The Reverend Dwight Alexander Batts, Sr.

And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth:

Yea saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them.

~ Revelation 14:13

On Tuesday, March 7, 2023, at approximately 10:40 p.m., Dwight Alexander Batts, Sr., laid down his staff and stepped into glory to receive his crown of righteousness for a race well-run.

On May 21, 1951, the late Elder Frank M. and Mother Rubia Batts birthed their youngest son, Dwight Alexander Batts, Sr. in Halifax, North Carolina. He grew up on the “hill” off Little Lowground Road in Emporia where he learned the art of farming from his uncle, Namon. He attended the R.R. Moton School, Brink School, and Edward W. Wyatt High School. He participated in the Freedom of Choice Plan to integrate the local schools and graduated from Greensville County High School in 1970. While attending high school, he participated in track and field and gained the name “Antelope” because of his speed in running track.

After high school, Dwight relocated to Richmond and worked with family members to perfect the art of masonry and brickwork. After approximately ten (10) years he returned to Emporia and reunited with F. M. Batts and Son Masonry which consisted of his father, Frank Batts, Sr., and brother, Frank Batts, Jr. He perfected the art of masonry and gained the nickname of “Brick Doctor” because of his unique ability to create artwork out of stones, bricks, blocks, and stucco. The beauty of many homes in Greensville and Sussex counties, Petersburg, and nearby North Carolina was enhanced because of his creative skills. He continued in the masonry business until he later heeded the call of Shepherd. Dwight enjoyed immensely the fellowship of his family, particularly his uncles at family barbecues where he assisted in the cooking activities. He was known as mischievous, playful, and a jokester.

Dwight met and married Vanessa Anabelle Bridges on November 1, 1982. To this union, three children were born, Dwight Daniel, Brittany Alexandria, and Alexander Joshua. Dwight Daniel preceded him in death. He enjoyed fishing, riding a motorcycle, and riding his horse, Streaker. Before his illness, Pastor Batts and his wife Vanessa enjoyed riding together on the country roads of Greensville County and ending the trip with a visit to the local Chinese restaurant. She never had to worry about his thoughts regarding life because once he expressed his opinions and beliefs, he never changed.

At the age of 27, Elder Batts accepted Christ and joined the St. Paul Church Of God In Christ under the leadership of his father. He loved teaching and soon became a teacher for the Sunday School Department and the Young People Willing Workers also known as YPWW. He was later called into the ministry, became a licensed minister, and later a licensed Elder in the Church Of God In Christ. His father, Elder Frank Batts appointed him to assist in the furtherance of the ministry at the St. John Church Of God In Christ, Jarratt. He appointed him Pastor in October 2007. His Jurisdictional Bishop later appointed Elder Batts as Superintendent of the Southern District of the Fourth Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction of Virginia in September 2009. He was given emeritus status as Superintendent in 2016 when his health began to fail.

Pastor Batts received a troubling diagnosis about his health in 2014. His doctor limited his prognosis to five (5) years. Despite the diagnosis Supt. Batts fought valiantly and with great faith and the prayers of the saints, he continued to honor God despite his health. He held fast to the profession of his faith without wavering for he knew that God is faithful. He often encouraged others to continue in their faith and trust in the power of God. He especially appreciated the love and labor of his great-niece, Amber, who he affectionately referred to as Plum, who brought him comfort and care in his deepest hour of need.

Pastor Batts was an avid believer in the doctrine and teaching of the Church Of God In Christ. His life mirrored what he learned. He preached the Word as God led him and often gave his members a prophetic word as instructed by God. During his tenure as Pastor, Supt. Batts learned to submit to the will of God in becoming a leader of men. He encouraged all to “make their calling and election sure.” Even in his lowest hour, he was still speaking, “Get right with God and do it now, Get right with God, He will show you how; Down at the cross where He shed His blood, Get it right with God, Get right, get right with God.

Dwight leaves to forever cherish his memory: Vanessa, his wife of 40 years; son, D.J. (Jerusha), Sydney, Australia; daughter, Brittany, and son, Alexander aka Scooter (Emporia); granddaughter whom he raised as his own, Jayanna; grandchildren, Mia, Dwight Daniel, Jr., Aubrey, Lamar, and Delightful; brother Frank M. Batts, Jr. (Jeanette); sister, Rubia B. Johnson; sister-in-law, Rita Spence (Shelby); brothers-in-law, Vincent Bridges, and Melvin Mason; aunt, Rose Hill; nieces, Erica, Mariendia and Amber; nephews, Dexter, Mason, and Ty; a host of cousins, other relatives and friends and especially the St. John Church Of God In Christ Family.

Relatives and Friends are encouraged to visit The Reverend Batts' tribute wall to share memories, extend condolences and to order floral tributes, as sentiments to the family. 

The Management and Staff of Knox-High Mortuary, Inc. is privileged to provide

"Distinctive Services, With The Essence Of Excellence"

to the family of The Reverend Dwight Alexander Batts, Sr.

We ask that you join us in remembering the family in both thought and prayer. 

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