About Dr. Tim Searcy

Dr. Tim Searcy: A Life of Faith, Service, and Resilience

Dr. Tim Searcy’s story begins in the rolling hills of Kentucky, where his upbringing was steeped in faith, service, and an unyielding sense of purpose. Born into a family deeply rooted in ministry, his father served as a Baptist pastor for over 40 years, and his brother followed a similar path, ministering across the globe in places like Alaska and Germany. These early influences planted seeds that would grow into a life dedicated to serving others and advancing the mission of the church.

Tim’s academic journey was as ambitious as his calling. After graduating from the Oneida Baptist Institute in Kentucky, he pursued higher education with fervor, earning a Bachelor of Theology from Clear Creek Baptist Bible College and a Bachelor of Arts from Lincoln Memorial University. His thirst for knowledge took him to New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, where he achieved both a Master of Religious Education and a Doctor of Educational Foundations. Fluent in Spanish, he also studied at El Instituto del Lengua Española in Costa Rica, gaining the tools to connect with communities worldwide. In 1999, he completed his Ph.D., solidifying his academic expertise.

Tim’s journey in ministry began in 1970, when he was licensed by Oakwood Avenue Baptist Church in Cynthiana, Kentucky. Five years later, he was ordained to the ministry, setting him on a path that would take him across the globe. His roles have been as diverse as they have been impactful—minister of music, senior pastor, church planter, missionary, and leader within the Southern Baptist Convention.

In Colombia, Tim took on the monumental task of planting Vida Nueva Baptist Church in Cali. The challenges were immense. During his mission, he was held hostage by a drug cartel—a life-altering experience that tested his faith and resilience. Yet, he emerged stronger, with a deeper understanding of perseverance in the face of adversity. This strength would serve him again years later when Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans. Tim was instrumental in guiding a theological institution through the chaos, helping it emerge on the other side with hope and direction.

His international ministry extended to places like Costa Rica, Russia, Cuba, Nepal, and Zimbabwe. In Cuba, he worked with the Baptist Seminary in Havana, developing curriculum and training educators. In Nepal, he organized pastor schools, evangelistic crusades, and Christian conferences. These experiences broadened his perspective and deepened his impact, allowing him to touch lives across continents.

Back in the United States, Tim’s leadership extended to higher education. He served as Vice President of Academics at Louisiana College, Vice President for Academic Affairs at Brewton Parker College, and Associate Provost for Institutional Effectiveness at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. His roles as a professor and administrator were marked by a commitment to fostering excellence and equipping students for meaningful service.

Despite his many achievements, Tim’s heart remains rooted in his family. He and his wife Brenda, a gifted church musician and graduate of Clear Creek Baptist Bible College, have been married for 46 years. Together, they raised two sons, Philip and Nathan, who have pursued lives of purpose and service. Philip, a licensed therapist, directs a counseling center in South Carolina, while Nathan continues to build a meaningful life in Kentucky. Tim and Brenda cherish their roles as grandparents to Saylor and Luca, finding joy in family and faith.

Tim’s life is a testament to resilience and faith. Whether standing firm during life-threatening challenges in Colombia, guiding institutions through natural disasters, or shaping future leaders in the classroom, his story reflects a commitment to serving others with courage and compassion. It is a story of a man who answered the call, faced life’s storms with unwavering faith, and continues to inspire those who are privileged to know him.

Today, Dr. Tim Searcy’s legacy is one of hope, perseverance, and the belief that through faith and dedication, one life can truly make a global impact. His journey invites others to follow his example, embracing service, education, and love as tools to transform the world.