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After 40 years of dedicated service to his Lord and Savior and the congregation of Victory Baptist Church of Cooleemee, the Rev. Shelby Harbour will begin his retirement effective Nov. 14.

“Since his call to be pastor of Victory Baptist Church on Nov. 6, 1982, the Lord has used Rev. Harbour to not only shepherd the church, but also to be a servant-leader in the Cooleemee community and Davie County,” said Prscilla McCullough on behalf of fellow members.

Over the years, he has served as a board member of several local and regional organizations. He led the church through two building programs, the sending out of four preachers and two missionary families and has touched countless lives with the Gospel.

“He will be greatly missed, and we desire God´s continued richest blessings upon him and his wife, Ruth,” she said. “We love them both very much and thank God for them.”

Pastor Johnny Oceguera, who has been the associate pastor of the church for the past seven years, has been called to take over the role of senior pastor.