Grady Wilson Powell, Sr.

1999 Honoree

Historic Gillfield Baptist Church in Petersburg, Virginia, was the first African-American church in the United States to ordain female deacons. Gillfield sponsors a transportation project for the physically disabled, transporting more than 150 persons per week. For 30 years, Gillfield has operated the Child Care Center, the first church child care center in Petersburg. These achievements occurred under the leadership of the Rev. Grady W. Powell, Sr., a pioneer in ecclesiastical life and community development.

In 1961, at the age of 28, the Rev. Powell became pastor of Gillfield Baptist Church. Thirty-six years later, he retired after a long and distinguished career in the pastorate. The members of Gillfield and the citizens of Petersburg were the fortunate beneficiaries of his care and concern.

After graduating with honors from St. Paul’s College in 1954, the Rev. Powell taught in Emporia, Virginia, for two years. He then entered Virginia Union University’s School of Theology and graduated first in his class, receiving the master of divinity degree in 1959.\Before making Gillfield Baptist Church his home, the Rev. Powell served as the pastor of Quioccasin Baptist Church in Richmond. At Gillfield, he led the congregation to become a mission church. The initial mission budget was $300 per year. Today, Gillfield contributes 11 percent of its budget to community service. Also, the church purchased 26 houses and constructed a multifaceted Christian education building to offer ministries to children, youth, and adults. The Rev. Powell has worked diligently toward racial reconciliation and breaking down barriers which divide people and destroy Christian unity. Local citizens have benefitted tremendously from these outreach efforts.

Although retired from the church, the Rev. Powell remains in the ministry. He is Diversity Foods Processing’s (Petersburg) industrial chaplain. He continues to hold steadfast to those things he holds near and dear: God, family, and community.

We can all learn from the words of wisdom that the Rev. Powell espouses: “Every generation has its challenges, and to each successive one, the problems seem the greatest. Our present time is no exception. However, within all of us is a special gift from God, which faith and work have to perfect. Whatever the gift, it is our responsibility to share it graciously with all humankind.”