Waycross-Ware County Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2025
Pastor Nathaniel J. Anderson, Jr., named recipient of award
The Beacon of Light Award was established by the Sports Hall of Fame Board of Directors to honor a local individual who embodies the traits of the late Rev. F.J. Beverly, who served this community as a minister of the Gospel.
Rev. Beverly also served the Hall of Fame as its Chaplain for many years. Recipients of this prestigious award are expected to reflect the qualities evident in Rev. Beverly’s life, including faith, character, civic participation, community service, humor, and friendliness.
The Board’s selection of Pastor Nathaniel J. Anderson, Jr., undoubtedly meets all expectations to maintain the integrity of the F.J. Beverly Award. When people speak about Pastor Anderson, they often describe him as a devoted Christian, dedicated to his mission, a family man, well-known in the community, someone who leads with integrity, and a straightforward communicator.
Pastor Anderson credits Bishop H.J.
Echols as the person who had a profound impact on his life, saying, “He made the greatest impact on my life when he taught me about having a relationship with Christ versus merely attending church.”
In 2008, Pastor Anderson earned his Bachelor of Theology from the Christian Life School of Theology. While pursuing his degree, he founded Boys to Men, Inc. (BTM), a nonprofit civic organization for youth ages 818.
Pastor Anderson currently serves as President and Executive Director. Operating under the principle that “good information leads to good decisions,” BTM serves as the umbrella organization for Boys-to-Men and S.W.A.N.S., separate gender-specific groups created to expose local youth to new ideas, better information, and opportunities. Through these organizations, hundreds of young people in Ware and Pierce Counties have been positively impacted by Pastor Anderson’s tireless dedication for more than 17 years. When asked about the personal and professional values that have shaped him, Pastor Anderson shared: “My journey through life has been profoundly influenced by a set of core values that continue to shape who I am today, both personally and professionally. At the heart of my existence lies my relationship with the Lord, which forms the foundation of my character and guides my decisions.
“This spiritual connection has instilled in me a deep sense of purpose and a moral compass that directs my actions. Integral to my identity is a strong belief in integrity. This value manifests in my commitment to honesty, transparency, and ethical behavior in all aspects of my life.
“Whether in personal relationships or professional endeavors, I strive to uphold principles that reflect truth and honor. Living with integrity means making choices that align with my values, regardless of the circumstances.
“The courage to stand alone has also played a significant role in shaping my character. There have been moments when I had to make difficult decisions that went against the grain, forging my own path despite opposition or skepticism.
“This courage has empowered me to remain steadfast in my convictions and resilient in the face of challenges. A community service mindset has further enriched my life, fostering a sense of connectedness and responsibility toward others.
“Engaging in acts of service has not only allowed me to contribute positively to society, but has also deepened my understanding of compassion and empathy. This value motivates me to seek opportunities to give back and support those in need.
“Lastly, the pursuit of excellence and a commitment to doing things right underpin my approach to both work and life. Striving for excellence means consistently aiming for the highest standards and putting forth my best efforts in all that I do.
“This dedication to quality and precision ensures that I deliver exceptional results and take pride in my accomplishments. Together, these values have formed the bedrock of my personal and professional identity, driving me to live a life of purpose, integrity, courage, service, and excellence.”
Pastor Anderson’s commitment to community service is evident throughout our community. He has served on numerous committees and boards and has been recognized for his dedication to them. These include the YMCA Board of Directors, the Birthright Board, and the McKinney Community Health Center Board.
He is currently the President and CEO of the Edward “Bud” Newton Community Center in Patterson and serves on the RYDC Advisory Board.
His dedicated community service to Ware and Pierce Counties has earned him numerous awards, including the Martin Luther King Jr. Citizen of the Year Award in Pierce County, the Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Fund Award, the Delta Zeta Chapter Community Service Award, and recognition as Parade Marshal for the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Observance Day Parade in both Pierce and Ware Counties in 2017.
Pastor Anderson has been married to his wife, Mrs. Emily M. Anderson, for 54 years. They have been blessed with five children, nine grandchildren, two great-granddaughters, and many additional children and grandchildren they have embraced as family.
As you can see, Pastor Nathaniel J. Anderson, Jr. is truly deserving of being recognized as the recipient of the prestigious F.J. Beverly Beacon of Light Award.
