Ernest McWilliams

Born on Saturday December 8th, 1934, in Enfield, NC to Charlie and Essie Lee McWilliams. He was the sixth of seven children. His early years were spent in Enfield, where farming was the main job for most people. He learned to drive at an early age. Circumstances dictated that he was forced to drop out of school on two occasions to assist with caring for his younger sister as his mother had to work outside the home. After the last drop out in high school, this is where God's providence comes into play. Ephesians 1:11 refers to God as the one who makes all things according to his will. The principal encouraged him to return to school and this is what's he met Irene Whitaker and both graduated in 1956 from Inborden High School.

In 1958, he was inducted into military service with the army and served for two years. He last active duty was on February 4th 1960. When asked why he left the army when he did, he said that “I didn't want to be stationed in Germany, and I wanted to get back to marry Irene Whitaker. “They married on September 20th, 1960. After approximately four years, he became a father, first to a son, Kelvin Maurice on April 27th, 1964, and later Felecia Denise on October 24th, 1969.

He worked several menial jobs, sometimes two or three at a time to make sure that his family was provided for. I worked for the Board of Education for eight years and proceeded to work for New York Transit as a bus driver for 20 years until retired.

He did not always go to church but did take my wife and children there until one Sunday I decided to start with them and answered the Pastor’s call and joined the church in Brooklyn, NY. He dove right in the service. He became the assistant Sunday School Superintendent and then later promoted to the Superintendent of the Sunday School. During this time, he was awarded the Young Father of the Year award. At this time, he also joined the Usher Board and became trained in the duties of being an Usher and served faithfully until 1985.

In 1985, he joined Saint Paul Community Baptist Church and dove right in there as well. He joined the Usher Board, now known as the Gatekeepers and still serves with dedication. He attended Men's ministry Bible study. He was chosen by Bishop Johnny R. Youngblood to train for an Elder. He was consecrated in 1994, and he is still motivated and love to serve God's people.

Outside of being a father of two beautiful children, God had allowed him to enjoy three beautiful granddaughters. He has had the privilege to be in all phases of their lives, including each graduation, from elementary school through college.

At 90 years of age, God has been faithful, and he continues to serve Him as He guides him in serving His people in his home, church and community.

His favorite scripture is Psalm 23:4.