The NC Conference celebrated its retiring clergy during the 2026 Retiree Recognition Service on Friday, June 19, as part of Annual Conference at the Greenville Convention Center.

Earlier in the day, retirees gathered with family members, friends, and conference leaders for a special luncheon at noon in the Hilton Carolina Ballroom. The luncheon provided a time of fellowship and reflection before the afternoon recognition service.

The celebration opened with words of welcome from Rev. Donna Banks, Chair of the Board of Pension. Rev. Banks highlighted the sacrifice, time, and leadership demonstrated by this year’s retirees, recognizing the lives touched through their ministries and expressing gratitude for their faithful service.

Throughout the service, conference members joined in honoring the accomplishments and contributions of the retiring clergy. As each retiree was recognized, attendees were reminded of the varied ministries represented in this year’s class, including local church leadership and service to the wider church in making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.

One by one, Rev. Banks read the names of the retirees in appreciation of their years of faithful ministry. Each came forward on the stage to be congratulated by Bishop Shelton.

Near the end of the service, Bishop Connie Shelton invited conference attendees to extend their hands and join in prayer. The service concluded with a blessing for the retirees as they enter a new season of life and service.

The 2026 Class of Retirees:

Everette Bass
Connie Belmore
Donald Burns
Lisa Cole
Richard Cooper
Sue Eldon
David Hutchins
Jane Leechford
George Loveland
Hannah McManus
Jonathan Minnick
Roderic Mullen
Rosanna Panizo
Raymond Pearce
Elizabeth Polk
Richard Russell
Thomas Simpson
William Donald Warren
Julia Webb-Bowden

Article written by Geeta Goodwin
Photos by Suzanne Cobb