From Mississippi Fields to Churchwide Leadership: Remembering Rev. Dr. Donnie R. Woods, Sr. (1954-2025)

“And I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will feed you

with knowledge and understanding” - Jeremiah 3:15 (NRSV).

My heart is heavy today as I share the news of the death of my dear friend, the Reverend Dr. Donnie R. Woods, Sr. His passing has left a profound void in my heart and in the life of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). With your permission, I ask for a moment of personal privilege to reflect on Donnie’s remarkable life and the legacy he leaves behind.

The Reverend Dr. Donnie R. Woods, Sr., who entered eternal rest on June 28, 2025, at the age of 70, lived a life that radiated faith, wisdom, and boundless compassion. Born in rural Louisville, Mississippi, Donnie’s journey from the humble fields of his childhood to the highest levels of Presbyterian leadership is a testament to the power of perseverance, education, and unwavering trust in God’s call.

Donnie was a lifelong learner and a devoted servant of the Church. After graduating from public schools in Mississippi, he went on to earn degrees from Mississippi State University and Johnson C. Smith Theological Seminary in Atlanta, Georgia.

Donnie devoted his entire ministry to strengthening the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) through faithful leadership, passionate advocacy for unity, and unwavering support for clergy and congregations. From his ordination in 1985 by Tropical Florida Presbytery, Donnie embodied what it means to serve Christ’s church with humility, wisdom, and vision.

For fourteen years, he poured his heart into pastoral ministry in congregations across Florida, Georgia, and North Carolina. Whether comforting families in times of grief, celebrating milestones of faith, or preaching the gospel with clarity and conviction, Donnie was a shepherd to all entrusted to his care.

In 1998, he accepted a call to the Charleston Atlantic Presbytery (CAP) in South Carolina, where his leadership would span more than two decades. As Executive Presbyter and Stated Clerk, and later as General Presbyter and Pastor to Pastors, he guided churches through seasons of change, helped resolve conflicts with grace, and encouraged congregations to seek God’s call in new and creative ways. His colleagues recognized his unique gifts for healing, bridge-building, and nurturing a spirit of cooperation among diverse congregations.

A gifted mentor, Donnie invested deeply in the education of lay leaders, serving for 18 years as Dean of the SC5 School of Theology (formerly the South Carolina Lay School of Theology). Through this ministry, he equipped countless Presbyterians with a richer understanding of Reformed theology and empowered them to serve their own communities with courage and faith.

Donnie’s leadership extended far beyond one presbytery. In 2012, he was entrusted with the role of Senior Presbytery Executive for all five presbyteries in South Carolina, where he convened monthly gatherings of executive staff and helped shape a shared vision for ministries across the state. His wisdom and calm presence made him a steady force during times of denominational transition and cultural change.

As the Lord promises in Jeremiah 3:15, “I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding.” Donnie’s life was a living fulfillment of this promise. He was truly a shepherd after God’s own heart—nurturing, teaching, and guiding God’s people with deep understanding, boundless patience, and unwavering faith.

Through it all, Donnie remained committed to the unity of the church and the proclamation of Christ’s love. His life’s work inspired others to pursue reconciliation, deepen discipleship, and celebrate the gifts of every member of the body of Christ. His legacy will continue to live on in the congregations he served, the pastors he mentored, and the many lives transformed by his leadership and love.

Faithfully yours,

Danny C. Murphy

Trinity Presbytery

General Presbyter and Stated Clerk