pastor donnie thurman jr.

Rev. Donnie Thurman, Jr. is a native of Shelby, North Carolina, and has devoted his life to service, leadership, and ministry. He is married to Rachin Thurman, a chemist at Nippon Electric Glass, and together they are deeply rooted in faith, family, and community.

A graduate of Crest High School and Gardner-Webb University, Rev. Thurman earned a Bachelor of Science in Human Services. While at Gardner-Webb, he was a dedicated student-athlete and a four-year letterman on the football team from 2001–2004. He was a member of two Big South Conference Championship teams, an experience that helped shape his discipline, teamwork, and leadership skills.

Beyond athletics, Rev. Thurman is a nationally recognized motivational speaker. Since 2004, he has delivered workshops, trainings, and keynote messages to organizations across the country, reaching nearly one million youth through schools, churches, and community organizations. He also serves as a Director for the Broyhill Leadership Conference, a program established by Tomorrow’s America Foundation, where he continues to invest in developing future leaders.

Rev. Thurman was ordained into the ministry in 2012 and has faithfully served as Youth Pastor and Assistant Pastor at Palmer Grove Baptist Church. He is grateful for the opportunity to minister under the leadership and mentorship of Rev. James L. Smith and has a deep passion for preaching, teaching, and empowering others through the Word of God.

In addition to ministry, Rev. Thurman has an extensive background in public service and organizational leadership. In 2013, he became the youngest person in Cleveland County history to be elected to the Cleveland County School Board and one of the youngest elected officials to serve in North Carolina. Although his term concluded in 2017, he remains actively involved in supporting and advocating for local schools and youth.

Professionally, Rev. Thurman joined Holy Angels in Belmont, North Carolina, in February 2017 as Volunteer Services Manager. He was promoted in August 2018 to Director of Workforce and Volunteer Engagement, where he focused on staff development, training, and creating systems that fostered a positive and supportive work environment. In May 2019, he was promoted to Vice President of Human Resources, further expanding his impact through leadership, organizational development, and service.

Rev. Thurman’s life and ministry reflect a commitment to faith, leadership, service, and community—guided by a heart for people and a calling to make a lasting difference.