Elkdale Baptist’s Anderson celebrates 50 years of ministry

Guy Anderson is the kind of guy who “can stand on the stage and lead a fancy music function but can also have coffee on the back porch with you.”

He’s talented musically — but caring for people is his hallmark, said Cory Horton, pastor of Elkdale Baptist Church, Selma.

“He’s the kind of guy who has a good story every time you meet him, the kind of guy who makes you laugh and smile,” Horton said.

And people from all across the state are celebrating Anderson on Jan. 23 at 2 p.m. at Elkdale Baptist, where he’s served in music ministry for 20 years. Because he hasn’t just served there — he’s served Alabama for more than 50 years in total.

Anderson said, “It’s been an honor and a privilege to serve the Lord and serve churches in worship development.”

A graduate of Samford University in Birmingham, Anderson was born and raised in First Baptist Church, Pleasant Grove, and served several churches in the Birmingham area before landing at First Baptist Church, Chalkville, for 19 years and then Elkdale.

He’s served state Baptists with music leadership at countless convention meetings, revivals and other events over the years. He also has sung with the Alabama Singing Men for about 30 years and has served as their president. His wife, Deborah, is involved too, serving as the accompanist for the Alabama Singing Women.

“The thing I treasure more than anything are those who have grown into music ministry themselves and are leaders,” Anderson said. “It kind of means you’ve passed the torch. Those are the kind of things that make you feel like the journey was definitely worth it.”