Wayne B. Smith, founding minister at Southland Christian Church, dead at 87

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WTVQ) – Southland Christian Church has confirmed that Wayne B. Smith, founding minister at the church, has died at 87.

According to the Lexington Herald-Leader, Smith died overnight at the Sayre Christian Village.

Smith was the founding minister at Southland Christian Church, and was an integral part of the church’s growth from a few hundred members, to thousands by the time of his retirement in 1995, says the Herald-Leader.

In this photo from 1956, Wayne B. Smith poses before a sign proclaiming the opening of Southland Christian Church. (Photo Courtesy: Southland Christian Church)

The paper says Smith’s humor, generosity, and accessibility continued to drive his popularity in the community long past his retirement, and despite arising health ailments.

According to the Herald-Leader, Smith is survived by his two daughters, Jana Thore and Judy Speakes, and their families.

Mayor Jim Gray commented on the loss of Smith, saying, ““Wayne was a great friend and ambassador for Lexington. He was a valuable advisor and spiritual leader. His way of bringing calm and humor to a situation was always appreciated. I’ll always cherish our friendship.”

Information from the Lexington Herald-Leader