Path of Honor

“Let not mercy and truth forsake thee: bind them about thy neck; write them upon the table of thine heart: So shalt thou find favour and good understanding in the sight of God and man. Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil.” Proverbs 3:3-7 Proverbs 3:3-7 inspires direction and demands subjection to the Lord’s leadership. Obedience to the Lord’s instruction is realized in verse 3: “So shalt thou find favour and good understanding in the sight of God and man.” The friends and families of Boulevard Baptist Church wish to honor our pastor, Dr. Terry Williams, and his wife, Shela, for the many years of faithful service with a few words from our hearts. One of Pastor Williams’ common sayings is: “One life will soon be past. Only what is done for Christ will last.” The quote isn’t merely words but a Path of Honor that he and his wife chose to follow throughout their lives. Many steps were taken over the years, and we won’t forget the great work they’ve done for the Lord. “He that followeth after righteousness and mercy findeth life, righteousness, and honor.” Proverbs 21:21 Path of Preparation (Pastor Williams’ spiritual travel begins) 1958: At age 11, Terry Williams accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord at Calvary Baptist Church in Cleburne, Texas under Pastor Wilbur Simmons. 1963: At age 16, he was called to preach at the same church under pastor Jay Foster. 1965: At age 18, he enrolled at Bible Baptist College in Springfield, Missouri. July 1, 1967: Terry Williams and Shela Bartlet, both students at BBC, were married and God joined his servants’ hearts for many years to come. 1968: Bro. and Mrs. Williams graduated from BBC. 1969: Bro. Williams received a Bachelor of Theology from BBC, and Bro. and Mrs. Williams chose to serve the Lord in the ministry. “This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work”. I Timothy 3:1 Path of Persistence (Pastor Williams’ life in ministry begins) June 1969: Bro. and Mrs. Williams became associate pastor and youth worker at Calvary Baptist Church in Baltimore under John Sparks. 1971: Bro. Williams accepted his first pastorate at Fellowship Baptist Church in Spearman, Texas. 1973: God directed the Williams to Bethel Baptist Church in Fort Worth, Texas. 1976: God guided the Williams to pastor Bible Baptist Church in Porterville, Calif. Sept. 1983: Bro. Williams began 33 years as pastor of Boulevard Baptist Church in Burleson, Texas. June 5, 2016: The Williams concluded 47 years in the ministry, with Bro. Williams stepping down as pastor. “Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of [their] conversation. Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and forever.” Hebrews 13:7-8

Path of Purpose

One of Dr. Terry Williams’ most cherished qualities is his heart for people in need. Compassion for the grieving and encouragement for the suffering have given Dr. Williams an admirable reputation in the community. Another quality is his strong devotion to see people accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior and fulfill the Great Commission. This devotion has been reflected in the revitalization of the Missions program at Boulevard Baptist Church and the promotion of Global Missions. As of Sept. 2013, Boulevard Baptist Church supports 87 foreign mission projects and 17 home missions. Throughout the years, hundreds of people have been saved at Boulevard Baptist Church under Pastor Williams’ leadership and continued preaching of the Gospel. He has also been steadfast in the baptism of converts of all ages. His honesty and integrity as a pastor and servant of God have been demonstrated through the undaunted application of God’s Word, preaching the Truth and sound fundamental stand. Dr. Williams’ support for others and the encouragement of the home is apparent in his counsel and guidance. Through the marriage ceremony, many families can verify how he’s participated in the success of their homes. A fervent love for children has led to successful children’s programs including the bus ministry, summer camps, and Vacation Bible School. God guided Dr. Williams to undertake many improvements to the programs and facilities at Boulevard Baptist Church and Boulevard Baptist Christian School. A major accomplishment during his time was the elimination of the large bond debt that loomed over the church when he became pastor. His persistent effort has kept Boulevard Baptist Christian School operational and improving for 41 years. Other accomplishments include: construction of the Family Life Center, which has become a valuable part of the weekly church and school use, in 2002 several important land purchases the Sunday School renovation in 2008 the foyer remodel in 2011 the balcony restoration in 2013 Behind every great man is a magnificent woman, and this holds true in Dr. Williams’ life and ministry. Boulevard Baptist Church has been blessed for more than 30 years, not only in its pastor, but also in the woman who stands beside him. Mrs. Shela Williams has joyfully and sacrificially given her time and talents to serve in Boulevard Baptist Church. She also provided an environment in the home for all to respect and admire. Her efforts are an invaluable gift and a testimony to her love for God and desire to serve the Lord. She truly is a Godly woman spoken of in Proverbs 3:10-12. In his life and ministry, Dr. Terry Williams has proven the character of a pastor and earned the respect from the people he’s ministered to and served as well as fellow pastors, evangelists, and missionaries. Thank you Pastor Williams for the love, compassion, and desire you have for God and others. Words can never express our love. We’re grateful for the ministry God’s given you at Boulevard Baptist Church. May the Lord continue this work for many more years. “Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially they who labor in the word and doctrine.” I Timothy 5:17