How His Protection Fueled My Deepening Love

Met in June 1965 at Emmanuel Temple Holiness Church in Birmingham, Jimmie was captivated by 10-year-old Deborah's beauty and demeanor. “I knew then she was the one,” he remarked. Although 11-year-old Jimmie displayed a lively spirit, Deborah, still a child, found him cute yet reserved. Their friendship blossomed during church outings, with Jimmie recalling their first “date” at the fair in 1967, winning her a bear. However, their official first date was in 1971 at a local steakhouse after Jimmie’s six-month stint in New York. By 1974, Jimmie proposed at a church dinner. “I wanted to make it official,” he said, to which Deborah joyfully replied, “yes.” They wed at Faith Apostolic Church, noting their wedding day weather reflected an old saying. Now, Jimmie leads Now Faith Empowerment Temple while Deborah enjoys family life. Their enduring love story serves as a beacon for future generations.