Because the Rev. Harold S. Mauney (1937-2005) embodied the spirit of the Academy of Preachers, we have established a Fund for Excellence in Preaching named in his honor. Mauney expected preaching excellence from himself and the absolute best from the young people he mentored.  He was equal parts preacher and pastor.  No one ever loved a congregation more than Harold.

Those who knew him share a gift, the memory of Harold Mauney.  Because of this connection, friends and family have established a fund with the Academy of Preachers, celebrating Harold’s commitment as gospel preacher, mentor and friend to all.  The Harold Mauney Fund for Preaching Excellence will be used to identify, network, support and inspire young preachers by underwriting the personnel and programs of the Academy of Preachers.

Harold was born in Corbin, Ky. on August 2, 1937. He engaged in the programs of Central Baptist Church and “surrendered to full time Christian service”, as a 12 year old. He was a frequent speaker on the Youth for Christ broadcast heard over WCTT.  At 17 he took his first pastorate and was ordained.  This “part-time” church became a “full-time” church under Harold’s leadership.

A graduate of Georgetown College and Southern Baptist Theological Seminary (MDiv and DMin), Harold served churches in Kentucky and Tennessee for over 50 years.

In 1959 he married his soul mate, sweetheart and ministry partner Donna Dugger.  They were blessed with one daughter, Beth Ann, who along with her husband Dan Williams made them the proud grandparents of Danielle and Ella.

Longest pastorates:

• 1969-1981 First Baptist Taylorsville, KY (A member of another local church complimented Harold by calling him ” the Pastor of Spencer County.”)

• 1981-2000 First Baptist of Williamsburg, KY  (Lead the Church in numerical and spiritual growth while completing a major building project with church and local support.)

Harold was diagnosed with colon cancer in 1997. Even so, he continued to serve and in retirement was associate pastor of First Baptist Church, London, KY.  Cancer was re -diagnosed in November 2003, and Harold lost his battle on June 1, 2005.

Harold walked with God and his ministry reflected Jesus’ example: everyone mattered to Harold.  He encouraged women in ministry, ecumenical dialogue and an appreciation of individual needs. Harold knew we are all better when listening to each other.

To extend Harold’s influence as a minister and mentor the Academy of Preachers has inaugurated The Harold Mauney Fund for Preaching Excellence. During 2011 and 2012, donors will be sought to help us raise $125,000 with 15% being placed in endowment.  Money in excess of the goal and received by December 31, 2013 will be added to the endowment. To date, $19,800 has been received and $10,000 has been pledged.

Will you join in multiplying Harold’s ministry through the Academy of Preachers?