Rev. Rufus James Wingate

                 Reverend Rufus James Wingate

of Atmore, Alabama, age 95, born on December 15, 1927 transitioned on Thursday March 9, 2023.

He confessed Christ at an early age and joined the Triumph Baptist Church where he grew and was nurtured.

He was educated in the public school system in Atmore, Alabama. After attending school, Rufus Wingate served in the U.S. Navy.  When his service obligation was complete, he then moved to New, York state.  While living in New York he worked several jobs including security and becoming a dedicated painter.  He later moved back to Atmore, Alabama after accepting the call to become a pastor.  He pastored the Dulaney AME and Pine Level AME churches.  In his latter years he returned to the Baptist Church and became an associate pastor of Mt. Gillead Missionary Baptist Church.

He was preceded in death by his parents William J. Wingate, Nellie Mae George and Willie (Bubba) George and his niece Lydia Toomer.

He leaves to cherish his memory three children Emery (Naomi) Scarbrough, (Phenix City, Alabama); Tracy (Horace) Walker, (Pleasant Grove, Alabama); and Michael (April) Mathis, (Vineland, New Jersey); and one sister Agnes Toomer, (Jamaica, New York). The blessings of his children produced 37 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren.

Servant of God well done,

Rest from thy love employ

The battle is fought, the victory is won

Enter thy Master’s joy