HOPKINSVILLE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – After a unanimous vote from the city council Tuesday night, Quarry Street in Hopkinsville has been renamed in honor of 82-year-old Pastor Charles E. Timberlake. The street runs through First Street Baptist Church and their properties, which is where Pastor Timberlake has served the community for 39 years.

“We know he is more than deserving,” Charles Jago, a deacon with the church told Christian County Now. “It’s more than an honor to be able to do that for him.”

Jago, along with Thomas Grant and Kenneth Thompkins decided to begin the process of renaming the street for Pastor Timberlake’s 40th anniversary coming up with the church. After hearing the news, they said Timberlake was elated and honored.

“We like to honor our elders,” said Grant. “We like to give them their flowers while they can still smell them.”

Ward one City Council member Natasha Francis, who is also a member of the church was a key player in getting the ball rolling. She set up necessary meetings to get the ordinance on the Committee of a Whole agenda. The church was able to maneuver the long process that goes into passing an ordinance, and make it happen quickly with Ordinance 08-2024 passing every vote.

Establishing a legacy

They describe Pastor Timberlake as a dedicated family man that is well known in the community and throughout the region. In addition to his work during church services, he has established multiple ministries in the area including the Good Samaritan Ministry. During the church’s 125 years, they’ve only seen five pastors, so his impact on the church is significant.

Grant and the others agreed that Pastor CE Timberlake Way will act as a landmark for his legacy for years to come. Since Pastor Timberlake lives across the street from the church, the signs will serve as a daily reminder of the love from the city.

While there is currently no set date on when the signs will be changed, the church is planning to host an unveiling ceremony with food and fellowship for the community.

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