CA-015-003-003: Wesley Lyles, July 21, 2025
Scope and Contents
River Hill Missionary Baptist Church was formally organized under Rev. Robert Troupe in 1873 by a group of worshippers who previously attended nearby Macedonia Baptist Church. Shortly thereafter—about three-quarters of a mile up the old River Street Road—Sister Amy Wilson and fellow congregants built and named the first church edifice; the “River Hill” name has remained in use ever since. Over the years, under leaders such as Rev. H. B. Bland, the congregation weathered periods of trial and growth, sustaining its Baptist mission and community ministries into the twentieth century and beyond.
Dates
- July 21, 2025
Biographical / Historical
Wesley Lyles was born on April 7, 1985, in Valdosta, Georgia, and has been a lifelong member of River Hill Missionary Baptist Church. Raised in the Jones Community, Lyles grew up participating in the church's worship services, youth programs, Vacation Bible School, and community events, experiences that shaped his faith and commitment to service. He currently serves as the Superintendent of Sunday School, where he oversees Sunday School operations, teaches the men's class, and supports the church's educational ministry. Deeply committed to preserving River Hill's legacy, Lyles advocates for the recognition and preservation of the church and its historic cemetery, emphasizing the importance of passing the congregation's history, traditions, and faith to future generations.
Extent
From the Collection: X items
Language
From the Collection: English
Overview
In this oral history interview, Wesley Lyles reflects on his lifelong involvement with River Hill Missionary Baptist Church and its central role in his faith, family, and the Jones community. As the church's Sunday School superintendent, he discusses his responsibilities, childhood memories of church programs and traditions, and the importance of preserving the congregation's history. Lyles describes how the church has adapted to changes following the COVID-19 pandemic, recalls a past congregational split, and emphasizes the church's role as a spiritual, social, and community center. He concludes by expressing his hope that River Hill Missionary Baptist Church and its cemetery will be preserved as historic landmarks for future generations while continuing to serve the community for many years to come.
Repository Details
Part of the Community Archives Digitization, Access, and Preservation Program Repository