Joshua M. Willis

     Rev. Joshua Willis was born in South Carolina, but moved to Smithfield when he was seven years old. He proclaims that this was also the time he first felt the call to become a minister of God. He began formal preaching at the age of 18. He was first ordained as a minister and licensed Elder on July 21, 2019, at the Rivers of Life Church in Fayetteville, NC by Bishop John H. Langley. Rev. Willis became a licensed Baptist Minister on Nov. 7, 2021, at the Oakey Grove Missionary Baptist Church by Rev. Michael A. Martin.

     He was ordained as a Baptist Minister through the Union Missionary Baptist Association under the leadership of Bishop Perry Williams.  Today, Rev. Willis is studying theology at Liberty University, focusing on the skill sets needed to develop a congregation and reach the multiple social levels of humanity found in contemporary church congregations.

     Rev. Willis is also an entrepreneur. He is founder of two companies. In addition, he also serves as a municipal employee.

     A devoted father of three children, Rev. Willis and his wife have opened their home to their family and have expanded their home to five children. 

     Sanders Grove Baptist Church, “The Little Church That Can,” sits adjacent to NC Hwy 210, surrounded on three sides by the graves from four generations of members who dedicated their lives to it. Rev. Willis’ youth, life experience and energy, are expected to help lead the Sanders Grove Baptist Church into the 21st century and surpass 100 years of service to the Christian community of Smithfield.