Rev. William Ray Jennings will be retiring at the next 13th African Methodist Episcopal Church annual conference held at Greater Ebenezer AME Church, Clarksville, Tennessee, convening on October 16–19.

Rev. William Jennings, Sr. was born December 22, 1938 in Nashville, Tennessee to the late Clyde H. Jennings, and the late Winnie B. Jennings. He has been married for 58 years to the love of his life, Evangelist Pearl B. Jennings. He is the proud father of four children, Ray, Lori, Renita and William Jr.; grandfather of seven; and great grandfather of four. Rev. Jennings was educated in the Nashville Public School System, and studied at Tennessee State University. He worked for over 48 years in religious publishing at the National Baptist Publishing Board and the Sunday School Union of the AME Church as production manager.

In 1988 he accepted his calling from the Lord to preach, under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Kenneth Robinson at Payne Chapel AME Church, Nashville. He has served as shepherd to four churches in the 13th Episcopal District: St. Paul AME. in Paducah, Kentucky; First AME Pegram, Tenn.; Ebenezer AME Nashville; and is presently serving St. Phillip AME Nashville. As a pastor, his accomplishments included: the remodeling of First AME, Pegram; and improvements at Ebenezer AME to include a new ceiling, roof, carpeting, and tile flooring in the fellowship hall.

Rev. Jennings is a preacher who has been faithful in the service to the Lord, serving with gladness—tirelessly, faithfully, and with great compassion for his flock. His investment in the lives of others has truly made a difference, giving hope and encouragement to so many. When he delivers God’s word, he always remind us to love one another as God loves us; to draw near to God; and honor, praise and glorify God.

Rev. Jennings was asked about his plans to start a new chapter in life. He said that even though he will be retiring from the AME Church pulpit, he would continue his preaching ministry until the Lord calls him home. God has tasks for His shepherd as he continues in a new phase of his life. Rev. Jennings will always be a minister, teacher and friend. As the day dawns on the next chapter in Rev. Williams Ray Jennings’ life, may God continue to richly bless him and watch over him and his family.
Contact Sister Gwendolyn White at Saint Phillip AME Church, Nashville, Tenn. <gwhite4jc@att.net>; or 615-750-2655.