FROM THE pulpit, Devron Holman, the associate pastor for Mt. Sinai Missionary Baptist Church, preaches with passion and conviction. His words are like a soothing balm for the weary soul as he ministers to the broken-hearted and the lost, offering hope and healing in the name of Jesus. His spirit is ablaze with the fire of conviction. After he leaves his office or his place on the pulpit, Holman receives divine confirmation that he has found his true calling — a calling to serve, to lead, and to inspire. But Holman’s purpose extends beyond the church building, reaching into the heart of Franklin County, helping the pastor lead organizational and community-wide events. Ever since his earlier years, he walked the streets of his community and saw some faces of his neighbors — some struggling, marginalized, and forgotten. And with each passing day, his determination to make change grew stronger, and his commitment to social justice was steadfast.
Patricia J. Nimox, a single mother, raised her seven children, Devron Holman among them, in a God-fearing household. Living in a one-parent household couldn’t dim their light and profound faith in God. Holman, the third eldest, looked up to his mother, watching her navigate single parenthood with wonder and admiration.
“Being the oldest of 12 siblings, it was just remarkable for me to witness that,” Holman said. “I’ve always drawn my strengths from her. She molded me. My mom is my biggest motivation.”
The melodies of gospel music rang through their home. It was a haven of warmth and love amidst the chill of poverty and hardship. Nimox, with her blessed hands and encouraging smile, was the beating heart of their humble abode — a ray of hope for her children in a world fraught with adversity.
Holman’s path led him to the Marines. Here, he learned discipline, courage, and sacrifice, and his faith remained a steady anchor. He emerged a leader, his courage and compassion a beacon for his fellow Marines.
“The military has taught me a lot,” he reflected. “The discipline it takes to be successful, the consistency, the ability to be fair toward people in spite of where they come from — it allowed me to see what success looks like. My mom and the military really set me up to influence others.”
One of Holman’s biggest challenges was overcoming the loss of service members under his command.
“That was probably the heaviest challenge,” he shared. “But my relationship with Christ definitely helped keep me grounded.”
Even after retiring from the Marines after 26 years, his impact on those he served continues to resonate.
“I’ve been retired 11 years, but I’m still getting phone calls from service members who served underneath my leadership, and that just motivates me to the highest level,” he said.
After retiring, Holman returned to Franklin County, where he found a new calling at Mt. Sinai Missionary Baptist Church. As an associate pastor, he embraces his role with humility and conviction, offering hope and healing through his words and actions. For Holman, the church and the broader community are simply an extension of his family. He sows seeds of inspiration, love, and care with each encounter.
“It allows me to be a part of the family of Christ,” he explained. “Our hearts are for the people; our hearts are for God.”
Every Sunday morning, the congregation gathers at 132 Walnut St. in Cowan.
With heads bowed and hearts lifted, they give thanks for their blessings, finding rest in their faith.
Holman and his biological and church families have become champions of change in the community, advocating for social justice and equality.
“The most fulfilling moments are when people reach out to me, ask me questions, or ask for prayer,” he said. “It reminds me that people know there’s a God out there.”
From mentoring to advocating, he works tirelessly to break down barriers and build bridges, uplift the oppressed, and empower the disenfranchised.
“Regardless of how much I know, it won’t do me any good if I’m holding on to it for myself. But I can distribute that knowledge to any and everybody that I want to and still not lose a thing.”
For young people chasing their dreams, especially young people from minority groups, Holman has this advice: “Be careful who you surround yourself with. Dreams do come true, but we have to be active in making them happen. Put in the work, commit yourself to the right people, and trust the process.”
Holman’s dream for Franklin County is to be a place where opportunity is available to all.
“I hope that Franklin County continues to level the playing field by allowing quality and qualified minorities a fair chance to display their capabilities, accomplishments, and experiences,” he said. “There are a lot of people out there who have a lot to offer.” GN