Sunday service wasn’t the same at Galilee Missionary Baptist Church.
“It was tough for us,” Chairman of Deacons Robert Williams said.
Pastor Shawn Thomas wasn’t there to preach.
He died Friday after drowning in an effort to recover his capsized boat in Lake Seminole, according to the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office.
Those who knew him said he inspired many, including members from his church and throughout the St. Petersburg community.
“God put a man here who was so far ahead of his time that he was able to take people with no hope and bring hope,” Williams said.
Mayor Ken Welch wrote on Facebook stating:
“The passing of Pastor Dr. Shawn Thomas is a painful loss that exceeds our understanding. His work in the ministry, education, and our community has touched countless lives, including my family’s.”
Williams, who has known Thomas as a child, said he had a gift when it came to preaching. He did it with purpose and knew how to make people understand the importance of his words.
“He was able to get a message across to them where they can clearly understand that God is love and he was just spreading his love,” Williams said.
