McLemore retiring after 28 years at Lindsay Lane Baptist, Athens

McLemore retiring after 28 years at Lindsay Lane Baptist, Athens

Almost 28 years ago, Dusty McLemore became the pastor of a group of 39 people called Lindsay Lane Baptist Church, Athens.

After Jesus saved him from a life of compulsive gambling, the Athens native answered the call to ministry and enrolled at Heritage Bible College. At the beginning of his pastorate at Lindsay Lane Baptist, he worked at an office furniture company to make ends meet. And slowly through the years, the church grew to around 2,500 members.

“It’s been a journey. It’s overwhelming. God has just shown His favor on us,” said McLemore, who plans to retire April 5.

He originally planned to preach his last sermon as pastor that day, but in light of the coronavirus, Lindsay Lane is planning to organize a special service to honor him and his wife, Patsy, as soon as the church returns to normal meetings.

After his retirement, McLemore will work in a part-time role with the North American Mission Board to help mobilize pastors in Alabama and Mississippi. (Grace Thornton)