Asbury Theological Seminary
Fred Millsaps
Within each testimony of salvation in Jesus Christ, there lies a story. For many, this story involves a moment of reckoning; for others, a prayer of desperation. But for all, there lies a story of a person who was faithful to share and model the Message of Jesus Christ.
For Fred Millsaps, a partner with Asbury Theological Seminary, the story of his father, Sam Millsaps inspires his faith and financial stewardship today.
Born in 1894 in a log cabin in Georgia, Sam Millsaps learned at a young age the importance of responsibility. As a young adult, he experienced the death of his father and from then on, was considered “the man of the family.” Working at the family farm and a mechanic at two textile mills, Sam worked hard to provide for his mother and two younger sisters, and continued to do so when he became an engineer in the Army Corps of Engineers during World War 1.
After returning from war, Sam married Ora Lee Bradshaw, and together, they dedicated their lives to the ministry of the Gospel of Christ. Education was of utmost importance to both of them, and as their children, Howard, Fred and Mildred, grew, seeing their parents reading and studying for classes was an everyday occurrence.
Remembering his parents’ commitment to education, Fred states, “In reality, their education never ended, with both Sam and Ora Lee devoting considerable time to reading and studying together throughout their lifetime…As part of their ministry throughout the years, they assisted numerous young people in getting scholarships and otherwise, making housing and travel arrangements to further their education.”
As a licensed preacher, Sam followed in his ancestors’ footsteps, serving the Lord in the southeastern United States. Sam and Ora Lee decided together that their ministry would be in the hills and towns of North Georgia, and Fred remarks that, “There, they enjoyed Sam’s reputation as one of Georgia’s most outstanding ‘country preachers.’”
Sam Millsaps’ story is a fundamental part of his son’s journey as a believer of Christ. And by choosing to partner with Asbury Theological Seminary, Fred honors his father’s faith and can be certain that graduates from Asbury will impact the lives of future believers as well. Being a donor is not just about giving. It’s about being a part of the Story. And through the faithful witness of men like Sam and many like him, the Story gets even better.