Welford Addison Brooks, 1911-1993

Welford A. Brooks died June 9, 1993, at the age of 82 at his home in Richmond. He had retired several times from the Virginia conference, only to be recalled to service until he had accumulated 55 years of ministry in both the Baptist and Methodist churches. He spent 32 years in Baptist congregations, including Hardy Central (Richmond), First Baptist (Clifton Forge), and First Baptist (West Point), before moving to the Methodist Church. His ministry in the Methodist Church began at Bethlehem Church (Roseland) and continued at St Peter's (Montpelier), Beaverdarn/Rouzies Chapel (Beaverdam), Lebanon (Ashland), Laurel Park (Richmond), and Dunns Chapel (Montpelier). He served 23 years in these congregations before officially retiring in June 1992.

Welford began his ministry in Richmond where he graduated from the University of Richmond in 1934. He moved on to the Southern Baptist Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky, where he received a Th. M. degree. He did some additional studying at Duke University and at Union Theological Seminary (New York).

Throughout his life, Welford demonstrated the character traits of humility, compassion, faith, dedication, strength, and keenness of mind. These facets of his personality served him well in his work and encouraged and strengthened many persons in their individual commitment to Christ He always looked to the good in a person just as the Lord does. Welford labored unceasingly in his Master's service until he was called home on June 9. He will be sorely missed by us, but joyously welcomed by his Father.

-Robin R. Bruce