By Baptist Message staff
TIOGA, La. (LBM) – Friends, family and members of Tioga First Baptist Church gathered April 27 to honor long-time Pastor Tim Hisaw, who is retiring April 30.
Born in Jackson, Miss., and spending his grade school years in Huntsville, Ala., Hisaw’s spiritual journey began in 1972, when he accepted Christ and was baptized at Whitesburg Baptist Church.
But it was during a move to Lafayette — shortly before he began high school – he began pursuit his calling in ministry.
Longtime friend Steve Horn, Louisiana Baptist executive director, attended the retirement reception for Tim Hisaw, pastor with Tioga First Baptist Church. Brian Blackwell photo
Through the discipleship efforts of Lafayette pastors Perry Sanders and Mike Walker and other godly men and women, Hisaw eventually felt called to ministry while a freshman at the University of Southwestern Louisiana (now the University of Louisiana-Lafayette).
After earning a bachelor’s degree in psychology from USL and later a master’s degree from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, Hisaw served as youth minister at Bayou View Baptist Church, Gulfport, Miss. (86-89), First Baptist Church, Mansfield (89-92), Highland Baptist Church, New Iberia (92-99), The Bayou Church, Lafayette (99-2001) and Tioga FBC on May 15, 2005. He later became pastor on Jan. 11, 2009.
Those who attended the retirement reception for Tim Hisaw marked in a Bible their favorite verse and then signed their name next to it. Hisaw was then given the Bible.
“During my time as pastor, the church has loved Jesus, my family and the community,” Hisaw told the Baptist Message. “Among my favorite memories were being with the people through the blessings and burdens of life. Baptisms, graduations, weddings and bidding farewell to those who have gone to be with the Lord have brought satisfaction and joy on my ministry journey.”
Aside from Tioga FBC, Hisaw served as a member of the Baptist Message board of trustees, including president (2011-2017), Executive Board member (2018-2024), and North Rapides Baptist Association moderator (2013-2015).
Upon retirement, Hisaw plans to spend more time with his wife, Susie, and sons, John Winton (20), and Walker (16), and taking care of his 92-year-old mother, Sarah.
