A beloved figure in the Southern Baptist Convention, Steve Gaines, has entered hospice care. The news arrived in a letter to the congregation of Bellevue Baptist Church in Tennessee, where he served as pastor after disclosing a diagnosis of kidney cancer in 2023.
Those who knew him speak of a life dedicated to faith and service. Pastor Ben Mandrell of Bellevue Baptist described Gaines as a faithful shepherd, a mentor, and a friend to countless individuals over the years, urging the church to lift him and his family in prayer.
Even as his health declined, Gaines demonstrated remarkable grace and foresight. In 2024, he announced a planned transition away from the pastorate, a decision he emphasized was separate from his ongoing battle with cancer, signaling a desire to prepare for the future.
Gaines’ ministry extended beyond Bellevue. For fourteen years, he led Gardendale First Baptist Church in Alabama, leaving an indelible mark on the community. The church expressed profound sadness upon learning of his hospice placement, recalling the transformative impact of his and his wife Donna’s ministry.
The outpouring of support reflects the breadth of his influence. Gardendale First Baptist’s message requested privacy for the family during this difficult time, while simultaneously inviting prayers for comfort, grace, and peace.
Before focusing on pastoral care, Gaines rose to prominence within the Southern Baptist Convention itself. He was elected president in June 2016 and served with distinction, earning a second term in 2017, a testament to the respect and trust he garnered from fellow leaders.
His legacy isn’t defined by titles or positions, but by the lives he touched. Gaines’ journey, marked by unwavering faith and dedicated service, continues to inspire those who knew him and those who benefited from his leadership.
