Pentecostal Church of Morton, where he faithfully pastored for 27 years before becoming Bishop in 1992.

His legacy of unwavering faith, servant leadership, and commitment to the Gospel continues to inspire generations.

To read the full bio of Bro. Watkins, please visit:
https://www.msupciheritage.com/pioneers-heroes-of-the-faith/richmond-watkins